Ras G Postcard

Description

Ras G Postcard

Gouache and linoprint on paper.
Format A6, 250g/m2.
Open edition, signed and numbered.
Carved and printed by hand with love and respect.

Ras G (1979–2019) was an experimental producer, DJ, and beatmaker who played a crucial role in the Los Angeles beat scene. Known for his cosmic, Afro-futuristic sound, Ras G blended hip-hop, jazz, dub, and electronic music into an otherworldly sonic experience. His work, often associated with the Brainfeeder collective, reflected a deep connection to Sun Ra’s cosmic philosophy and the raw energy of underground hip-hop.

Born Gregory Shorter Jr. in Los Angeles, Ras G was heavily influenced by the city’s rich musical landscape. He absorbed elements of jazz, funk, and reggae, shaping a signature production style that incorporated heavy bass, distorted textures, and spacey, psychedelic effects. Using samplers like the SP-404 and MPC, he crafted beats that felt both ancient and futuristic, channeling the spirit of free jazz pioneers and dub sound systems alike.

A key figure in the Low End Theory scene, Ras G’s music pushed boundaries, embracing lo-fi aesthetics, abstract rhythms, and deep, hypnotic grooves. Albums like Brotha From Anotha Planet, Ghetto Sci-Fi, and Raw Fruit series showcased his unfiltered creativity, layering dusty vinyl samples with booming drum patterns and cosmic soundscapes. His sound was meditative yet raw, often infused with themes of Black liberation, space travel, and Afrofuturism.

Beyond his music, Ras G was a mentor and guiding force in the beat community, inspiring countless artists with his independent, DIY approach. His work reflected a spiritual journey, exploring sound as a vehicle for elevation and escape.

Ras G passed away in 2019, but his influence on experimental hip-hop and electronic music remains profound. His visionary approach to beat-making continues to inspire producers seeking to push the boundaries of sound and creativity.