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Akeem Oh is an American-Canadian indie-pop artist based primarily in Toronto, Canada, with his origins tracing back to Philadelphia, PA, where he was born. His life took a significant turn when he was adopted by a warm Canadian family and grew up nestled in Northern Ontario's picturesque landscapes.
Raised in Mattawa ON, life was easy in his home, where comfort and the sound of his parent's turntable enveloped him with warm embrace. Yet beyond the familiar walls, the harsh realities of the world awaited, presenting challenges that tested his resilience. It was amidst struggles of racial bullying that Akeem discovered the music of The Beatles, Michael Jackson and The Beach Boys. With a deep-seated need for self-expression, Akeem found solace in the art of songwriting, a cathartic outlet for his innermost thoughts and emotions.
Starting as a promising talent in the French Canadian music scene, Akeem Oh's journey gained momentum when he clinched the prestigious APCM prize at the Ontario Pop Music Showcase at a tender age of 17. His musical prowess and ambition led him to a significant milestones - one being featured on the popular musical TV show JAM on TFO, catapulting him to perform at Les Francos Festival in Montreal, QC before an audience of over 10,000.
Transitioning to Ottawa, ON in 2012, Akeem Oh focused on sharing his music with the world. Despite sharing his musical gifts since his childhood and high school years, it wasn't until 2018 that he released his first official single, "Winter Crush," which received glowing reviews, earning it a spot in CBC's list of "Top 3 New Ontario Songs You Need To Hear." The subsequent release of his second single, "School Girl," further showcased Akeem Oh's versatility as a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer.
With the unveiling of a music video for "Winter Crush," a stellar performance at the Megaphono Festival Showcase titled "Akeem Oh: Live at the Record Centre" in May 2021, and a sold out show at Canada's National Arts Centre, Akeem's musical journey continued to captivate audiences. His musical evolution saw the release of an expanded "School Girl" EP in December 2023. This conceptual collection of songs came from Akeem's growing need to create a sonic universe for his music.
Alongside more sold-out performances and multiple TV appearances in 2023, Oh partnered with Mayfly Audio to create a special limited edition VoxBox vocal pedal. Oh played an integral role in crafting this innovative pedal, which showcases a unique design contributed by his friend, Pearly Water. Recently, Oh featured on the track "Motema" by Kimya (February 2024).
Akeem Oh's music delves deep into an exploration of various themes that resonate with the human experience. His melodies and lyrics intricately weave together reflections on growth, a profound longing for authentic connections, and a continual search for a place to call home amidst the myriad landscapes where he has undergone personal development. Through his artistry, Akeem Oh crafts a nostalgic ambiance that feels familiar yet rejuvenated, providing listeners with a fresh and enduring musical journey. Each note and every word in his compositions carry the weight of introspection, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of emotions and memories, ultimately culminating in a deeply resonant and unforgettable listening experience.
Having just moved to Toronto ON, upcoming music is slated for release in the spring of 2024.
