For Ahwlee, (pronounced Ali) inspiration can be found anywhere. Born in Long Beach, California with stints spent in Nashville, Tennessee and Flint, Michigan, the art of his craft lies combining dissimilar elements—such as The Delfonics, The Bernie Mac Show and America’s “Red Summer” of 1919—and creating a cohesive sound that taps into listeners’ collective unconscious. “It’s not exactly the beat I’m looking for when I produce,” Ahwlee says. “You just want that feeling of creating. You’re taking something from inside you and creating something physical.” As a self-taught musician, producer and DJ, Ahwlee has navigated the digital era providing his own brand of surrealism in audio form. Equal parts Soul and lo-fi, his music blends live instrumentation and textured samples into a sonic palette that resonates with the listener regardless of the format. To date, Ahwlee has released upwards of 20 solo projects and works with diverse host of collaborators. In 2013, Ahwlee expanded his annual Christmas offering by partnering with mndsgn for A Rap Vacation X-Mas, and his credits also include “Reginald,” from Mick Jenkins’ 2018 project, Pieces of a Man. Ahwlee is also co-founder and one half of the Los Angeles-based duo B. Cool-Aid along with Pink Siifu. The pair released their 2017 debut, BRWN, earning praise from listeners, industry peers and subsequently embarked on European tour.