ASON

9.2

Songwriting

9.0/10

Technical Execution

9.5/10

Audio Production

9.5/10

Song Variety

9.0/10

Enjoyment

9.0/10

Check Out ASON

I’m always looking for new hip-hop artists I haven’t heard of, and I recently stumbled upon Ason. When you listen to his music with awareness, you can hear his development as an artist, and his recent single, “God Mode,” will show you that he’s a new music artist worth hearing.

Check out this clip of “God Mode:

Who is Ason?

Ason Leaux is a South African artist based in Johannesburg. When most Americans think of South African rap, Die Antwoord comes to mind. While Ason has established his lyricism through his various singles and 2018 album “Leaux,” that’s about as far as the comparison between these two hip-hop artists goes.

For those familiar with South African hip hop, Ason’s music is slightly reminiscent of Cassper Nyovest’s popular hits “Baby Girl” and “Move for Me.” Although Ason captures the smooth, laid-back vibes of this famous South African rapper, his hip-hop style is markedly American.

Ason debuted his voice in 2012 on Soundcloud with “The Vent (Closer to My Dreams Remix),” where his sound is noticeably different than what he gives listeners in 2020. Inspired by and based on Drake’s “Closer to My Dreams,” Ason’s first song is telling of two key things. He’s been producing music from a young age, and his lyrical flow comes naturally. It also reveals that his distinctly American sound likely arose out of popular American influences like Drake.

If you listen through his early music on Soundcloud, it’s easy to see how this new artist evolved through the years into what he is today. And we can expect that his style will continue to evolve as he continues to grow as an artist.

Album Highlight: Leaux

Leaux is Ason’s one and only album so far. With nine songs that play for 39 minutes total, Leaux strikes me as the perfect relaxed party album. Most of the songs sound fairly similar, with chill beats underneath sedated and autotuned vocals, creating relaxed vibes for hip-hop listeners.

One of the most engaging songs on Leaux is “Flick,” an anthem for a lifestyle of luxury and leisure. 

Song Highlight: “God Mode feat. Reason”

Ason released “God Mode” in 2020, displaying a matured style and voice that reflects immense growth since his humble beginnings in 2012. In fact, in “God Mode,” Ason reflects on his personal, professional, and spiritual journey.

He explores themes of death, loss, growth, development, and faith. For Ason, “God Mode” is a way of explaining a world view that is at once thankful and hungry for more.

Listen to the full song on YouTube here, accompanied by the official music video.

If you’re interested in listening to more Ason, check him out on:

• YouTube
• Soundcloud
• Apple Music
• Spotify

To keep up with Ason, follow him on:

• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram