Producer, Engineer, Composer, Arranger, Writer and Performer: Richard “Ras†Mason is recognized among the greatest as a genius for instrumental combinations, engineering techniques, improvisation, and musical arrangement; bringing to the world, the unique collaborative sound that is found within him. "I don't consider myself a producer, artists, engineer or any of that, specifically. I'm just in the business of artistic creation." he says.
Although widely associated with the Reggae/Hip-Hop/R&B styles of music, Ras Mason isn't attached to any particular style. He has moved from one genre to another, constantly challenging himself, his fellow musicians, and the listening audience. Part of this may be due to his education, beginning Violin studies at the age of 8 and furthering his studies with Saxophone and Bass Guitar by the age of 14. He later taught himself chord structure and harmony at the piano and further strengthened his position in the industry; becoming one of the few "Certified" Pro Tools Engineers in the world.
Ras Mason began music professionally in Washington, D.C. in 1985--his birth place. Vocalists like Luther Vandross, Bob Marley, Donny Hathaway, Third World and Frankie Beverly influenced his earlier vocal technique. Later vocalists like Danglin, Tyrese, Jah Mason, Akon, Jah Cure and Luciano added to those influences--to name a few. He first toured Japan in 1989 and later began performing and recording with famed, Japan rap group M.K. FRESH in 1991. The group worked with DJ IKE and DJ KID CAPRI, with whom he recorded the album "INTRUDING ON A MINE FIELD, AVEX TRAX, Japan".
Ras Mason then became A Leader in his profession. He created many groups and performed with various musicians and vocal groups until he created "COLLABORATION". This group would hit all of the major spots in Asia and eventually perform as background vocalists for artist MARIAH CAREY of Sony Recordings, performing in locations the likes of Tokyo Dome, Japan.
Ras Mason brings a level of style and sophistication to music that it hasn't seen before. Although he is a gifted vocalist, his musical compositions, arrangements, productions and engineering have been his principal voice to the world. "I'm ALWAYS seeking the soul of the song and to bring "IT" out in the music and vocals--my own vocals or another's." he says.
In his career, Ras Mason has produced numerous professionally released singles and albums, including his own solo album, Come Up To My Room and many others. Ras Mason currently works closely with many major artists including Reggasoul sensation, Danglin, who is also Ras Mason's label mate, business partner and long time friend. The ability to adapt and grow with the times has made Ras Mason's sound a major force in the musical industry.
Personal Favorites:
MY MIXI, Japan (Members Only (Sorry)
REBEL SOULZ (Official Myspace)
DANGLIN (Official Myspace)
Member Since: 8/31/2006
Band Website: rebelsoulpro.com
Record Label: REBEL SOUL PRO
Type of Label: Indie