Arqese

Arqese (Wizdom) understanding for the trials and tribulations of troubled youth is fortified by first hand experience. The honesty and compassion that finds its way into his art is home grown. He is a veteran of a generation under fire with a story to tell. Seemingly destined for a life of crime and misdemeanors, it was the intervention of a caring grandmother and a visionary stranger (and now lifelong friend, Carolyn Robertson,) in Anchorage, Alaska; as well as the warmth and wisdom of a loving, musical family headed by Pete and Juanita Escovedo (the parents of Sheila E) that set his feet firmly on the path of righteousness and spiritual revelation through music. Having survived life events that would have dismayed a lesser soul, from threats by the KKK to an education and promising basketball career disrupted by scandal, Arqese biography reads like a movie script, replete with ruthless villains, chase scenes, betrayals, close calls and - ultimately - the answer to his prayers. Arqeses music began to take on a more socially-conscious and positive direction, and his life was transformed in the process. From the dark night of the soul came a new man with a mission to continue work begun as a leader in Youth Centers and The Boys and Girls Clubs in Anchorage, Alaska to the Bay Area. Alone at the piano in a darkened cafeteria one evening, he unburdened his soul and asked for answers and direction. He heard the "call" and, reborn in spirit, his path was made clear. The conversion from angry, alienated youth to leader of a new music movement Today, Airick Arqese continues his work as a writer, producer, performer, and CEO of Powered by Christ Entertainment. This new company is already making a difference in the music industry, as well in God's ministry. On the front line, empowered by a vision for change and the love of God, Wizdom sees himself as a survivor of the war on youth and a commander of a vanguard for uplift, self-love and community spirit. From his counseling field work with children categorized as abused, abandoned, and severely emotionally disturbed, to musical therapy at juvenile halls, to his various church performances as Christside Souljahz, this music welcomes seemingly unreachable youth to catch the spirit at the altar and the streets. Arqeses mission is the victory song of a life that has transcended pain. And this non-judgmental, clarifying and brave music is the sound his audience has been waiting for. He is currently producing songs for "America's Next Top Model" along with several albums.