About Me
We all know the routine; under blazing bright lights and wildly exaggerated publicity, the music industry rolls out the 'Next Big Thing.' Whilst many unfortunately fade into inevitable obscurity, some prove their mettle and become ensconced in the hearts of the music fans worldwide. Ash with his outstanding voice, perceptive lyrics and infectious melodies is firmly in the latter category. Abdul Sammir Hamman, or just Ash to his friends is one of those rare artists that appeals to all ages, genres and tastes. He treads the fine line between cutting-edge verve and all encompassing appeal, embracing pop and hip-hop whilst retaining his R&B roots. With an astonishing voice far belying his tender years and an impeccable ear for melody,singer, songwriter, dancer and entrepreneur from North London brings a breath of fresh air to the UK music scene. Ash also owns his own entertainment company shrewdly titled 'Immaqul'8 Entertainment' (pronounced immaculate). Ash came to the attention of the music scene back in 2003 with the Booker T revamp of his club smash Bounce 2 This which reached top 20 in the national charts whilst retaining the number 1 spot on the UK Garage and Club charts for weeks. The massive success of Bounce 2 This continued through to his birth town of Lagos, Nigeria, a place that is still close to Ash's heart. Having being born into a family of strong music lovers and ex-military soul-singing father, the young singer has been surrounded by music since birth. One specific childhood memory still remains fresh in Ash's mind; I remember my mother telling me that she used to think that I was very strange! Ash recalls. From the age of about 4 months, I would be dancing and moving even without music whilst asleep and she couldn't figure out why!' I was born to do this'. He continues. Although a Nigerian, Ash lived in America for a while and it was here that his love for hip-hop grew stronger. My roots are in London, this is where I schooled and gained qualifications in music technology and sound production, this is where I started performing professionally and this is where my heart it explains Ash. With his own original music, beats and vision Ash felt the time was right to step up to the arena and began entering local talent competitions, which he won outright time after time. On one particular night in 2003, Ash was spotted by the organisers of the Miss World Contest and was asked to perform live at the grand final at London's Alexander Palace. This was an opportunity that could not be missed! With only 3 days to prepare, Ash gave the performance of his life in front of celebrities, the world's media, oh and over a worldwide viewing audience of 700 million people! Following the success of his stint at The Miss World Contest, Ash was then personally asked by R&B superstar Usher to open for him during his tour of Nigeria. This time round, Ash has even bigger plans. I'm taking this to the next level this time round. Having come out of a bad management contract, I'm a lot wiser now. I'm doing it my way this time, the IMMAQUL'8 way, Its like a re-birth he states. Watch out Ash is unique, credible, talented, enigmatic and 100% ready to make this happen. He's a real force to be reckoned with. Ash will be releasing his single title Keep Doin' It (Girl) on XX and performing PA's and showcases throughout the UK.
