Heems :- Himanshu Kumar Suri, widely known as Heems, is not just an American rapper; he is a force of creative energy that has transcended the boundaries of conventional hip-hop. Born on July 6, 1985, in Bellerose, Queens, New York, Heems’ life journey reads like a rhythmic odyssey, filled with beats of resilience, activism, and artistic exploration.
Heems – Das Racist and the Internet Breakthrough
In 2008, Heems joined forces with his college friend Victor Vazquez, aka Kool A.D., to form Das Racist, a groundbreaking alternative hip-hop group. Their 2008 track “Combination Pizza Hut and Taco Bell” became an internet sensation, catapulting them into the spotlight.
The group’s mixtapes, “Shut Up, Dude” and “Sit Down, Man,” not only garnered critical acclaim but also established Das Racist as a powerhouse in the underground rap scene.
Solo Ventures and Global Impact of Heems
Himanshu, however, didn’t stop at Das Racist. His solo career took flight with the release of mixtapes like “Nehru Jackets” and “Wild Water Kingdom.” These projects showcased his versatility, featuring collaborations with artists like Childish Gambino and Danny Brown.
The success of his solo endeavours paved the way for his debut album, “Eat Pray Thug,” released in 2015. Recorded in Bombay and Brooklyn, the album echoed Heems’ unique perspective, earning praise for its innovation and social commentary.
Greedhead Music: Nurturing Artistic Independence
Not content with just making music, Heems founded Greedhead Music in 2008, not only as a platform for Das Racist but also as an independent record label nurturing emerging talents. Greedhead has since released a spectrum of projects, from Kool A.D.’s “The Palm Wine Drinkard” to Lakutis’ “I’m in the Forest,” solidifying Heems’ commitment to artistic independence.
A Man of Many Causes: Activism Beyond Music
Himanshu extends his influence beyond the music realm through activism. As a board member of SEVA NY, a Queens-based community organization, he works towards empowering the South Asian community. From advocating for equitable redistricting to supporting political candidates, Heems uses his platform to amplify the voices of the marginalized.
Art, Film, and Twitter: A Multifaceted Maestro
Himanshu is not confined to the studio; his engagement with the art scene is profound. From performing at the Whitney Museum of American Art to curating exhibitions, he seamlessly blends music with other forms of artistic expression. He has also ventured into film, making appearances in documentaries and short films, showcasing his versatility and creativity on the big screen.
Twitter Trailblazer and Discography Dynamo
On Twitter, Himanshu is not just a rapper; he is a voice against prejudice. His collection and retweeting of racist tweets post-Osama bin Laden’s death highlighted the prevalence of xenophobia. Named #11 on Rolling Stone’s list of “50 Top Tweeters in Music,” Heems uses his online presence to spark conversations beyond the beats and melodies.
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