FOCUSED

A native of Imo State, Nigeria, Anthony "Tonestar" Igbozulike, has already made it known that his legacy is here to stay. With attention-grabbing performances in Nigeria and Washington DC metropolitan area, it's no secret that this artist has great horizons ahead. At the tender age of 22, Tonestar was opening shows for famous artists including Rick Ross, Faze and Dbanj. Tonestar started rapping at the early age of ten years old. Tonestar's career has been blooming in America, though his roots remain in Nigeria. Raised by uncles that sang and played instruments, cousins that rapped, and friends that listened to music non-stop, it was only natural for Tonestar to develop a passion for music production and performance. Seamlessly, he crafts a blend of both African and American cultures which makes his work unforgettable. Flowing and rocking to Hip-Hop beats with African lyrics and rhythm, he indulges in what is popularly known as Afro-Hip-Hop. One of the most sought after Afro Hip-Hop artists on the east coast of the United States, his work with many local artists from the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area now leaves him yearning for exposure in countries abroad, specifically Africa and Europe. Tonestar produces original studio music on his independent label and has had the opportunity to perform with artists include Plies, Rick Ross, Tabi Boney, and Gorilla Zo, just to name a few. He is also an avid of supporter of music by Osinachi, Kal of Kal Productions, Biz Markie, D Cha, Mya, Gibson Cash of Konvict music, and DC's own, Wale. His influences include Nas, Common, Jay Z, Tuface and Dbanj. With his love for Afro Hip-Hop, Tonestar plans to take the world by storm; expressing his experiences and challenges through his lyrics. When asked what makes him different from other artists, he replied, "I want to bring the world art that people can relate to and also accept. My greatest motivation is reaching my audience in ways other artists might be afraid to do." "Follow your dreams and what you believe in and don't let anyone tell you, you can't do it," is a quote that Tonestar developed and lives by daily. This affirmation also serves as his motivation to help open doors for other African artists who are aspiring to similar heights. Tribe X Entertainment, winner of the NEA Award for Best U.S. Based Promoter 2008, is proud to work as Tonestar's management group. Tonestar myspace :www.myspace.com/tonestar202 Nekpen Osuan; Tribe X Entertainment, PR nekpen20@yahoo.com, Abi "Omosexy" Adeoye; Tribe X Entertainment Booking and Management badeoye@umd.edu,