Kustoo

Hailing from California, KU a.k.a. Kustoo (pronounced koo-sto), has been influenced by legendary west-coast Hip-Hop groups like Tha Alcoholiks and Ice Cube, as well as east-coast favorites like Grand Daddy I.U., Run DMC, and Jay Z.

With what was one of the most influential independent releases of 2007, Park Bench Entertainment in conjunction with Black Coffee Entertainment, presented Before The Hype, the debut release from Los Angeles area rapper KU. Unlike traditional Los Angeles based hip-hop, KU (pronounced Kay-you) brings a more stylized, yet commercially viable product to the West Coast sound. KU's amazing voice coupled with pulsating production from some of Los Angeles' hottest up-and-coming producers make Before The Hype an album that keeps your heads bouncing and hands waving for a long time.

KU will soon appear in the upcoming movie Walk Hard starring John C. Riley where he plays the role of Lil Nutzzack. In addition to the role of Lil Nutzzack, KU was also contributed to the soundtrack for the movie. KU has placed music in several television shows, feature films, video games, and commercials over the past 2 years. In addition, KU has provided his services to Hollywood in the form of a hip-hop consultant/coach for the upcoming film DrillBit Taylor starring Owen Wilson scheduled to be released in March 2008.

Born and raised in Pacoima, a small city right outside of Los Angeles, KU is no stranger to the lifestyle typically portrayed in West Coast hip-hop music. In fact, in songs like "Piece Of Da Boy," "Hold Up," and "Provider," KU shows us the grittier side of life in Pacoima. However, it's KU's ability to take these experiences and mold them into infectious hooks and songs that make him such an asset in today's market.

Not to be limited to tales of urban struggle and strife, Before The Hype, boasts tracks like " Da King," "Sophisticated," and "Get Your Hands Up," which are certified club bangers for whatever part of the country in which you reside. And we haven't even begun to touch on the more versatile side of KU!