Born and raised on the outskirts of Area 51 near Las Vegas, NV, Elias Rivele aka MAD Genius grew up in isolation, without a father or mother.  Raised by his paternal grandfather, an ex-CIA agent and General in the United States Air Force, MAD adopted a lifestyle of hidden identity.  

MAD began developing his craft at the age of 16, pouring his knowledge, experiences, ideas and emotions into his writing. He often writes in allegorical fashion to reveal certain truths about the world to those who are willing to ponder his message. MAD wears a mask during live performances, interviews and in videos to conceal his identity—fulfilling a promise he made to his paternal grandfather to keep the family from exposure.

For the past 4 years, MAD has performed in the streets of Berlin, Germany before returning to the US to pursue his passion to deliver the highest quality records and visual content to his fans.  His style of music is allegorical, internal and complex. MAD pursues justice in the face of partiality both in life and his music. Purging injustices in the minds and hearts of listeners is his primary motivation. MAD often incorporates a diverse skillset in music videos and media content. A 3rd-Dan blackbelt in Aikido and certified Master in Escrima Serrada, MAD showcases such skills in his upcoming music video "Infiltrated Revolution" drill remix.

These are Songs that me and my friends make
My personal: https://soundcloud.com/kenneth-424209867

Shahidi is a black american artist originally from Minneapolis. A singer, songwriter, and acoustic guitarist, Shahidi’s music is informed by his culture and experiences as an African American man in Minnesota and by the songs and traditions he grew up within his Sufi household. Shahidi draws upon the therapeutic and spiritual qualities of music and he vocalizes raw emotions and deep reflections surrounding the lived experiences of Black men, Black youth, and Black fathers. Centering pain, love, grief, and hard truths that are at times spoken about but not always heard, Shahidi’s songwriting will elevate the vulnerabilities of Black men in the Twin Cities. This blend of soulful acoustic guitar melodies and collaborative, cross-diasporic storytelling will also musically map a journey toward unity across Black communities in the Twin Cities.

Followers of 6th Ring