BLAAK LUNG BIOGRAPHY
“Producer/Writer/Artist/Musician/Businessman-
I’m an artist first”-Blaak Lung
While the Bay Area has produced many musicians, producers, singers, and rappers- there are few out there who possess all of those talents at the same time. Blaak Lung (a.k.a. Alan “EayGee” Gordon) is one of those rare artists who transcends above the typical musician. He is actively involved in every stage of the musical process; from creation, to production, to manufacturing, to distribution- Blaak Lung is in essence, music himself. After over 22 years of producing conscious roots vibrations for numerous artists in his top-notch recording lab, Blaak Lung has endeavored upon two hard-core solo projects which boldly introduce his authentic-yet-unique riddims, powerful messages, and unwavering mission to the world.
“Music has been in me since I was born.”
Drawn towards the power of music as a young child, Blaak Lung was playing drums, piano, and clarinet by the age of ten. As a child growing up in Cali’s Bay Area, he was introduced to his love of performing through experiences in school bands as well as music school. He grew up influenced by the works of Reggae greats such as Augustus Pablo, Rockers International, King Tubby and other Dub musicians. As a child in the 80’s, Blaak Lung also drew inspiration from the conscious Hip-Hop artists of the era, such as KRS-One. He began creating Reggae, Hip Hop, and R&B tracks in home-based studios at the age of thirteen, however Blaak Lung’s appreciation of vintage roots music is the foundation for his innovation today. You can hear the strong influence through the revolutionary lyrics, the classic melodies, the heavy bass, and the heavy kick of the songs the he has produced for himself and other artists. As a drummer and a lead artist as well, he has performed live on stage with prominent Reggae artists in many festivals including Dreadstock 2005, the Monterrey Bay Reggae Festival, and venues spanning the West Coast.
“Music has a role to teach- it’s not just entertainment.”
It all started with a Yamaha keyboard/sequencer in 1984.… and the rest is history. Blaak Lung is now the creator of the independent grassroots label “Greensphere Records” which has existed in conjunction with Greensphere Labs (his production facility) in Oakland, CA since 1996. He has been livicated to producing and recording quality conscious music for a variety of artists such as Mikey Dread, Andrew Tosh, Turbulence, Jalani Horton of Bambu Station, Ras Attitude, Sheep Advisory Unit, Dugsy Ranks, Wadi Gad, Soul Rebel aka “Windstrong”, Marcquis Melody, and up-and-coming roots artist Malika “Mother-Sista” Madremana. In addition to his production works, Blaak Lung has two of his own solo projects which heartically embody his expression and gift as an artist as well.
“I wanted to do what wasn‘t being done.”
Blaak Lung’s first album “To The Souls From Old” was released in 2004. He describes the vibe as “old-school, vintage, foundation, one-drop roots music”, and says the album is “about paying homage to the Elders who gave us the direction- to let them know that we’re still trying to carry on their vision.” Song’s like “The Truth”, “Change Song”, and “I Am That I Am” provide listeners with refreshing new sounds that exemplify Blaak Lung’s unique vocals- which he claims are a hybrid of many styles including Rap/DJ/Poetry.
“We as a collective need to stay at the front of the battle for African liberty.”
Blaak Lung continues his musical legacy with the next chapter- his second album “Frontline” (2006) is the latest release from Greenphere Records. The works show his growth as an artist- the sound is more precise, more solid. In connection with the profound talents of Virgin Island artists who form the D.A.P.P. Band (Abijah Hicks, Dion Hopkins, and Phillip Merchant), as well as legendary guitarist Vince Black, Blaak Lung has created a deeply moving collection of tunes that he calls “powerful, conscious, listening roots- nothing fancy- simple, yet solid”. Songs like “Million Miles From Home”, “Free Up Your Mind”, and “Rise and Fall” provide the listener with hauntingly unforgettable melodies and word sound power that force the issues to the Frontline- literally.
“I do what I’m supposed to do-anything I can for the continuation of the collective.”
What’s in store for the future? Blaak Lung is preparing for touring, more productions, more innovation…everything forward. His works are ever-forthcoming; there will be no shortage of musical output from Blaak Lung or Greensphere Records anytime soon. He is currently available for booking, production, and a variety of studio services. Blaak Lung is here to fill in the void of what’s lacking in the Reggae industry- he stands as a living representation of the Most High’s truth, integrity, bravery, and consciousness that pours out as honestly and militantly as his music. He talks the talk- but he also walks the walk- and stands on the Frontline, calling for us to come join him.
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