The album began as one of guitarist Randy Ellefson’s solo records and the first with vocals, but that’s what started the trouble. Over seven years, six singers came and went without finishing their parts, forcing Ellefson to start over. And over. And over. In frustration, he finally gave up.

But the project was never forgotten, and six years later, he returned with singer #3, Atlanta’s Chase Breedlove, coming back to complete it. After adding some new songs, and with the rest of the original lineup long gone, Ellefson hired famed drummer Dirk Verbeuren to help finish it.

The lead single, “Upon Deaf Ears,” tackles a problem familiar to many—asking someone for help only to be told “hang in there” or “it gets better” instead of being listened to, or hearing actionable advice. “While there’s nothing wrong with these phrases,” says Ellefson, “sometimes they’re a copout to avoid getting involved.” His own experience with that led him to write the song.

“Upon Deaf Ears” is now available on all major streaming platforms, BandCamp, SoundCloud, and YouTube. Visit https://linktr.ee/blackhalometal for access to these and Black Halo’s social media, merch, and website hub.

For more information, send to blackhalo@randyellefson.com.

The third installment in Ahanu’s celebrated spoken word musical series, (STAW) + (REE) + (TEL) + (UH) continues his exploration of narrative as a vehicle for truth, reflection, and transformation. Produced by North Carolina based producer Mike Blayz, this latest project fuses dynamic lyricism with lush musical backdrops, weaving stories that hold up a mirror to our lives, our communities, and the challenges and triumphs we face.

“Stories have impact,” Ahanu explains. “They center truths. They are mirrors to the soul. They remind us of everything that we are, everything we go through, and everything we have overcome.”

(STAW) + (REE) + (TEL) + (UH), Vol. 3 showcases Ahanu’s commanding voice alongside guest appearances from a stellar lineup of collaborators, including Illpo, J. Melodik, Tamisha Waden, Osc Kelly, Shamika Chantae, Genesis Harris, and Shikeish. The result is a project that is as intimate as it is expansive, affirming Ahanu’s reputation as one of the most compelling storytellers in contemporary spoken word.

With this release, Ahanu once again demonstrates the power of storytelling as a cultural force—one rooted in southern traditions yet resonant across borders, fitting in with the current trend of spoken word albums gaining popularity. The album has been submitted for consideration in the Best Spoken Word Album category at the GRAMMY Awards®. More information on the submission process and the category can be found at https://www.recordingacademy.com/.

Album Credits:

Produced by Mike Blayz

Guest Artists: Illpo, J. Melodik, Tamisha Waden, Osc Kelly, Shamika Chantae, Genesis Harris, Shikeish
Contact Information: Dasan Ahanu, dasan@dasanahanu.com, 984.837.0831