While a majority of gangster impresarios continues to water down rap music, Raination is busy breathing fresh air into the genre by way of its organic hip-hop soul. Musically the New York band is on point: keyboard, bass, guitar, and drums come together to form a melodic, soul-influenced foundation for MC Adeodatus' forward-thinking lyrics.
The Real Artist Independent Nation (RAINation) is a 100% organic hip hop band that features live instruments and original music. The group fuses together elements of jazz, blues, roots, rock, reggae, funk, and rap to create the freshest new sound in hip hop. RAINation combines emotional, innovative, dynamic and technically sound riffs. Added to this are socially conscious lyrics and rhymes relevant to the times. The group has remarkably formulated a spiritual sound which captures audiences' minds while truly satisfying their souls. Born out of an era that saw hip hop grow from success to excess, RAINation has taken off the chains and namebrands. They have taken hip hop back to the quality of the music. Band members are driven by the desire to inspire people across the world to love one another and recognize their commonality. Their music is for and about the common person and the power they have to positively influence society, ulitmately bringing peace and prosperity to all. RAINation was founded by Blindman (Keys) and Adeodatus "The Goldchild" (Emcee) in the summer of 2000. The two entrepreneurs were friends since middle school. Through a mutual friend they were reunited during a phat session at Blindman's crib. Since that time, Adeo and Blind have been pioneering the inspirational sounds of RAINation. The two musicians have been influenced by a wide range of artists which include the Marley's, Gang-Starr, Common, Nas, Herbie Hancock, Duke Ellington, Pink Floyd, The Roots, Ben Harper and Jack Johnson. Wihtout a doubt, RAINation has what it takes to revolutionize the music industry. In addition to Adeo and Blind, RAINation offers an all-star lineup. For example, drummer/producer/songwriter Curtis-"Megawatts" is no stranger to the hip hop world. In fact he is an original member of the first hip hop band ever signed to a major label (Smokin' Suckas Wit Logic/EPIC). The Bronx native has worked with artists like KRS-One, DJ Logic, Eric B. & Rakim, Vernon Reid, Living Colour and producer Pharell of the Neptunes. Also adding to the deep pockets experienced in RAINation's music are the bouncy, melodic grooves rocked by bass player Tomcat, along with emotional, heartfelt singing of vocal sensation Corinne Gooden. Completing the lineup is the genius playing of violinist/arranger Mocha Ishibashi, as well as the sharp cutting style of DJ Tomu. RAINation is quickly building their name through their ability to entertain live audiences. Each live show is unique and it leaves fans wanting more. Often the band remixes songs and features special guest emcees. Recently RAINation has opened for acts such as Cee-Lo (Goodie Mob), Scratch (The Human DJ), Robert Randolph, Julian Marley, Omar, Common, The Black Eyed Peas, and hip hop living legends, The Roots.