Spolight on Super Music Producer: Khao

Super music producer/artist/songwriter Khao recently took a few minutes out of his busy day to speak to me about his recent acquisition of two major awards at the 20th Annual ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Music Awards. Khao went home with the Rap Song of the Year and R&B/Hip Hop Song of the Year.

Khao's talent contributes to the success of many artists such as: TI, Paul Wall, Lil Kim, R. Kelly, Snoop Dogg, Young Jeezy, and many more. His music has sold a total of over 8 million copies, worldwide. His music is sought after by artists of many different genres. He is the top producer for Grand Hustle/Atlantic Records and co-owner of Intaprize/GTT Entertainment. Despite his many accomplishments, he still managed to retain an air of humility and gratitude that resonated when we spoke.

Khao was able to overcome the tragedy of having all of his music stolen when someone stole his car. Although the odds were heavily against his favor, Khao managed to overcome that twist of fate by making his music even hotter.

How do you feel about winning two major awards at the ASCAP's 20th Annual Rhythm and Soul Music Awards?
It didn't really hit me that I had just won the awards until I was being congratulated on the red carpet. I never really get the chance to sit down and reflect on my accomplishments, I'm still working hard, all the time. That's a good thing because it keeps me grounded.

In 2004, all of your music was stolen as a result of a car theft. How did you get your swagger back?
I had to get my swagger back by working. By that time I had already produced beats for TI and his first album (Urban Legend) and people were asking me for beats. So, I didn't have time to be upset or think about what to do next. I had to start from scratch, from the bottom, and I had to use what I had so I started beatboxing.

Name a few artists you would like to work with in the future.
Wow, that list is getting shorter and shorter because I've been fortunate enough to work with many artists. But, I would like to work with Justin Timberlake, Lauryn Hill, Mary J. Blige, Mariah Carey, and Michael Jackson.

What's next for Khao?
I just had 2 number one albums, the R. Kelly Album and the TI album and I just did some work with Yung Joc and Chris Brown. Right now, I'm working on Snoop Dogg's album and I'm doing a few things with Ludacris. I'm also developing my album.I've done tracks for many artists and now it's like I have to sit down and try to outdo myself on each track.

Check out Khao's new single, Keys in the Air. Also, check him out online at www.khaomusic.com and www.myspace.com/khaomusic.