ArtistInfo

Illustrate

Hip-Hop/Rap
A.k.a. Justin Ham

Illustrate unleashes with a message of Christ on a level that most of the hip hop community has forgotten. Though the rap industry is flooded with artists that insist on being pimps, players, and thugs, he is part of what is turning the tide to spirituality. His life ministry is dedicated to speaking the truth through real hip hop music and each of his projects reflects just that, dealing with the real hardships and trials of life while maintaining a real walk with God. Illustrate began in 1995 in Denver, CO. It was then that he began working with a local Gangster rap label known as Kut-N-Kru Records. He released his first project, "Summons of a Soldier," in 1996 in which he also did most of the production as well. It was with Kut-N-Kru that he was able to perform at many block parties and car shows in the Denver area. In 1998 Illustrate left Kut-N-Kru and teamed up with 4th Man Records, based out of Los Angeles. It was with 4th Man that his second project, "Focus," was released in early 1999. This project was completed with help from members of his crew, the Lord's Fellowship. They appear on a large part of the "Focus" album. This was also a time for Illustrate to refine his production skills. His third project, "illosophy" was finished in 2002, but was never officially released due to financial set backs. Production credits included Illustrate, KP (4th Ave. Jones), Jendor, and Brotha' Sam. Artist guest appearances include Fros'T, A. C. E., Ellis Taylor, Joe Bereal, Dent, and Jendor. Currently, the "Chronicles of Life" is set to release June 12, 2007 through Rezurected Muzic/ 4th Man Music Group. This includes guest appearances by Spokin 11, Jendor, Dirt (Shadow of the Locust), Joe Bereal, Tak Tik, Manna, Cris Cameo, and DJ Chonz. It is expected to be Illustrate's hottest release to date. Over the past ten years, Illustrate has performed at various places around the country. These include car shows, youth groups, block parties, Cornerstone 2000, and any other opportunity to minister the Word of God. He has shared the stage with such artists as Fros'T, Unity Klan, Redcloud, Dirt, Sackcloth Fashion, Mars Ill, and Preachas in tha Hood. Illustrate comes hard with the Word of God and real rhyme skills. He believes that anything done for the Kingdom of God will last and should at all times be done correctly.