Biography
read full storyCarl Aiken a.k.a. “Shinehead”/ “2Face”, began his artistic career circa in 1980, via the dancehall sound systems of New York, e.g., “Downbeat”, “African Love”, “Specialist Roots”, “Papa Moke”, “Sir Tommy’s”, ...
Carl Aiken a.k.a. “Shinehead”/ “2Face”, began his artistic career circa in 1980, via the dancehall sound systems of New York, e.g., “Downbeat”, “African Love”, “Specialist Roots”, “Papa Moke”, “Sir Tommy’s”, “Star Wars”, “Sons Junior Sebastian”, etc.. where he paid dues until March of 1988 when he was signed to Elektra Records with the help of his long time friend – the legendary: “Jam Master Jay” of hip-hop pioneers: “Run DMC”. Already coming to the majors with a name for himself, not to mention tremendous talent, charisma and statesmanship, he stayed with Elektra Records until January 1995. In conversing with Shinehead and watching his concert, you get the idea of an articulate, yet “rough-n-rugged”, real-live, charming ragamuffin Peter Pan. His songs and live performances are generously seasoned with high energy, humor, plain old common sense, harsh reality, socio-economic commentary, matters of the heart, positive coaching in self esteem, especially for children & adolescents, tastefully done covers, craftily done twists of familiar tunes and yes his own brilliant originals. Musically, Shinehead’s “boot camp training”, as he likes to call it, stems from a solid dual foundation of Reggae and B’Boyin’, the latter of which is now known as “Hip Hop”. Shinehead also raps and sings rather well, along with his fame as a DJ (chanter/toaster). He is regarded in the sound system and sound clash world as one of the essential artists to have for your dub plate collection. His music keeps improving with his only downfall being that he is always ahead of his time; stands to reason why he penned Musical Madness. His hits are: “Jamaican in New York”, “Chain Gang”, “Strive”, “Golden Touch”, “Billy Jean”, “Rough and Rugged”, “Who The Cap Fit”, “Try My Love”, “Billy Jean”, “Olivia”, “Collie Weed” and “Promises” (just to name a few). Most recently, Shinehead released “I Do Love You” and “There’s No Me” (double “A” side- 7” record) that was well received by critics and fans worldwide. That 7” was also the top selling 7” of 2008 via “Ernie B Reggae Distribution”. His new music is refreshing and long awaited. Based on his role as “Smiley” in the film “Turn It Up” (featuring “Pras” of the “Fugees” and Def Jam recording artist “Ja Rule”) and a few readings, it is evident that a promising actor lies within. Over the years, Shinehead has performed at venues all over the world as he is most popular in London, Jamaica and Japan. Having toured and performed over the years with the international artists such as: “Big Daddy Kane”, “Guy”, “SuperCat”, “Beres Hammond”, “Run DMC”, “L.L. Cool J” and more. Shinehead is constantly touring at various clubs, venues and stage shows worldwide and is also currently in the lab working on his highly-anticipated new (LP) release.