In a society where originality and independence are praised and taught but seldom followed, emcee Laelo Hood managed to overcome the odds. This St. Louis born rapper migrated to the Chocolate City in 1996, with a unique style and sound. Inspired by a rainbow palate of artist such as Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, The Stylistics, Tupac, Nas, KRS-One, Scarface, UGK, The Beatles, Nirvana and Mr. Sinatra to name a few, Laelo Hood quickly found his own distinctive swagger that reflected his eclectic taste.

With the 2006 release of his debut album Ghetto Prophet: Water of Life, he quickly became one of the DMV’s (DC, Maryland, Virginia) most respected underground artist. “I Feel Good” featuring songbird Heiress was the first single off the album and an instant hit with major and internet radio stations. It was followed up by a new age street anthem titled “Blessed” featuring Coalition cohorts Shak-C and K-Ruckus. As his underground popularity continued to grow he released the first two parts of his mixtape series titled Let My People Know Volume I & Let my People Know Volume II: Return of the Prophet.

Laelo is all about the community and is involved in the many mentoring programs threw out the city. He strives to be a beckon of light to the youth and encourages them to follow their dreams by any means necessary. He also is involved in Project Hope in Africa, which is a non-profit group that supports HIV/AIDS and poverty awareness in Africa. In addition to organizing numerous clothing a food drives in the area.

After recently being awarded the 2007 DMV Rapper of the Year Award, Laelo Hood is back in the studio working on his sophomore album titled Struggle Music: Sounds of the Revolution. With a strong emphasis on Mental Awareness, Black History, Social Injustice and Uplifting the Community this next project is sure to speak to the souls of people.

            “This ability I have to create music is a gift from a higher power than myself, and I feel it would be a crime against God not to use it for good. I wasn’t always enlightened on things and that is the main reason I feel it is my duty to share the truth with others. If the way to do that is in rhyme then so be it. I’m not Malcolm, Martin or Farrakhan. I don’t give speeches. I’m an emcee, I spit bars, and I take a lot of pride in what I write.”  -Laelo Hood