Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeshaun “Ace Gahd” Powell
Hi Jeshaun, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
From rhythmic lunchroom tables to professional recording studios, my journey as a multimedia artist began at age six with an unwavering passion for hip-hop. Despite growing up in a household where my preacher father viewed rap as sacrilegious, I found ways to nurture my craft – secretly producing beats on “borrowed” equipment from my big brother and weaving rhymes into any school school assignment I could and rapping outside to my peers.
My breakthrough came through me entering poetry slams, where consistent victories helped demonstrate to my father the artistic merit in lyricism (and by proxy rap.) This passion for creative expression led me to pursue a BFA in Animation and Illustration at Memphis College of Art, where I transformed voice-acting booths into makeshift recording studios. I slept inside those booths for days making music
During my academic journey, I mastered a diverse array of digital tools – from Studio One for music production to Adobe’s creative suite for visual content. I became adept at many skills in animaton, video and photo editing, sound design, graphic design, production,mix engineering ( the list goes on and on). This technological versatility, combined with my artistic background, naturally evolved into Ace GAHD Productions LLC, a multimedia art business where I serve as “The Renaissance Man,” creating immersive experiences that engage both sight and sound.
What began as a child’s defiant love for hip-hop has blossomed into a multifaceted creative enterprise, proving that authentic artistic passion knows no boundaries – whether they’re parental, technical, or creative.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The path hasn’t been without its challenges. As an artist, I struggled to find the balance between complex lyricism and accessibility, learning that sometimes less is more. Financial constraints meant working without industry-standard plugins, forcing me to master the fundamentals the hard way. Being a one-person operation – simultaneously acting as marketer, brander, designer, and manager – has taught me that capability doesn’t always equal sustainability.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
What sets me apart is my blend hip-hop artistry, visual design, and audio production. My journey began at age six, rapping at lunchroom tables, and evolved through years of self-taught production and formal education, culminating in a BFA in Animation and Illustration from Memphis College of Art. I’ve developed expertise across multiple domains. This versatility allows me to take a very hands-on approach through my art and business.
I’m most proud of how I’ve turned obstacles into opportunities. Growing up poor in North Memphis with limited resources, I learned to be resourceful – whether that meant making beats on borrowed equipment or transforming voice-acting booths into recording studios. I’ve developed the capability to handle everything from marketing to management independently, I’m constantly evolving and learning to balance complex artistry with accessibility, ensuring my work resonates with diverse audiences while maintaining its creative integrity. I’m a human being pursuing my soul purpose. It feels nice realizing my potential in the present moment regardless of how large or small my business gets in the future.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
My approach to networking has always been organic and authentic. Rather than forcing connections, I simply show up in spaces where creativity thrives and remain true to myself. I’ve learned that building genuine relationships and earning respect should precede any business discussions. I’ve also extended this approach to cultivating my online presence and taking alot of that pressure off of myself to be great NOW! When people respect you as a person first, the professional opportunities naturally follow.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://acegahd.start.page
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/theacegahd
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/theacegahd
- Twitter: https://x.com/theacegahd
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDOU8efbiPWZNIXL9o-NqOQ
- Other: https://linktr.ee/theacegahd
