ODDISEE, born Amir Mohamed el Khalifa on February 24, 1981, in Washington, DC, grew up in Largo, Maryland. His father is Sudanese, and his mother is African American, both of whom greatly influenced his musical journey. ODDISEE credits his diverse heritage as a key factor in shaping his unique sound and perspective.
With a passion for music from a young age, ODDISEE began producing and rapping in his basement studio. He quickly made a name for himself in the local hip-hop scene, eventually catching the attention of music producer Flying Lotus. ODDISEE's talent and dedication to his craft led to collaborations with artists and producers across the industry.
In 2010, ODDISEE released the popular mixtape "Odd Spring," which garnered critical acclaim and solidified his status as a rising star in hip-hop. The Washington Post named it one of the Best Local Hip-Hop Mixtapes of the year, signaling ODDISEE's arrival on the national stage.
ODDISEE is not only a talented rapper but also a skilled producer and member of the renowned music trio Diamond District. His versatility and musical prowess have earned him accolades such as Mixtape of the Week by Stereogum for "Rock Creek Park." ODDISEE's ability to blend soulful melodies with thought-provoking lyrics sets him apart as a true artist in the hip-hop world.
Aside from his work with Diamond District, ODDISEE is also a key player in the independent record label Mello Music Group. As an artist and consultant, he continues to push boundaries and break new ground in the music industry.
Beyond his music career, ODDISEE values family and his cultural roots. He attributes much of his success to the love and support of his parents, who instilled in him a strong work ethic and passion for music. ODDISEE's move to Washington D.C. after high school further fueled his creativity and drive to make a name for himself in the music world.
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