Backxwash is the stage name of Ashanti Mutinta, a Canadian rapper, singer, and music producer known for her distinct fusion of rap, metal, and experimental sounds. Born in Zambia, Backxwash immigrated to Canada and began her music career in Montreal. With a bold and unapologetic approach to her artistry, she has garnered attention for her intense lyricism, innovative production, and captivating stage presence.
Backxwash
Backxwash's music often explores themes of identity, spirituality, and personal struggle, drawing from her own experiences as a transgender woman of color. Her lyrics are characterized by their raw honesty and emotional depth, addressing topics such as mental health, social justice, and the challenges of navigating intersecting layers of marginalization.
In 2019, Backxwash gained widespread acclaim with the release of her debut album, "Deviancy." The album received praise for its genre-bending sound and provocative lyricism, earning Backxwash the Polaris Music Prize, one of Canada's most prestigious music awards. With "Deviancy," Backxwash established herself as a groundbreaking artist pushing the boundaries of rap music.
Following the success of "Deviancy," Backxwash continued to build her reputation as a boundary-pushing artist with a series of critically acclaimed releases. Her sophomore album, "God Has Nothing to Do with This Leave Him Out of It" (2020), further solidified her position as a leading figure in the underground music scene. The album showcased her versatility as an artist, blending elements of hip-hop, industrial, and noise music to create a dark and atmospheric sonic landscape.
In addition to her solo work, Backxwash has collaborated with a diverse range of artists and producers, further expanding her creative reach. Her collaborations often reflect her eclectic musical influences, drawing from genres as varied as black metal, witch house, and industrial rap.
Beyond her music, Backxwash is known for her outspoken advocacy on issues of social justice and LGBTQ+ rights. She uses her platform to amplify marginalized voices and challenge societal norms, both within the music industry and beyond. Through her art and activism, Backxwash continues to inspire audiences around the world, pushing boundaries and reshaping the landscape of contemporary rap music.
Backxwash is an influential figure in the contemporary music scene, known for her innovative blend of rap, metal, and experimental sounds. As a transgender woman of color, she brings a unique perspective to her artistry, addressing themes of identity, spirituality, and personal struggle with raw honesty and emotional depth. Her debut album, "Deviancy," earned her the prestigious Polaris Music Prize, establishing her as a groundbreaking artist. With a discography that showcases her versatility and boundary-pushing creativity, Backxwash continues to captivate audiences and challenge societal norms through her music and activism.
Backxwash has been mentioned in various media outlets, including music publications, online platforms, and interviews. Some notable mentions include features and reviews in Pitchfork, Rolling Stone, Bandcamp Daily, and The FADER. Additionally, she has been interviewed by platforms such as NPR and CBC Music, where she has discussed her music, influences, and experiences as a transgender artist. Her work has also been highlighted on music streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, where her albums and singles have been featured and promoted. Overall, Backxwash's presence and impact in the music industry have been recognized and celebrated across a range of media channels and platforms.
