Shakar-Ism

"Shakar" means "one who is grateful" in Arabic. "Ism" is defined by the Oxford Dictionary as a distinctive practice, system, or philosophy. "Shakar-Ism" is the practice of being grateful. "Shakar-Ism" is primarily the practice of Shakar Griffin, simply being himself. He was diagnosed with Autism at the age of four. Doctors and school officials stated that Shakar would have trouble communicating, interacting with other children, and with social skills. By age eight, Shakar-Ism had already taught himself to sing and play piano, trombone, and recorder by ear. He later began to experiment with different audio recording programs.

Shakar-Ism defied all odds! Not only did he learn to communicate and drive, but he also became a talented songwriter who makes beats and writes lyrics. He is a skilled audio engineer who records, mixes, and produces his music. He is a performing artist and graphic designer who created the Shakar-Ism clothing line. He supports autism awareness and motivation efforts towards mental health. All are uplifted or moved by his winning spirit and quest to inspire everyone. Although Shakar Griffin received offers of two scholarships to attend Harvard University, Shakar-Ism turned them down to follow his passion for music. Shakar graduated with an Entertainment Business Certificate from SAE Institute Chicago, where he continues to study for the Entertainment Business Associates Degree.

Shakar-Ism has had the honor of winning the title and being crowned King at the Quad Fest, in a Verzuz-styled rap battle with local talent. He is one of the talented winners of the C.O.R.E. Talent Discovery Project with CORE Music Foundation. He also received recognition and endorsement from Grammy-winning artist Common. Shakar-Ism has opened up for Bone Thugs In Harmony and was honored to give a live freestyle performance for KRS-One. He has performed at the Harold Washington Cultural Center, The Grand Ballroom Chicago, Richard J. Daley Center, The Wrigley Building, Promontory, and various events throughout the Chicagoland area. Shakar-Ism has graced the stage with Chicago Legends Twista, Shawnna, Crucial Conflict, Three Piece, and many more.

Shakar-Ism performed at the mourning family’s birthday celebration for Chicago's missing postal worker, Kierra Coles. The event aired on WLS TV, WBBM TV, WGN TV, and WMAQ TV in Chicago. He also performed for IL State Senator Willie Peterson. Seandell of WPWX-FM Power 92 Radio interviewed Shakar-Ism, broadcast his music on the station, and featured him in his upcoming documentary What Seandale Means To Chicago. Shakar-Ism took pride in being interviewed by Chairman Fred Hampton Jr. of the Black Pantha Party Cubs and ChiBlizz of My Radio Chicago. Shakar-Ism was grateful to have had the opportunity to work behind the scenes for shows featuring Twista, DJ Quick, Too Short, and Morris Day. "Autism does not stop me! " States Shakar-Ism. He has independently released the songs AUT and Get From The Matrix on all streaming platforms. Shakar-Ism is ready to take his career to the next level.