Camu Tao facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Camu Tao
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| Birth name | Tero Smith |
| Born | June 26, 1977 |
| Origin | Columbus, Ohio, U.S. |
| Died | May 25, 2008 (aged 30) |
| Genres | Hip hop |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, singer, producer |
| Years active | 1997–2008 |
| Labels | Definitive Jux, Fat Possum Records, Eastern Conference Records, Smash Bros., B.U.K.A. Entertainment |
| Associated acts | S.A. Smash, The Weathermen, MHz Legacy, Central Services, Nighthawks. Couch Boys |
Tero Smith (born June 26, 1977 – died May 25, 2008) was an American musician. He was better known by his stage name Camu Tao. He was a talented rapper, singer, and music producer.
Early Life
Camu Tao was born Tero Smith in Columbus, Ohio. His birthday was June 26, 1977.
Music Career
Camu Tao was signed to a record label called Definitive Jux. He was part of several music groups during his career. These groups included S.A. Smash and The Weathermen.
He also worked with El-P in a group called Central Services. Camu Tao was also a member of the MHz crew. This crew included other artists like Copywrite and RJD2.
He also formed a duo called Nighthawks with Cage. They even made an album together in just three days.
His Passing
Camu Tao passed away on May 25, 2008. He was 30 years old. He had been diagnosed with lung cancer two years earlier.
His Legacy
Even after his passing, Camu Tao's music and influence lived on. He was working on his first solo album when he died. His friend El-P announced that the album was finished. It was called King of Hearts. The album was released in 2010. El-P said that many of the songs were just how Camu wanted them.
Other artists also remembered Camu Tao in their music. Aesop Rock wrote songs about his friend Camu. For example, in his song "Racing Stripes," he thought about Camu's life. Another song, "Get Out of the Car," also talks about how Camu's passing affected him.
El-P dedicated his album Cancer 4 Cure to Camu Tao. He also mentioned Camu in a song called "Thursday in the Danger Room." This shows how much Camu Tao meant to his friends and fellow musicians.
Music Releases
Camu Tao released several music projects during his career. He made albums with his groups and as a solo artist.
- Nighthawks (2002) (with Cage, as Nighthawks)
- Forever Frozen in Television Time (2010) (with El-P, as Central Services)
- King of Hearts (2010)
He also released several mixtapes and singles. He appeared as a guest on songs by other artists too.
