Drastik facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Drastik
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Drastik during a performance in Austin, TX
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Gerald DeLoach Jr. |
| Born | February 19, 1989 Mamou, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Origin | Austin, Texas, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip-Hop, Soul, Rock |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper |
| Years active | 2009-present |
| Labels | Home Team Records |
| Associated acts | Circle of Fire, Kevin Jack, Sore Losers, Tje Austin |
Gerald DeLoach Jr. (born February 19, 1989), known by his stage name Drastik, is an American Hip-Hop artist. He is from Austin, Texas. Drastik is known for his unique blend of Hip-Hop, Soul, and Rock music. He has released several EPs and mixtapes since starting his career in 2009.
Contents
Who is Drastik?
Early Life and Music Journey
Drastik was born in Mamou, Louisiana. He spent much of his childhood in Oakdale and New Orleans. Later, his family moved to Houston, Texas. His father ran a recording studio and was part of a rap group. This meant Drastik grew up surrounded by music.
First Steps in Music
At just 11 years old, Drastik wrote his first song. Soon after, he formed a rap group called DSD. He created the group with two friends, DICE and J. Maine. They recorded an album and performed together for four years. However, the group eventually broke up due to some business problems.
Building a Record Label
While in high school, Drastik met David R. “DC” Canales and his brother Mike. Together, they started Home Team Records. This label brought together many talented local artists. They worked together to release several mixtapes. A mixtape is like a collection of songs, often shared for free.
The artists also formed a five-member group called Deuce 81 G.A.G.E. This group released an album and a DVD. They also put out a series of mixtapes called “Get This Paper.” After a while, the group decided to go their separate ways. Drastik then worked with his old friend DICE on a project. This project was called “Birth of Modern Military Thought.”
Daily Downloads and Austin Move
After releasing this mixtape, Drastik tried something new. In May 2009, he released one new song every day. This project was called the “Daily Downloads.” It included 31 new tracks. Videos of his performances also helped him gain attention.
This success led to many opening spots for bigger artists in Austin. He opened for stars like Trey Songz and Wiz Khalifa. Because of his growing popularity, Drastik moved to Austin. This move happened just before his Texas tour with J. Cole in January 2010.
Tours and New Music
In January 2010, Drastik joined J. Cole on The J. Cole Texas Tour. He also toured with Curren$y, Pac Div, and XV in the spring of 2010. This was part of The LRG Home Grown Tour. In the fall of 2010, he performed on select dates of the What U Doin College tour. He shared the stage with artists like Big Sean.
Releasing New EPs
In the spring of 2010, Drastik teamed up with Austin artist Kevin Jack. They released a 7-track EP called "Circus Mirrors." An EP is a shorter music album. This EP featured music produced by Big Gigantic and Ratatat.
In December 2010, the Austin Examiner newspaper named Drastik as one of five Austin Hip-Hop artists to watch in 2011. In January 2011, Drastik released his first solo EP. It was titled "Something to Say." This EP was produced entirely by his long-time friend, 2wentyWon. "Something to Say" received many positive reviews. It helped Drastik become even more well-known in the Texas music scene.
Drastik's Family Life
Drastik is the older of two sons born to Kathy Green and Gerald DeLoach Sr. He has a younger brother named Katlyn DeLoach. He also has a sister named Jordan DeLoach from his father's second marriage.
Music Releases
- EP's
- Something to Say (2011)
- Mixtapes
- Circus Mirrors with Kevin Jack (2010)
Awards and Achievements
- Placed 2nd in The Recording Conservatory of Austin's "Best Unsigned Band" Competition.
- Nominated for "Best Performing Hip-Hop Artist or DJ" at the 2011 Austin Music Awards.
- Named one of the Top 10 SXSW Bands in 2011 by Study Breaks Magazine.
- Recognized as one of 5 Austin Hip-Hop Artists to Watch in 2011 by The Austin Examiner.
