Watch me audition for NPR's Tiny Desk Concert performing one of my favorite songs I have written, "Cannot Lose." I consider this song a manifesto to the suburbs, but also a cry of the streets.

BAND CREDITS: Electric Guitar: Carlos Chaves, Drums: William Hawthorne, Aux Synth: Gawuan Williams, Bass: Jayden Adelson, Keys: Willie Mcmillon III, Background Vocals: Avery Janae, Isaiah McQueen, Jordin McQueen, Baby McQueen, Vocal Production: Ernesto Alcantara Jr.,

PRODUCTION CREDITS: Recorded & Mixed at ​⁠​⁠‪@Btsoundscle‬ Recording Studios, Sessions Engineers: Shawn Carter & Charles Pratt Videographer & Editor: Yaroslav Soltys

Jelani Aswad is a native of the Bronx and grew up for most of His life in Spring Valley, New York. In church he learned singing, performing, and how to honor the Creator who gave him his gifts. Though Jelani strayed for years wondering who he was, growing up in the city and suburbs of New York, and experiencing the stories of his neighborhood always intrigued him. Over time, Jelani developed a deep desire to catalog its stories through music and poetry.