Ras Xprshn’s musical journey began in the mid-1980s in the UK, inspired by the vibrant Sound System Culture, including influences from Saxon, Unity Hi-Fi, and Coxsone.

Initially, Xprshn was part of a sound system called “Finesse” in his hometown, which later merged with “Studio Classic” to form “Studio Mix Sound.” Known then as “The Kernel,” he was a prominent DJ/MC for the group. Studio Mix Sound gained national recognition, supporting international acts like Maxi Priest, Peter Metro, Major Makrel, and more.

As he evolved, Xprshn transitioned from being an MC to a professional recording artist. Embracing the Rastafari faith, his lyrics took on a conscious tone, addressing social injustices, and he adopted the name Ras Xprshn to reflect his new perspective.

During the late 90s, when it seemed that the sound system culture was being pushed to the back by other more popular genres, Xprshn felt compelled to mentor the next generation. Working with other members of the community he co-founded The Kemet Musical Production Association, a music school and event organisation. In 1998, he discovered a talented group of youngsters who he booked for an event. At the time the group didn’t have a name but now needed a name so they could be featured on the flyer. The group decided on the name ‘Jah Troopers’ and this marked the first official booking for the group, and the rest is history.

Xprshn began working very closely with Jah Troopers and as the group developed they became one of the UK’s leading sound systems for developing talent, organising events from local to international acts and bridging cultural gaps. Xprshn played multiple roles within Jah Troopers, including performing artist, music producer, live event sound engineer, and event manager. With the group Xprshn performed with acts like Wailing Souls, Fantan Mojah, Coxsone Sound, Jah Love Sound System, and David Rodigan, and appeared on national radio stations like BBC 1xtra.

In 2010, fulfilling a long-held goal, Xprshn repatriated to Ethiopia, driven by his reawakened Rastafari faith. Since being in Ethiopia he’s established Crouching Lion Recordings, an independent label and studio supporting Ethiopian reggae artists. Some of his notable works are mix and master of albums like “Mountain Top” by Ras Seyoum and international releases War Is Not The Answer Riddim, Caribbean Storm Riddim, and Marathon of Love Riddim, instigating cross-market relationships between UK and Ethiopian artists.

Xprshn done a short stint with African Wendem Sound System as a live artist and MC, alongside Tyga Simeon and Bradda Jahzeal. The group built reputation as one of Addis Ababa’s leading sound systems, hosting international acts like Yaadcore and Jah 9.

Xprshn has become a reputable sound engineer in Addis Ababa, working with local and international acts such as Tsedi and Stone Bwoy. He has been resident sound engineer at venue such as Villa Verde, and has now launched Rebel Unit sound system which we hires our for events as a PA system collaborating with King Darius.