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Light, also known as Earl Smith, is a rising rap artist hailing from Baltimore, MD.  Light states, "I've been into music as long as I've been able to talk.  I used to know every song that came on the radio."  Light has been rapping seriously since he was 14 years old.  Light says that he was influenced by the "true leaders of hip-hop", artists such as Notorious B.I.G., Tupac, Run DMC, KRS-One, LL Cool J, Rakim, and Nas.  Other influences are situations that have been seen and heard on the streets.

A recent high school graduate in 2000, light has only held one job in his entire life, outside of hustling.  What's most important to him at this time is putting Crown Jewelz, the entertainment company in which he's president, on the map.  "It's more to it than just trying to go platinum", says Light, "I want my whole team on top and I'm going to do whatever it takes to get them there." 

While writing Light likes to listen to his beats and allow them to set his mood for new material.  On the other hand, a screaming crowd along with a dutch is what motivates Light before a performance.  Lately, Light has been working hard in the studio on the Crown Jewelz Compilation album, which should be released in late spring/early summer.  Places you may have seen Light perform are Dunbar High School- Baltimore, Blackout - North Carolina, and Kiya's - Atlanta.
Story By Lakeisha Powell

For more information on release dates and performances, check out Light's website at http://crownjewelz.cjb.net