AJ 215 (Azjan Ransome) is a Philly-born artist, DJ, and engineer whose work lives at the intersection of experience, discipline, and purpose. He was raised in West Philadelphia, where his early years were filled with music, neighborhood friendships, and a strong sense of community. He started making music young—rapping and producing with friends for fun, not chasing anything bigger at the time. It was a positive upbringing. But as he got older, things shifted. Friends were lost, and the environment around him changed. The music became more than just an outlet—it became a way to make sense of what was happening

AJ experienced several personal losses over the years. In 2020, his first mentor Q (a respected local rapper admired for both his skill and integrity) loss his life to gun violence. As time went on, more friends were lost to violence, a harsh reality familiar to many growing up in Philadelphia.

The most pivotal loss was Smoke, AJ’s next-door neighbor and close friend. Born just ten days apart, they shared a childhood and a deep bond. Smoke, also a rapper, was AJ’s biggest supporter—one of the main ones who constantly encouraged him to pursue music seriously. After Smoke’s death, AJ’s relationship with music changed. It became more focused, more urgent—a way to honor the people he lost and carry forward what they believed in.

“Music became a battleground for me. I lost people who believed in me more than I believed in myself. I have to wonder—if I took things serious sooner, could it have went differently?”

That question didn’t lead to reflection alone—it led to action.

AJ doesn’t just make music—he studies the culture that shaped him and took so much from him. He mentors artists like soldiers, equipping them to move with intention, discipline, and power. He honors his fallen brothers by refusing to let their dreams die too. Every beat, every verse, every artist he supports is part of a larger effort: reclaiming influence, protecting creativity, and reshaping what music means for his city.

At the core of his work is a vow: to never again fail to support the people around him.

Despite the weight of loss and responsibility, AJ embraces joy.

“Being joyful, loving, and playful is part of my revenge. The world tried to harden me—but I fight back with hilarity. With laughter. That’s how I keep their spirits alive.”

AJ 215 makes music to honor what he lost—and to protect what still remains. This isn’t just art. It’s a legacy, a mission, and a promise.