BIO


With music heard throughout the US, Singapore, Italy, South Africa, Canada and Germany, international independent hip-hop artist Von Vargas reflects the light that the hip-hop genre often neglects. From being featured on Hip-Hop TV Japan to community Anti- Gang Summit Rallies, Von Vargas has the ability to transcend cultural and ethnic barriers. Energetic and authentic in his performance style, he’s destined to raise a standard through Life Hip-hop music.

Born and raised on the Westside of Baltimore City (home of HBO’s The Wire) his knowledge of the street mentality coupled with his profound ability to convey it’s pits and falls makes him essential in today’s music industry. He does nothing short of leaving permanent impressions on the hearts and minds of audiences across the globe. With his forthcoming album “Foreve’r Christiano”, Von Vargas will continue to raise a standard.

Von Vargas is responsible for Music Marketing Ads, Hip-Hop Ads and Campaigns for: United Healthcare, American Cancer Society, Changes Enterprises / Dickies Workwear, AS Midway Tours (feat Adaleus Thomas formerly of the Baltimore Ravens), and more. Vons ads are heard on stations such as: Radio One’s 92.3 fm, 93.1 fm, 95.9 fm, 104.5 fm, Clear Channel’s 600 am, B.E.T, ESPN, TV One, HGTV, and more. Von Vargas also has a passion for youth development. He’s touched the lives of over 5000 youth in the past few years.

The Latest Work From Von Vargas, the highly anticipated album is Foreve’r Christiano. Eleven months of creative construction now reveals a suitable effort with confidence of mainstream exposure and success. Collaborating with producers: EZ M. Breezie (Christina Milian), Quincy Phillips (Stephanie Mills, Jeff Majors), Deo Valente (formerly of the Grammy nominated “Stereotypes”),(2pac, Anthony Hamilton, E-40, Keyshia Cole) and some narration from Guido Guarnaccia. Von decides to aim his focus to the masses. Excited and enthused about the album Von is prepared for independent release August 2010.

MORE ABOUT VON


An underground innovator of the music, arts and entertainment industry, Von Vargas (L. Smith) has aimed his focus since day one. Currently, he is the co- owner of an urban marketing, music and youth development company, which allows him to maximize his talents while serving corporate and community clients. Von was formerly a promoter of fashion shows, after parties and a local record spinner (DJ) in most of the so-called hottest clubs in Baltimore, MD. With all of the experience he has gained from his journey in music, Vons' direction began to change when he received a mandate to make music that would make a difference in the industry and society.

Von Vargas' music glorifies Life and leaves the average listener with true inspiration, substance and value. His raps include no expletives, yet his message is powerful and positive.
"When observing his ability to reach students through his raps… the response it elicits is Phenomenal,"… says Cheneeda Carter of the MD Educational Opportunity Center.
Von has shared stages with numerous mainstream shakers in the industry, admitting that every accomplishment is only by the Grace of God.
Von Vargas is bound to his purpose while he remains to be a vital component to this generation.

 
Discography Links

Echelon Boyz (Album Coming Soon)
Foreve'r Christiano  (Digital Album)
Casinos x Chrystal Le'ne Maxi Single
Get it Girl Maxi Single
Run Dmv Mixtape (Free)
Scarlet Letter Mixtape (2008 Free Download)


Discography

NEW Album Foreve'r Christiano (Coming Fall 2010)
NEW Run DMV Mixtape w/ M.O.G Showtime October 2010

NEW The Hit List Mixtape w/ DJ S.O.P  April 2010
The Scarlet Letter Mixtape August 2008
Welcome to The Embassy October 2007
The Harvest Vol.1 LP
  The Overlooked & Underrated Champ Mixtape
  Detroit Hoopz Movie Soundtrack & Score
  Changes w/ Dickies Workwear (Radio/ Television Hip-Hop Commercial)
  Gold Valley (Radio Hip-Hop Commercial)
  The Got Skillz Compilation (Changes Menswear)
  Charm City Classics

Awards:
1) Empowering Youth Award (The National Urban League) 2005
2) Free to Breathe Jam Fest ( The American Lung Association) 2006
3) Defeat The Violence Award (Mentoring Academics Athletic Partnership) 2003
4) Appreciation Award ( The Maryland Department of Juvenile Services) 2005
5) Mentoring with Style Award (Maryland State Department of Education) 2003

" When observing his ability to reach students through his raps…the response it elicits is Phenomenal!"
-Cheneeda Carter
Maryland Educational Opportunity Center

"Our sincere thanks and appreciation goes to Von Vargas for sharing his knowledge and music so that young people can make informed decisions and be empowered to make a difference in their own lives."
-National Urban League

" I really like his style of music…Von's a real m.o.G."
-Raven Symone
Actress and Pop-Recording Artist

" I don't know how they're treating you down in Baltimore, but this joint is Hot right here!!!"
-DJ Flex
WPGC 95.5 FM (Washington D.C. 's Radio Personality)