In an age where artists are often boxed into one skill set, Aviated Keyaan is proving you can wear multiple hats—and wear them well. The rapper, graphic designer, and clothing creator from Lorain County, Ohio, is a one-man powerhouse with a blue-collar ethic, a DIY spirit, and a deep love for music and culture. From designing his own merch to producing and recording his own tracks, Aviated Keyaan has forged a path that’s as creative as it is relentless.
The Comeback Artist
Aviated Keyaan’s journey into hip-hop began long before his recent resurgence. With a background rooted in music—spending years in school band and drawing inspiration from iconic artists like Pharrell, Cam’ron, Wiz Khalifa, and old-school funk legends—music was always in his blood. But like many artists, life threw him a few curveballs. After taking a hiatus from the scene, Keyaan made a powerful return in 2024, armed with a fresh perspective and a reignited passion for both music and design.
“I’ve always been inspired by creatives who were unapologetically themselves,” he says. That ethos runs through everything he creates, from his music to his merch line (www.aviatedclothing.com). It’s not just about putting out content; it’s about building a full, cohesive brand that speaks to his authenticity and grind.
The One-Man Label
In an industry where budgets can make or break independent artists, Aviated Keyaan found his edge by becoming a one-man label. “I record myself, design my own cover art and merch, and even shoot and edit my own content,” he explains. “It’s not always easy, but it allows me to focus my limited resources in the right places.” This hands-on approach isn’t just about saving money—it’s about complete creative control.
That hustle has opened doors. He’s performed alongside artists like 2 Chainz, Styles P & Jadakiss, and Kirko Bangzand collaborated with hip-hop veteran Agallah The Don Bishop, appearing on the RED V mixtape. Each milestone is a reminder of how far he’s come—and how far he still plans to go.
What’s Next?
With his latest EP GAMEGIVING already out and a follow-up project—Aviated Altitude 2.0—set to drop in late spring, Aviated Keyaan is gearing up for a big year. His goal? To continue growing his presence in the national hip-hop scene and to book his first independent tour. “I just want my music and merch to be recognizable in hip-hop culture,” he shares. “Being able to reach more people and connect with them through my art would be a dream come true.”
But perhaps the most inspiring part of Keyaan’s story is his message: Take your dreams into your own hands and don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. Whether he’s creating beats or designing the latest piece for Aviated Clothing, it’s clear Keyaan’s altitude is only going up.
