Biography
Ann Arbor-based DJ Graffiti ranked among Michigan’s leading hip-hop turntablists throughout the 2000s, cultivating a following while pursuing business and law studies at the University of Michigan. Born Martin L. Smith and grounded in jazz percussion, he first began spinning records in 1997 across the wider Detroit region. He transitioned fluidly into full-scale mixing, launched the independent Bling Free imprint, and contributed to 7 Heads alongside J-Live, Asheru, and El Da Sensei. His run of Bling Free mixtapes secured the nickname “underground mixtape king of Michigan,” and Real Detroit Weekly readers named him Best DJ in Detroit for 2010. Beyond collaborations with area MCs, Smith shared bills with Jay-Z, Eminem, Beyoncé, Snoop Dogg, Big Sean, Lupe Fiasco, J. Cole, A$AP Rocky, and Dave Chappelle.
Singles
