WHOAA

Take one look at this genre-bending, culture-shocking duo, and one could see how their name fits so appropriately. Hailing from Atlanta, Ga and Cincinnati, Ohio respectively, the artist known as “Dolla” and female vocalist “Ring” collectively make up the group titled WHOAA (pronounced WHOAA!). With their polished sound delivery and a eye-catching image oozing with commercial sensibility, equipped with a highly energetic stage presence, this duo is a like a breath of fresh air in today’s crowded music scene. Female member “Ring”, a fiery blonde, pop-rock diva with a “Britney meets Lita Ford” vocal edge, who formerly recorded under “Slim” Williams & Cash Money Records, brings out the sexier edge of WHOAA. The other half, “Dolla”, a genre-defying lyricist with retro 80s “funk” flair, with much versatility that seamlessly weaves Hip-Hop and Pop, brings quite the dynamic balance to WHOAA.

Ashley “Ring” was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, graduate of SCPA (School for Creative and Performing Arts), signed her first record deal with Cash Money Records in 2008 and released music featuring Lil Wayne in 2011. Ring first worked with “Dolla”, during a late night recording session for Dolla’s former group EDUBB in 2013. After re-discovering past history and noticing the organic chemistry, Ring mentioned the idea to record more songs, which ultimately spawned into a full project, and newly formed duo, WHOAA was born.

Darren “Dolla” Murphy was born in Decatur, GA, and began his musical pursuit at the age of 16, as a founding member of the successful independent hip-hop trio, EDUBB. Mostly known from their “tongue in cheek” contributions, the viral hit “Whooty”, with over 12 million youtube views, Dolla not only performed with the group, but also handled all marketing and brand duties and co-owned the independent label, selling over 80,000 digital units.

WHOAA’s debut EP “The Day It All Changed” is a culmination of a new sound that’s been crafted over the course of a year, with emerging producer Mike Maven (production credits for Atlantic Records/Warner Brothers). Leading off with their catchy “Let the Good Times Roll”, Top-40 radio anthem “Crusin” and the heavy ballad “Unconditional”, in which the group hopes will inspire a new movement for love and peace in today’s hectic times. “We just want to spread Love and Hope to those that might be Hopeless, to show the world that music is still a healing tool”, says Ring. With an acronym like “When Hearts Open And Attract”, its clear to see WHOAA, is on a mission with ambitious intentions. The band is currently focused on their highly energetic stage set along with touring festivals abroad, with hopes of winning over new fans, upon releasing the EP in the Fall/Winter of 2015.