Chali 2na (Live Band)

Chali 2na is one of hip-hop’s most distinctive voices, known for his unmistakable deep baritone delivery and sharp, rhythmic flow. Born Charles Stewart Jr. in Chicago and raised in Los Angeles, he first found creative expression through graffiti before moving into music as a way to stay focused and away from street life.

He rose to prominence as a founding member and frontman of the acclaimed alternative hip-hop group Jurassic 5, whose blend of classic boom-bap beats, tight group harmonies, and positive energy helped define West Coast underground hip-hop in the late ’90s and early 2000s. The group’s major-label debut Quality Control is widely regarded as a landmark release in the genre.

Alongside Jurassic 5, Chali 2na co-founded the genre-blending band Ozomatli, mixing hip-hop with Latin, funk, rock, and world music influences. His powerful voice and charismatic presence quickly made him one of the most recognizable figures in alternative hip-hop, leading to collaborations with a wide range of artists across electronic, funk, reggae, and dance music.

As a solo artist, Chali 2na has continued to evolve his sound while staying true to his roots in classic lyricism and live performance. Whether on stage, in the studio, or collaborating across genres, he remains a respected and influential figure whose voice is instantly recognizable around the world.