JAMES K. ALLEN
(SPOATYMAC)
Is a Native of Las Vegas, Nevada, alumnus of the historical Talladega College, author, illustrator, radio personality and music producer. As a kid, Spoaty noticed he had a natural ability to draw and create cartoon characters from scratch.
While in the 3rd Grade, his art teacher challenged the class to author and illustrate a book. Excitedly, Spoaty accepted the challenge and quickly completed what would become his first book entitled "Cooley the Ant." From the mind of a 3rd grader, the story was simply about an ant refusing to gather food for the winter, resulting in him being left in the cold to starve.
As a middle school student, Spoaty gained more of an interest in the Hip Hop scene and soon his dream of becoming a cartoonist was placed on hold. His musical pursuit would span throughout his childhood and into his adult years. It was during this time, he established his independent record label (Heat City Records). Under Heat City Records, Spoaty released a variety of LP's and landed a job as an on-air personality at a local radio station.
The Heat City Records line-up included projects from a variety of artists; including... four Spoatymac solos, 2Sense, Ms. Understood, Doe Doe, Felina and the label's one and only kid friendly project, Chuc Taylor & Mighty Mouse with "The Allstar" LP. All of which are available on www.cdbaby.com, www.amazon.com, www.itunes.com, www.youtube.com, etc.
Following a successful music career and several recommendations from family and friends, Spoaty decided it was time to tap into his other talents. Soon after, he began sketching a new and improved Cooley the Ant with a twist. Taking the readers on a detailed journey throughout the life of Hip Hop artist, Spoatymac aka Cooley.
Spoaty credits his success and drive to his mother and #1 fan Verna Jean and uncle Greg (May they continue to rest in paradise). While on earth, they never failed to remind him of his artistic talents, which motivated him to start drawing again. This time, his years of writing music, made it easy to not only illustrate but author his books as well.
After sitting on the Cooley illustrations for several years, Spoaty approached his long time friend, Jazz Matazz to assist with co-authoring and publishing his childrens books. Jazz Matazz was interested and before you know it, Spoaty's dream became a reality. Cooley the Ant, was in motion.
"God gave me multiple talents...may as well share them with the world." - Spoatymac