Ecco2kzgf, professionally known as Ecco2K, is a multifaceted Swedish artist renowned for his contributions to music, fashion, and visual arts. Born in 1994 or 1995 in Stockholm, Sweden, he has established himself as a singer, songwriter, record producer, designer, and visual artist. His innovative approach and distinctive style have significantly influenced contemporary art and culture.
Significance in Contemporary Music and Art
Ecco2K’s work transcends traditional genre boundaries, blending elements of art pop, cloud rap, and experimental music. His ethereal vocals and avant-garde aesthetics have garnered a dedicated following and critical acclaim. Beyond music, his ventures into fashion and visual arts have further solidified his status as a visionary in the creative industry.
Early Life and Background
Family Heritage and Upbringing
Zak Arogundade Gaterud was born to a Swedish mother, a makeup artist, and a British-Nigerian father who is a graphic designer, writer, and architect. He spent most of his childhood in the Hornstull area of Stockholm, with a brief period living in London with his father. This multicultural upbringing exposed him to diverse artistic influences from an early age.
Initial Exposure to Art and Music
At the age of five, Zak’s father introduced him to graphic design software, igniting his passion for visual arts. He began creating album covers and logos for imaginary bands, laying the foundation for his future endeavors in design and music. This early exposure played a crucial role in shaping his artistic trajectory.
Formation of Krossad
Meeting Benjamin Reichwald (Bladee)
In 2004, while attending school in Stockholm, Zak met Benjamin Reichwald, who would later become known as Bladee. The two shared a mutual interest in music and art, leading them to collaborate on various creative projects.
Musical Style and Early Performances
Together, Zak and Benjamin formed the punk-oriented project Krossad, which translates to “crushed” in Swedish. Their music was characterized by its raw energy and DIY ethos, reflecting their youthful experimentation and passion for punk aesthetics.
Release of Demo CD in 2007
In 2007, Krossad released a demo CD, marking their initial foray into the music scene. Although the project was short-lived, it served as a significant stepping stone in Zak’s musical journey, providing valuable experience in music production and performance.
Fashion Endeavors
Creation of Alaska Fashion Label
At the age of 16, Zak founded his first fashion label, Alaska, a streetwear brand that showcased his unique design sensibilities. Despite his young age, he successfully managed the brand by communicating with Chinese factory managers online, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and global outlook.
Role at Eytys as Designer and Photo Retoucher
Zak’s foray into fashion led him to join the Swedish sneaker brand Eytys, where he worked as a designer and photo retoucher. His contributions to the brand further honed his skills in design and visual storytelling, complementing his pursuits in music and art.
