Asa

Matti Mikael Salo (born 1980), professionally known as Asa and previously as Avain, is a Finnish rapper, record producer and singer. He is also a member of hip hop and reggae group Jätkäjätkät.

Career beginnings

In the early 2000s, Salo was signed to Warner Music Finland. Under his initial stage name Avain, he released his debut album Punainen tiili (The Red Brick) in 2001. With its socially conscious lyrics, the album is considered to be one of the most important Finnish hip hop albums of all time. Soon after its release, Salo parted ways with his record company and went on a few years hiatus.

Later career

While the rights to his former stage name remained at Warner Music, Salo emerged in 2004 with his current alias Asa.

Personal life In 2006, Asa was fined for possession of marijuana, cocaine and hash.

Selected discography

Solo albums