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Fashawn's debut album, Boys Meets World, was heralded by critics and fans alike as one of the best albums of 2009 for its gritty, street-wise and intelligent rhymes. Some even compared his introductory opus to Nas' brilliant Illmatic. It was enough for XXL to name Fashawn to its list of hip hop's best freshman.

Like many hip hop musicians, Exile grew up around music. His father released what are now sought-after 45s in the 1960s and Ex's grandfather, Alberico Manfredi, taught music and played in bands ranging from Mariachi to traditional Italian music. By 15 he secured a turntable and some tape decks and started creating tape loops.

They're both in town next week for a whirlwind tour.

Check the vid for Fashawn's Samsonite Man here.