Name: Rashard Bradshaw
Birthday: October 12, 1990
Major: Fashion Studies with a Journalism minor
Hometown: Originally Teaneck, but currently Englewood, NJ
Rashard Bradshaw may not be a name that’s familiar to you, but his widely known career as Cakes Da Killa just might be. Rashard, currently in his last semester at Montclair, has made quite the name for himself both on and off campus. With Europe in his plans for after graduation, it’s safe to say he’ll be more than just a campus celebrity.
Rashard chose Fashion Studies as his major since it was his first real dream. “I thought I was destined to be a menswear designer,” he said. That dream however was crushed when he was rejected from FIT. Rashard found a home at Montclair with their fashion department, but when he realized that they did not have a fashion design concentration, that dream came tumbling down. “I stuck it out because I did like learning about other aspects of the fashion industry and the business of it all.”
Not just limiting himself to the world of fashion, Rashard also branched into the arts, namely the Arts and Entertainment section of The Montclarion. He expanded this love for words and journalism through books and late night television. He involved himself with The Montclarion to build a resume and gain experience, starting as a staff writer and working towards his current position as an editor. Rashard plans to continue writing post-graduation. “I want to become a journalist because I like using my words to give a voice to artists and trends not familiar or accepted in mainstream culture.”
As for his career as Cakes Da KIlla, Rashard’s career took a turn for success around his junior year. He had the opportunity to be featured on a mix tape compilation called Downtown Mayhem. “I was really nervous about it,” he comments “but the feedback was great.” Shortly after, he released his first solo project Easy Bake Oven followed by his first album The Eulogy which was released about a month ago.
An accomplishment for someone so young, Rashard does all of his own bookings, press kits and whatever else comes his way. “It’s kind of a double edged sword” he says. Despite the fact the work can get tedious and frustrating, not many rappers have seen the opportunities he has. It’s a freeing and independent experience that allows him to not “feel like a puppet.” Rashard frequents the New York City area and is no stranger to the stage.
Balancing two budding careers and being a student can be taxing, and Rashard admits that the student aspect has been the most challenging. Looking forward to graduation, he’s ready to start kicking his life into full speed. “Being Cakes Da Killa has opened doors for me that wouldn’t necessarily be possibilities for just Rashard Bradshaw.”
After graduation, Rashard is headed to Europe. “I just signed a contract with my agency based in Berlin so I will travel there a little after graduation. I plan on recording a new project and making more connections and just living.” With such success and promise, Rashard should have no problem finding exactly what he’s looking for.