The Atlanta-based hip-hop group is extending its community advocacy through Olu's health and wellness brand COMPXSS and environmental efforts via the EarthGang Foundation.
Olu and Doctur Dot formed EARTHGANG after a school field trip in their freshman year of high school, and since then, the group has been honored with their own day in Atlanta.
While the musicians have amassed numerous musical accolades, their work beyond the stage has also brought them significant recognition.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Olu realized that despite the group's upward trajectory, something was still missing.
“I had reached a point in my life and career where I felt I had achieved a lot, but spiritually, I hadn't grown as much as I had before,” Olu tells. “I think it's because I was focused on external appearances.”
This feeling led Olu to undertake a 200-hour yoga instruction course in Bali rather than locally.
“I could have done it here in Atlanta over several weekends and got my 200,” says Olu. “But I needed a complete reset, a break. The school I attended focused on blending Eastern philosophy with the Western world, emphasizing that yoga is a lifestyle, not just cool stretches.”
While in Bali, Olu decided to create COMPXSS, a company teaching mindfulness, movement, and wellness to his fan base. This initiative has attracted not only his fans but also professional teams like the Toronto Raptors and Memphis Grizzlies, who have sought his teachings.
In addition to COMPXSS, Olu and EARTHGANG have established the EarthGang Foundation, aiming to combat environmental injustices through climate and environmental conservation.
“We created the foundation in 2022 under our foundation president, Dr. Jaz, who has a PhD in environmental science,” says Olu. “She has been a blessing for us because, as artists, we don't have all the knowledge. Our role is to connect our fan base with experts and resources to create community.”
Their work through these ventures earned the group their own day and an invitation to Vice President Kamala Harris’s home to discuss climate awareness and Indigenous peoples.
“That was never on my vision board,” says Olu. “We’ve always wanted to give back because that's our roots—community. Even with hundreds of thousands of fans worldwide, we aim to build community, and the city recognized us for that, which was incredible.”
Looking ahead, Olu and EARTHGANG plan to release their album, "Perfect Fantasy", in the coming months and continue collaborating with other organizations to expand the EarthGang Foundation.
The Quran - Chapter At-Taghabun : 12
Obey Allah and obey the Messenger! But if you turn away, then Our Messenger’s duty is only to deliver ˹the message˺ clearly.
