ASKM Publishing is an independent music publishing company that’s owned and operated by independent music publisher A’Ishah Karriem aka A’Ishah Songstress. It was started and founded by myself in June of 2009 at the tender age of 17.

ASKM Publishing specializes in artist ownership and creative control. The primary genres we focus on are R&B, Soul, Hip Hop and Urban Pop. However, we are open to representing and working with all songwriters, composers and artists of all genres.

As owner of ASKM Publishing, A’Ishah Songstress I’m more than a music publisher. I’m also a singer, songwriter, composer, pianist, author, music teacher and music historian. I’ve been singing since 9 years old. I’ve been writing songs since I was 13 years old, which is the year I decided to start studying the business side of music. I’m also a classically trained vocalist, but R&B is my 1st love in regards to music. I’ve been classically trained since 16 years old. This is the same age I began to study piano and music theory.

One of the main reasons I decided to get into music publishing and start my own company was due to the constant “no’s” I was receiving from established industry producers and managers when I would shop my demo as a songwriter trying to pitch songs to mainstream artists. I noticed as long as I was viewed as an “unknown songwriter”, I would never make any progress. So I decided to join ASCAP, learn the business side of the music industry and start a brand and company where my music would speak for itself, while also working with other artists and inspiring them to do the same.

My vision at ASKM Publishing is to enable songwriters, composers and artists with the proper tools and resources to prosper. This includes behind and in front of the scenes within the industry.

While being a music publisher, at heart I’m a singer, songwriter and pianist first, and very much still a student. As music is an never learning course and journey. I’m currently a student of legendary vocal coach Sherry Wilson Butler.