Jaron Ikner, a visionary artist and entrepreneur based in Phoenix, Arizona, is a dynamic force in the creative industries. With a career spanning music, film, writing, and promotion, Ikner exemplifies the modern "Renaissance Man," seamlessly merging his talents across multiple disciplines. As the founder of Starstruck Multimedia and Star Camp Creative Labs, he has become a pivotal figure in Arizona's multimedia landscape, inspiring and guiding artists through his innovative approach to content creation and creative empowerment.
Ikner's journey in music began as a means of coping with personal loss, channeling his emotions into his art. Performing under the moniker "Black One," he quickly rose through the ranks of Arizona's hip-hop scene, crafting music that delves into the multiverse concept—a theme that allows him to explore different versions of himself through his lyrical narratives. His unique sound has earned him opportunities to perform alongside major artists such as The Underachievers, Freddie Gibbs, The Game, Curren$y, Big Boi of OutKast, and Talib Kweli, cementing his reputation as a rising star in the music world.
In addition to his success in music, Ikner is a skilled filmmaker with a degree in film production and screenwriting. He has produced a variety of short films and music videos, including the acclaimed short film Madness, which won the Maricopa Artists of Promise Award in 2019. He also contributed as a producer on The System. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Ikner adapted by shifting his focus to producing his debut feature film, The Bond.
As the driving force behind Starstruck Multimedia, Ikner has created a powerful platform that has garnered over 9 million views, helping artists monetize their music and build their brands. His commitment to supporting the local creative community is evident in his role as curator of the Tucson Hip Hop Festival in 2017 and 2018, where he played a key role in elevating the festival’s status within Arizona’s vibrant music scene.
"HE’S THE ONLY RAPPER “REPRESENTING ARIZONA SUNSETS,” AND CREATING A COHESIVE OLD PUEBLO COMMUNITY IN HOPES OF EVERYONE RISING TOGETHER. HIS PROLIFIC CANON FEATURES MASTERFUL FREESTYLES AND HERBALLY-LACED AURAL ACROBATICS THAT BLUR LINES BETWEEN HIP HOP AND EDM..." -B.S. ELIOT- TUCSON WEEKLY
Ikner's collaborative work extends beyond the realm of independent artistry. He has partnered with prominent brands like Raw Papers, the NFL, and Universatile Music, further expanding his influence and professional network. His ability to navigate both mainstream and underground markets speaks to his versatility as a creative professional.
"... THERE ARE BRIGHT SPOTS ON THE ARIZONA HIP-HOP HORIZON AND BLACK ONE, REAL NAME JARON IKNER, IS CERTAINLY ONE OF THEM." -BRENT CALLWOOD, TUCSON WEEKLY
The Many Faces Of Jaron Ikner
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Ikner's expertise and creative vision have also attracted collaborations with renowned brands such as Raw Papers, The NFL, and Universatile Music. These high-profile collaborations have broadened his professional network and cemented his position as a formidable creative force.
“BLACK ONE DRAWS FROM DIFFERENT SECTIONS OF THE RECORD STORE THAN YOUR AVERAGE BACKPACKER. AS A RAPPER WHO SAMPLES FLEETWOOD MAC, NEIL YOUNG AND JEFFERSON AIRPLANE, IT'S PRACTICALLY GUARANTEED THAT HE'S GOT SOMETHING FOR EVERYBODY.” - LENNI ROSENBLUM, PHOENIX NEW TIMES