As an Artist: Mohamed “EsMod” Abdo is an Ethiopian rapper-violinist in Chicago, IL. His blend of conscious hip-hop and classical violin makes his music a one-of-a-kind experience for rap enthusiasts and music lovers alike.

Known for his motivational lyrics full of faith, positivity, and affirmations, Mohamed first began releasing music under the alias “EsMod” in 2018. The Georgia-born artist released his highly anticipated debut album, “Table For One”, on January 26, 2024, which has accrued over 46,900 streams since it’s release. EsMod had his radio debut with Table For One across multiple stations, and went on a tour with Music Export Memphis in Summer of 2024. From there, he released his sophomore album, “Safe Travels”, in September of 2025 which sent him on his first solo headlining tour across the Mid-South. Across both releases, EsMod has gained considerable notability through his energetic and passionate live performances that make rooms full of people mosh and cry in the same night.

“My mission? To heal the world through music. How am I planning on doing that? Great question. By sharing my personal life experiences in hopes that it finds the people who feel like they are alone in their struggles. By touching one person at a time. An easy life is never promised, but the difficulty in one's path is only granted to test those who are capable of rising above their hardships. It gives us a chance to live instead of idling away a meaningless, challenge-less life. And most of these hardships we aren’t capable of overcoming alone. We need support. We need empathy and love. Sometimes that can come in the form of a person or a group of people. Other times it can come in the form of your favorite song that helps you feel seen when you’re in a dark time, or feel motivated to get to the end of your shift. That’s what I want my music to be for the people who find it. That life support. That hand that pulls you out of the water and onto the shore.” 

EsMod pulls inspiration for his art from a vast variety of sounds and genres from Joey Badass to Hiatus Kaiyote, and from Childish Gambino to Joe Hisaishi. For the coming years, EsMod has relocated to Chicago, IL with the goal of reaching new heights with his purpose.

As a Brand: Esmod is a word that means “Is Change.” Change can be a very difficult thing to process, even when we need it. It’s hard, but the growth that can come from a change in our lives, both big and small, should be embraced. Although the adjustment itself can be difficult, who we become afterwards is the true reward of life— A reward we get the chance to receive time and time again in our lifespans. That is what the Esmod brand is all about.

As a Person: When not on stage or parked in front of his laptop running his business, Esmod is a man of many talents and interests. Outside of art, he enjoys running track, rock climbing, skateboarding, volleyball, Studio Ghibli, participating in gaming tournaments, and streaming his favorite video games.