Biography
Born Jonathan Owens in Oakland, Casual is one of the most technically gifted MCs to emerge from the Bay Area. His 1994 debut Fear Itself arrived in the same period as ’93 ’til Infinity, cementing the Hieroglyphics crew as the dominant voice of West Coast underground hip-hop.
Known for rapid-fire delivery, complex rhyme schemes, and an unmistakable Oaklandness, Casual has continued to release music and perform for over three decades — always under the Hiero banner, always independent.
His 2026 album Black Magic is out now — featuring the single “It’s Big.” Stream it on Spotify and Apple Music.
Selected Discography