Singer/songwriter Imaad Wasif [ tickets ] might hail from Vancouver and now call Los Angeles home, but his roots reach back to India. Raised by two artist parents who bucked the traditional Indian system, Wasif turned to music from an early age while facing the rigors of growing up in Palm Desert, CA. Nowadays, he creates his own imagery-filled tunes, attracting fans from all walks of life, among them Oscar-nominated actress Frances McDormand.

Wasif released his second album, "Strange Hexes," early this year. He's currently touring the US in support of the self-released work.