Canadian DJ/Producer Ekali, aka Nathan Shaw, experienced a rapid rise to recognition after receiving a writing credit on Drake's If You're Reading This It's Too Late. Shaw made his first foray into music at a young age, beginning to learn the violin at 12 years old. The instrument's appeal didn't last long, but while growing up he did persevere with guitar and various other instruments, and played in a number of bands throughout high school, eventually securing some session bass work in Vancouver.