Real Name: Ricky Murdock Throughout his career, Askari X has never shield away from confrontation. The Oakland rapper first gained notoriety at age sixteen, when he dropped the pro-Black, anti-government classic, Ward of the State (1992.) Boasting fearless lyrics and a militant Islamic bent, the album identified Askari as an enemy of the establishment and an advocate for oppressed peoples everywhere. Unfortunately, Askari wasn’t able to enjoy the project’s success, as he caught a three-year bid immediately after its release.