Az Izz

Originally from Georgetown, Guyana, rising rap star Azizz traveled to America at 13 and spent his adolescent years in New Jersey, honing his natural musical talents. Music had always been a driving force in Azizz’s life and his passion evolved from being a young DJ, to becoming one of the founding members of the Outsidaz, a hip-hop group from Newark, NJ. Best known for its affiliation with Detroit rappers Eminem and Bizarre, the Outsidaz went on to leave a mark in hip-hop history.

The group formed in 1991 after underground rappers Young Zee and Pacewon became friends at a party following a lengthy microphone battle that ended in a tie. The rappers chose to unite, bringing in Azizz, D.U. and Rah Digga. Throughout its run, the Outsidaz worked alongside rap industry stars such as Method Man, Redman and the Refugee Camp, and the group made its first commercial appearance as guest artists on the song “Cowboys” off the Fugees multi-platinum sophomore LP “The Score.” In addition, Outsidaz collaborated with Detroit’s D-12 on various projects, and Eminem gives a nod to Outsidaz in three songs on his debut album “The Slim Shady LP.”

Throughout Azizz’s life, hip-hop was the one thing that made sense. Artists such as Heavy D, KRS One, LL Cool J inspired him to be the rapper he is today, and his first solo album “Born In Sin, Shaped In Iniquity,” showcases lyrical gifts. The versatility of themes featured on the album range from joy, despair, and pain peppered with political perspectives. Azizz likens himself to reggae legend Bob Marley, whose thought-provoking lyrics forced fans to question their reality and the consequences of their actions.

Rather than just entertain his fans, Azizz hopes to make people stop and think. His family came to America for a better life and that is exactly what he intends to do for his community. His first charter is to run events for local charities like the Center of Autism, along with fostering and developing some of the amazing local talent he has signed to his record label, Green Team Records.