Anthony Cruz, better known by his stage name AZ, stands as a pivotal figure in the history of East Coast hip hop. Born on March 9, 1972, in Bedford–Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, AZ has carved out a legacy marked by lyrical prowess and a distinctive voice that continues to resonate within the rap community.
Early Life and Influences
AZ's upbringing in the vibrant cultural tapestry of Brooklyn significantly influenced his musical journey. Born to an African-American mother and an Afro-Dominican father, he spent his formative years in East New York, Brooklyn, alongside his mother and sister. From a young age, AZ exhibited a talent for writing rap lyrics, beginning his lyrical endeavors at just 12 years old. His early education at Eli Whitney High School, where he crossed paths with fellow Brooklyn rapper Jay-Z, also played a crucial role in shaping his artistic development.
Breakthrough with Nas and "Illmatic"
The early 1990s marked a turning point for AZ, as he formed a close friendship with Nas, a burgeoning rapper from Queens. This relationship would prove instrumental in AZ's career. Nas, who was working on his now-iconic debut album Illmatic, invited AZ to the studio, resulting in AZ's memorable verse on the track "Life's a Bitch." The song's success and Illmatic's critical acclaim brought AZ into the limelight, earning him a record deal with EMI Records.
Solo Success and Doe or Die
AZ's debut studio album, Doe or Die, released in 1995, showcased his lyrical dexterity and solidified his place in the hip hop world. The album received widespread critical acclaim, with its lead single "Sugar Hill" featuring Miss Jones, peaking at number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100. The single's success, further underscored by its gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), established AZ as a formidable solo artist.
The Firm and Continued Acclaim
In 1996, AZ joined forces with Nas, Foxy Brown, Cormega, and later Nature to form the New York City-based hip hop group The Firm. Their sole album, released in 1997, debuted at the top of the Billboard 200 chart, despite receiving mixed critical reviews. The group disbanded two years later, but the experience reinforced AZ's standing in the rap community.
Following the dissolution of EMI, AZ transitioned to its sister labels, Noo Trybe Records and Virgin Records. His second album, Pieces of a Man (1998), continued to receive critical acclaim, further cementing his reputation. AZ's subsequent albums, 9 Lives (2001) and Aziatic (2002), released under Motown and Universal Records respectively, maintained his artistic momentum. Notably, Aziatic featured "The Essence," a collaboration with Nas that earned a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group.
Legacy and Recognition
Despite his achievements, AZ has often been regarded as one of the most underrated rappers in hip hop. Online magazine About.com dubbed him the "Most Underrated [Rapper] of All Time" and included him in their "Top 50 MCs of Our Time (1987–2007)," reaffirming his status as a lyrical heavyweight.
AZ's journey from the streets of Brooklyn to the heights of hip hop acclaim is a testament to his talent, resilience, and enduring influence. His contributions to the genre, marked by his collaborations, solo projects, and unwavering dedication to his craft, have left an indelible mark on the world of hip hop. As he continues to inspire new generations of artists, AZ's legacy as an underrated yet iconic figure in rap remains firmly intact.
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