Music:

Member Since: 12/11/2005
Band Website: izzygood.com
Band Members:

IZZY

- The Urban Psalmist...His life is replete with the drama of a Hollywood movie script. He has already overcome a physical handicap, homelessness and clinical depression. But dont look for a tragic ending to this story. IZZY has taken control of destinys pen and is scripting a story of perseverance, determination and triumph! This singer, songwriter and producer is set to storm the gospel music industry with the Fred Hammond meets John Legend vibe off his debut album, In Awe Of You. A third generation preachers kid, IZZYs great-grandfather, Bishop Brumfield Johnson, founded the Mt. Calvary Holy Churches of America and his father is currently the Sr. Pastor of Peace Baptist Church in Washington, DC. Born with open sores and his hip popped out of joint, doctors held little hope of him leading a normal life. His parents were cautiously advised of the limits his disability would impose on his future. His birth name was chosen in honor of the biblical patriarch, who suffered from the same impairment after wrestling with God for a blessing. Like his namesake who overcame adversity, IZZY, too, would defy the odds. He not only learned to walk without a limp, he was even able to run track and play football! His father, an army sergeant, was assigned to Germany when IZZY was three years old. His formative yearsboth developmentally and musically were spent in Heidelberg and Manheim. Despite enjoying an idyllic and stable home life, young IZZY simply did not fit in with his peers. While other boys his age enjoyed video games and sports, he preferred passing time in the library listening to classical music. His differences made him the target of endless taunts. Eventually discouraged by his inability to connect with his peers, he suffered from depression and even attempted suicide in his preteens. Empowered by his music, he persevered. Through music, I realized there was so much more to live for I saw myself singing in front of crowds. And that thought kept me going. In a fifth grade career project, he boldly proclaimed himself to be the next Quincy Jones. At the time, the only thing I could do was sing, but I told everyone that one day I would put the mic down and produce music. IZZYs natural musical gifts belie his lack of extensive formal training. He began playing the saxophone at the age of twelve and immediately integrated the then popular sounds of techno and house into his style. In 1991, when his family returned to the United States and moved to the DC area, he added the spicy sounds of funk and go-go to his already eclectic musical flavor. IZZY enrolled in the US army where he was first introduced to the basics of record engineering and he later obtained his degree in the subject at a technical college. During his early years of ministry in DC, he was a member of the gospel group Psalms, along with his older brother and a friend, Durrell Babbs (a.k.a. R&B sensation, Tank). In 2005, he was a featured artist at Bishop T.D. Jakes MegaFest Mega Youth Experience. His television appearances include: BETs Bobby Jones Gospel and Lift Every Voice and hes recently been featured in Jawns Juicethe Gospel must-read column. In Awe Of You is IZZYs musical memoir told through a melodious symphony of swinging beats, hypnotic hooks, crooning harmonies and strikingly transparent lyrics. The title cut is a harmonious worship experience whose power and beauty lies in his simple, yet powerful delivery. You Are and Praise Party are downright infectious, with their feel good energy and funky rhythms. His urban infused covers of Heaven (BeBe & CeCe Winans) and Love You Forever (Fred Hammond) are equally impressive. Clearly undaunted by the task of ministering these gospel favorites, he masterfully connects with the music and in doing so makes them his own. IZZY hopes to reach those who feel forgotten by the church and society. This hope is reflected in the track "We Need You" a soothing, yet thoughtful commentary on the heartbreak and disillusionment that can lead to the street life. An eclectic mix of soulful ballads and urban rockers, In Awe Of You challenges the boundaries of traditional Gospel music but most importantly, it challenges the listener to stand in awe of the God of eternal hope and infinite possibility.
Influences: Vocals: Kim Burrell/ Brandy/ Isaac Caree/ John. P. Kee/ J Moss/ My older brother Rev. Michael C. Bell-------Beatz: Kirk Franklin/ J.Moss/ Rodney Jerkins/ James Poyser/ Timbaland/ Missy/ Rich Harrison/ Kanye West
Sounds Like: Izzy The Artist and Music Minister: Praise and Worship / Neo-soul / hip-hopIzzy the producer:Contemporary Christian / Hip-hop / neo-soul / Crunk&B / R&B / Rock / Techno/ whatever as long as it's inspirational and life changing

Record Label: VGR/Jordan Entertainment Group/Koch Records
Type of Label: Indie