Za'

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When the streetz first heard Z to the A also known as Young Za [One half of musical duo The Mill] on a new debut track entitled "Ride Tonight", released in 2003, the talented young lyricist officially made his presence known with his poetic and vividly effortless flow delivery. The manner is which Young Za chooses to convey his lyrics could be compared to a motion picture, in that his audience can both experience and distinguish the manner in which his thoughts are vocalized through his lyrical flow delivery.
Since this initial exposure, the streetz have been eagerly awaiting for yet another sample of what Young Za would next produce. Young Za holds under his belt a number of appearances on numerous underground records and mix tapes. Through circulation of his work through underground distribution, Young Za has gained recognition in the streetz as one of the illest rappers from the "O" State. Advocates compare his style to that of a younger Nas. Born Isayah Hickson, Za spent his youth in the villainous Edgewood Housing Projects, where he grew up the youngest of two. Dealing with lifes many hindrances, Za was influenced by many outside factors at an early age. Music prevailed as the one fixture that was inevitable to grab his attention. Za further expanded on his musical talents by venturing into singing, rapping, break dancing, and lastly into producing beats.
Za's musical career began as a oneman band. Performing at the tender age of 2, Za would perform his favorite tunes in front of those willing to witness his young talent.
By age 15, Za became involved with the Rap group Undefine. One of the group members happened to be a dear friend and family member, Micheal Lykes [The other half of The Mill]. During Za's involvement with the group, he worked closely with the other members to assist in the writing of musical lyrics and the recording process. Still unsure of lifes direction, Za decided to let music take a back seat while he focused on future life goals.
Time elapsed and it was soon 1996, when two inspirational albums were released that captured Za's attention. The albums were Nas It was Written and Jay-z Reasonable Doubt. Being inspired by two of Hip-Hops legends, Za studied and began to focus on his true love of music. He then searched into his creative talents, a skill that would take years to master. From free styling on the blocks and participating in open mic sessions, Za began his growth as a versatile artist, Not only do I make music for the streetz, but I make music for the world that comes from my heart. When you hear me, I want you to feel the pain, the struggle, and the hustle.
In 2006, Za managed to find time between working and attending college as a full- student time to begin recording his first project with Michael Lykes. The two now came to form the power group The Mill. Za stated that, "If it wasnt for Mike encouraging me throughout the years to keep writing, I think I would have stopped years ago." As the streetz continued to get more chaotic, The Mill released Grandma Said, which tells a tail about the influential and huge part grandmothers play in the lives of young black males.
Another track entitled, We all do wrong, is a piece that discusses the issues that we all have with regard to learning to deal with lifes regrets and how sometimes doing wrong makes things right. In Na-sha's "Fire remix", Za displays how he flows over tracks so heavenly.
"To me, being a complete artist is about expanding ones horizons and displaying versatility. My goal is to reach maximum self-actualization. Ive been adopted and sworn in by my hood and my people, to deliver truth, gutta, flamboyant, political, and the heart wrenching stories of our times. I am a certified ghetto spokesman."
Young Za is focused on steppin outside of any box and is ready to carry the "O" State and the North Side into providence.