JERAZiK
Rapper/Singer, songwriter, beatboxer, piano-player, beat alchemist. Hip-Hop baby. I love music. Single. 5'10", 20 years old. Filipino, born in the US, residing in the Bay Area, California. Student at CCC, transferring to either UC Berkeley or SF State. Avid gamer. Modified my onyx Nintendo DS Lite to match the capabilities of a Sony PSP, homebrew FTW. Loves Anime and scary movies. Intrigued by the Japanese culture. Anything caught your attention yet? You let me know.
Tell me about your history? How did you get where you are now?
As far as my history goes, I started rapping/singing back in 7th Grade. My singing came from joining the choir afterschool. From there, I've always sung as I developed my vocal talent. My rapping spurred from an English teacher that encouraged me to keep on writing. I loved poetry, and she knew it, so she pushed me with it. Soon, rhymes just came out of my mouth like spit, so from there, I picked up beatboxing and rapping at the same time. That's pretty much how it started. I was influenced by Bone Thugs-N-Harmony's "Change The World," not to mention my partner-in-crime, D'Mize who's been with me this entire journey. Now I'm at the point where I share the stage with him, and my other partner-in-crime, MC. Together, we form the Troublecleff Emcees, however I do a lot of solo work myself, producing music, making instrumentals, and recording with other artists.
Have you performed live in front of an audience? Any special memories?
I perform live. My last performance was as a guest performer for the Pinoy Pop Superstar Finalist Jae Buensuceso at the Titan Auditorium in San Leandro, California. I also perform at college/highschool events as well as cultural festivals and parties. I love performing. It's a passion of mine. Music fuels me once I hit the stage. As far as special moments go, just getting on stage and going under that spotlight is the greatest feeling in the world. As soon as I put the mic to my lips, I lose myself to the beat and the lyrics. The crowd simply takes me away.
Your musical influences
My first and foremost would have to be my mom. She's always pushed me musically. She taught me how to sing and play the piano. I never really had any formal teaching in piano, but because of her, I kept on doing it. I eventually learned how to play by ear and sightread to an extent. My second influence would be my dad. His support keeps me going. Without his support, I wouldn't be where I am today. My siblings always bring a smile to my face when I see them move to my music. My friends are very important to me. I love collaborating with Ryan and Marllon. I also love hearing from my friends that they love my or our new tracks. It's so exhilarating.
What equipment do you use?
I use a beat-up white mic that originally came with my Packard Bell computer back in what, before the year 2000? I've been using it since and it's freakin' amazing. As far sound goes, I use Logitech speakers originally made for the PSP. For music recording and making, I use my Sony Vaoi.
Anything else?
If you would like to collaborate with JERAZiK, please visit his MySpace Music page. He is looking for well-versed rhymers and male/female vocalists. Aside from that, visit my MySpace Music Page at www.myspace.com/jerazik
