Sneaker Fiend Magazine: HaZiQ aLi Bio/Vid/Downloads

Can music have a message and still move the crowd? It's an age-old question in rap. While some have their doubts, D.C. rapper Haziq Ali knows it's possible. Already, along with his business partner-in-rhyme Tabi Bonney, this innovative wordsmith is forging a new rap renaissance built on thoughtful lyrics that dont abandon hot beats and party anthems, the bedrock of successful contemporary rap music. "I'm really tryin' to be that perfect mixture between the streets and the spirit, somebody called what I make 'U-Can-Do-It! Music', and I loved that... with so much going on in the world, people deserve to be inspired", Haziq says.

The bio continues after the jump. And some of his music and a video are also included.

Ali, who currently splits his time between D.C., and Atlanta, wants to push rap's boundaries in other ways as well. While recognizing that sampling has been an important staple of rap, and has played a key role in its success, Ali wants to create more opportunities for live musicians in the genre. This live sound, popular in the south, is a key element to his emerging sound. He says, "I want to combine down south musical sensibilities with up north-East Coast lyricism and word play."

If there is one rap tradition Ali has followed wholeheartedly without hesitation, it's performing live. From New York City to North Carolina to Atlanta, Ali has honed the skills of the live show, which includes tours like Rock The Bells with 50 Cent, Killer Mike, Kanye West, Dead Prez, and others. Haziq's uncomparable delivery has also captured the ear of music lovers worldwide through heavy circulation on the hottest mixtapes by DJ Rondevu, DJ Scream and Big Mike among other heavyweight notables.

Be sure to log onto http://haziqali.wordpress.com/ to watch as Ali showcases his ability to move the crowd.