You might have seen this Hip-Hop and R&B duo performing live on the main stage of B.E.T.’s 106 and Park, Wild-Out- Wednesday competing with others for the chance to be seen and heard nationally in front of millions of viewers; an experience that many, giving this opportunity, would fight to receive. So how did these two artists team up to form such a unique combination?
Tony Hood, Also known as Terrence Antonio Pitts, was born on October 10th 1984 in Jacksonville, FL. His mother, Kelly Woods was a hard working single mother who relocated him and his siblings to Orlando, FL in search of a better life. His father-figure at the time was his uncle, Earl Brown; the only man he had grown to love and respect. Tony was a talented trombone player in his middle school band (he was 1st Chair.) He was also an avid poet whose words captured the heart of any reader. After graduating from high school his passion for music and writing lead him to form a rap group called “Draf Pikzâ” Sadly, at the age of twenty-one Tony Hood’s only father figure passed. But little did he know, while one door closed, another opened. That same year he met with his biological father, Henry Lee Hood; therefore creating his stage name Tony Hood.
Alize, was born Etzer Alize in Port-au-Prince, Haiti on February 5th 1987. His parents, Clergemoit, and Celiana Alizefled to the U.S for a better life. Like all natives of Haiti, leaving his country was one of the hardest things Alize had to do, especially since he was leaving behind one of his closest brothers, Fritz Alize. A few months later Alize’s siblings were able to join him in Orlando, FL. With seven people living in a one-bedroom apartment, and knowing very little English, Alize turned to music to keep his head up. “Me and my brothers used a tape recorder and a mini keyboard to record songs when we were kids,” says Alize. On his ninth birthday, he picked up the mic for the first time and sang in front of his church’s congregation. He had a voice. Too bad he didn’t take that voice seriously because in March of 2007 Alize was arrested for grand theft to the 3rd degree (trying to make some quick cash.) Luckily all charges were dropped and Alize was sent home. His life would never be the same again. He vowed to turn his life around.
It wasn’t until late 2007 the two would be introduced through mutual acquaintance, C.E.O. of Genesis Productions Fritz JR. Giving their audience the best of both worlds, Tony Hood N’ Alize have teamed up to become the first male R&B and Hip-Hop duo. A combination of raw style, unique lyrics, and electrifying stage presence makes them a force to be reckoned with. While Alize is flamboyant when it comes to style, yet reserved in person, Tony Hood is quite the opposite, conversational, yet laid back. But don’t let their boyish good looks, and charms fool you, these two pack a punch when it comes to lyrics. In early April of ’08, Tony Hood N’ Alize proved that when they made an appearance on B.E.T.’s 106 and Park, getting them national exposure. “This experience has truly shown us what it takes!” quotes Tony Hood. The two since then have performed at local venues around the city to extend the buzz, building a name in the music circuit. With an album on the way, Tony Hood N’ Alize is “Built for Greatness” featured on the album. But donâ’t worry ladies; with tracks such as “Seduction,” and “Can’t get over it,” this duo respectively caters to you too.
How did you get that name? Well we are the first male hip hop and rnb group to hit the scene first off! It symbolizes family and strength. Tony Hood came from his middle name Antonio, which his mom gave him and dad’s last name Hood. Alize’s name stemmed from his last name which is actually the same.
What has been your biggest accomplishment? Tony Hood N’ Alize we’re the first out of Orlando to be seen on 106 and Park Wild-Out-Wednesday (4/9/08) since Smilez and SouthStar.
What has been your most difficult challenge? Drawing a steady fanbase. I mean people tell you the music is HOT! But that only gets you so far!
What makes you different? First off we are the first ever male hip hop and RnB group EVER! Along with that just listen to the music! We keep our music different every time around. Keeping you guessing.
What projects are you working on? Right now we are currently on networking with many artist around Orlando and varies cities. We are looking to take all of our tracks and pick 5 to place on a demo and push heavily.
Where are you from originally? Tony Hood-Born in Jacksonville, FL
Alize – Port-Au Prince, Haiti
How Long have you been making music? All our lives! Tony Hood started in the band, next was djing and then rapping.
Alize was a singer in the church choir since a young age.
What artists inspire you? Our family!
How would you define your style of music? Special!!!!!
What teams are you affiliated with? Blaq Soul Entertainment, Genesis Music Group, One Entertainment P.E., ProFRESHional Ladies Promotions
Who are some artists that you have worked with? J. Wise, ShoBoy, C-Reese, Yung Triz, Astro Kids, and varies others.
Who would you like to collab with? EVERYBODY IN THE INDUSTRY!
Where do you see the future of music? Very successful.
Where do you see yourself in 1 year? Building a major buzz for ourselves. That’s all we can do for now. Until someone takes us under the wing (major label)
Describe yourself in one word: Magnificent
Where can we hear your stuff? Go to myspace.com/tnamusic26
MySpace URL : www.myspace.com/tnamusic26
Any shout outs? Shout out to Our Families, The Blaq Soul Entertainment family, Genesis Music Group, K. Wright, Bert, J. Wise, ProFRESHional Ladies, One Entertainment, Our Management Fritz JR. & Rafael Colon, B*, Brei, Paul JR, Versetile, ALL OUR FANS!