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BLOCK XCHANGE
It is a rare and significant occasion when a musical group can capture and express the sentiments of a generation while adding a unique style to music, touching the hearts of many and expanding their horizons to make an impact on society, creating a union between music and life. Alex "Lyriq" Cottrell (17) & Willie "Commando" Stanfield (18), dubbed "Block Xchange" are undoubtedly among the best.
Born and raised in Chicago, Lyriq developed an extreme passion for the industry at an early age, Lyriq started to write, rap, sing, and also learned the art of producing. His fascination for music allowed him to successfully compose his first track at the age of 9. Ever since, it's been no turning back for young Lyriq, with his current work ethic showing his strong commitment.
Lyriq wasn't blessed with much family wealth and fortune and came from more of a poor working class background. This obstacle didn't slow Lyriq's motivation. It only encouraged him. While growing up, he believed that he could be the family member to change the tides and become a positive role model for future generations. Lyriq describes how he fought through the negative influences in order to become a more rounded individual and a more conscious artist. Lyriq classifies his style as "one of a kind" and tipped his hat to Quincy Jones as his inspiration, stating that he is "a musical genius." He also describes how his devotion to his studies allows him to be such a versatile musician. When asked to describe a few of his favorite recordings of all time, Lyriq referred to Jay Z's "Hardcore" and "Crossroads" by Bone Thugs ~N~ Harmony. One of his favorite quotes of all time is to "In Life There are Many Greats, but Never a Greatest."
Commando, also developed an eagerness for music at a young age, although his passageway to attain his aspiration came with many trying obstacles. 36th & Indiana is where Commando called home during the early years of his life on Chicago's south side. The tragic death of his father in the summer of 1996 forced young Commando to move from Chicago to Pine Bluff, Arkansas. Commando expressed that when his father died, the harsh reality of life set in. Residing in Arkansas was no easy task as he experienced some the roughest times of his life. Yet, Commando used the struggle as determination for his newly developed passion, rapping.
When life in Arkansas became too overwhelming, fifteen year old Commando returned to his hometown of Chicago. With the backbone of his family gone, Commando had to become a man very early in his childhood, though these times were also very trying. While Commando was perfecting his musical craft, he was kicked out of school then eventually out of the home he lived in. After a short stint at another high school, Commando dropped out and was sent to boot camp.
His early life can be described best in the musical composition "Why I Do It?" in which Commando tackled his childhood ordeals. Commando explains how his experience in Arkansas helped him to become more of a well-rounded individual and gave him his inspiration for a majority of his music. He describes himself as ambitious and determined. One of his favorite recordings of all time stemmed from the late Tupac Shakur with "Keep Ya Head Up" and his favorite quote is that "Trust enemies, never friends, because former enemies have more to prove!"
Going away to boot camp made Commando more focused and determined than ever, and once he arrived back home, he hooked up with long time friend Lyriq, who also had the same passion for music.
Although both Lyric and Commando have taken different roads in life to strive to achieve their goals, their resolve never subsided. In late 2003, triumph met destiny when these masterminds united to form this sensational duo dubbed "Block Xchange." By bringing the best songwriting, deliverance, versatility, marketability, most exciting performances, and the best all around personalities to the forefront, this group name would only be most fitting.
Based out of Chicago, Illinois, Block Xchange creates a musical phenomenon that carves a unique niche in the music industry. Anyone who witnesses their electrifying, high powered music and performances will realize that Lyriq and Commando have the recipe for success.
With an extended list of recorded music, Block Xchange was undeniably prepared for the main stream. The duo was introduced to multi-platinum rap mogul Chris "LUDACRIS” Bridges of Disturbing Tha Peace Records. Calling them the group that fills the void in the music industry, Ludacris quickly signed Block Xchange to a recording contract and pulled out all the stops when it came to Block Xchange, hooking them up with some of the hottest producers and artist in the industry.
Their current album shows their unique style, versatility and extreme passion and love for music.
Get ready because DTP's own "Block XChange" is coming to a block near you!
