The Year is officially starting off with a bang as Grammy-Nominated Recording Artist, Anthony “AZ” Cruz, marks his highly anticipated return to the Hip Hop scene with the release of a brand new freestyle, Genesis. With this new freestyle, AZ is preparing his fans for the release of his new album Doe or Die II, which will be released later this year. Since the release of the Doe or Die anniversary album in 2011, AZ has been working to perfect each song for the new album. Fans will definitely be pleased with the follow up.

AZ first became known by appearing on Nas’ landmark 1994 album Illmatic on the song “Life’s a Bitch”, as well as featuring vocals on the opening track “The Genesis”. He was the only guest feature to appear on that album. AZ signed with EMI, and soon released his debut album Doe Or Die in 1995 to critical acclaim. The album’s lead single, “Sugar Hill”, became one of AZ’s major commercially successful records as a solo artist, reaching #25 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and achieving Gold status. In 2002, he released Aziatic from which his single “The Essence“ (featuring Nas), was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group.

Today, AZ is back and better than ever. Check out the new Genesis freestyle and stay tuned for Doe or Die II coming soon.