IZ316 has always understood the power that music has to transform a person. The Wichita Kansas native grew up listening to church music and mid to late 80's hip hop. Some of his earlier influences included Will Smith, Ice Cube and LL COOL J. Later artist like Nas, N.O.R.E. and JAY-Z made an impression on Iz316 and caused him to fall in love with "East Coast" "Boom Bap" style of hip-hop." "I don't knock the younger generation of hip hop artist and mumble rap, but I'm not from that era." "I'm from the golden era of hip hop". " I take pride in originality, individuality, bars and having a message that will uplift anyone. "I don't think its possible to listen to a IZ album and not learn something and come a way as a fan"