MR. SYLK BIO - 1223 This versatile lyricist was born in Ft. Worth, TX and raised in the inner city of San Antonio, TX. Sylk started rapping at 13 years old and became a founding member of 1223 at 15 years old. At the age of 17 the rapper learned he would be a father and immediately made a commitment to be “the best father possible.” In order to fulfill this mission, Sylk left a promising rap career, married his girlfriend at the time, and joined the U.S. Army to support his family. Sylk soon realized that the U.S. Army was one of “the best things that ever happened to him.” As his commitment to the Army grew, so did his desire to continue his rap career. Sylk found ways to express his creative ability at every one of his duty stations—Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, to Fort Carson in Colorado Springs, and finally settling into his current home base of Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio. The Army Sergeant, highly respected by his peers, brings a unique military perspective to the group and reaches a major fan-base—the U.S. Military Soldiers. Known for his versatility, Mr. Sylk has the uncanny ability to evolve and flow to any beat, giving each song a fresh and unique feel. Sylk’s passion for his music is reflective in his innovative and heart-cutting lyrics. During his two separate tours in Iraq, Sylk lost two Soldiers and number of friends. It was these personal experiences that prompted the group to dedicate their album to all Soldiers of the U.S. Military. JOHN-JOHN BIO - 1223 The “rapper's rapper” was born and raised in the inner city streets of San Antonio, where, in the words of Biggie Smalls, “You either slangin' crack rock or got a wicked jump shot.” Fortunately for John-John, he had a wicked jump shot. When John wasn't playing basketball he was rapping. He wrote his first full-length solo at the age of 12 and became a founding member of 1223 at 15 years old. At the age of 19, he was offered a basketball scholarship by Chaminade University of Honolulu where he went on to become a two-year Co-Captain during his four years of eligibility. John-John continued rapping during his college campaign, appearing in a series of mixed-tapes in Hawaii. Understanding the value of education, John-John took advantage of the opportunity by completing his Bachelor of Arts in Communications and his Master of Business Administration in Finance. He accomplished all of this by the age of 25 becoming the first person in his family to graduate from college. After spending six years in Honolulu, John-John returned to his hometown of San Antonio to pursue a professional career in the finance field. John-John’s professional career soon became a valuable tool that would provide the financial means to pursue his first love of music. John-John's rap style is a rare combination of thought provoking lyrics that are street credible and addictive. In the words of Sylk, “John does of great job of expressing his philosophies on life and it's contagious. It's like, when he raps…you just want him to keep going and going.” John-John credits his educational and cross-cultural background for his unique rap style. “My rhymes are a direct reflection of my experiences and the people I've met.” 1223 MUSIC: Statement 1223 promises to display a genuine love and appreciation for music that will one day be mentioned along side other great artists in the music history books. Without ever meeting the two young men, one is able to connect with their music in a way that makes you feel like you know them. Their message, expressed through their music, is relatable to any member of society. All ages, races, ethnic backgrounds, as well as genders will find a reflection of themselves in most songs on the album. Being Co-Owners of CCE, Mr. Sylk and John-John were able to stay true to themselves without compromising their music. In this album, “Full Circle”, you are not entertained with popular fads and trends of hip-hop such as Candy Paint Cars, Gold or Platinum Grillz, gangbangin, riding on big rims, “pimpin’ hoes,” etc.. Instead, you can expect to be entertained, inspired, challenged, and enlightened by creative artists that allow you to move your feet, your mind, and your soul. You sit in the presence of two young men, humble in their perceptions and expectation of reality, looking to do nothing more than make great music, take care of their family and friends, and provide a unique voice originating from San Antonio's hip-hop community. You are welcomed to join 1223, as they make their mark in the modern hip-hop nation. God Bless!