The Break Presents: The Boy Illinois

Breakout: "Right Around Winter"

Also Check: "Cardigan Sweater" ft. G.o.D Jewels

And: "I Quit"

Name: The Boy Illinois (Illi)

Age: 24

Reppin’: Chicago, IL.

My style and/or skills have been compared to: I've been compared to a couple of people, but I don't want to give readers any preconceived notions that I sound like anyone else.

I started rapping: I began rapping around 11 or 12 years old. I didn't take it seriously until I was about 15.

My standout records and/or moments have been: I have this record called "Cardigan Sweater" and a lot of people have told me that really enjoy that record. So in terms of standout records, that joint is definitely a game changer. Also, I got a chance to perform a couple of times at SXSW. That was definitely a great experience for me.

I’m gonna change the game by: To be a game changer, you have to lead by example. The best example that I try to set is individuality. I roll with a select few, but at the end of the day I make my own decisions and own moves. Nobody can do you like you, so why not do that? That's how I plan to leave some type of imprint with my music. Be the person and tell you what my life is like.

I’d Like to work with: I'd like to work with Lupe. He's my favorite artist and has definitely been an inspiration to my craft. Al Jerreau is another artist that I would love to work with. I was raised on his music, so its part of my musical DNA make-up.

My goal in hip-hop is: My goal is to spread good the music around the world.

I’m gonna be the next: I'm not trying to be the next anyone. I'm just going to continue to be me.

To check out more of my music you can go to: My site, Twitter, or Facebook