Azie Faison, a name that, you know, tends to spark a lot of conversation, is someone whose story really shows how much a person can change. Born on November 10, 1964, in New York City's Harlem neighborhood, he has lived a life that, you know, has taken many turns. From being a person deeply involved in the drug trade to becoming someone who now tries to help young people stay away from that same path, his experiences offer a pretty unique look at life on the streets and the journey to making things right. It's a tale that, in a way, feels both, you know, very raw and also quite inspiring for some.
His story, actually, gained quite a bit of public attention, especially when he sat down for an interview with DJ Vlad on VladTV, revisiting some of the things he went through. This return to the public eye happened about five years after his first chat with Vlad, giving him another chance to share more of his background. He started by talking about what it was like growing up in New York during the 1960s and 1970s, which, in some respects, was a very different time for the city. These conversations, you know, help paint a picture of the environment that shaped his early years and the choices he made.
What's really interesting about Azie Faison's public discussions, particularly those with Vlad, is his apparent willingness to be open about some pretty tough stuff. There was a moment, for example, where it felt like he was, you know, perhaps holding back a bit, not quite ready to be fully frank about certain past interactions. He reflected on how, maybe, he was still, in a way, "playing a part" rather than just, you know, saying directly, 'Yes, I did think about hurting you back then, but I was really just not thinking clearly.' This sort of reflection, you know, gives us a glimpse into the personal struggles involved in moving past a complicated past and truly owning one's actions, which, for many, is a very difficult thing to do.
Table of Contents
- Who is Azie Faison - A Look at His Background?
- Personal Details of Azie Faison
- What Was Azie Faison's Early Life Like?
- How Did Azie Faison Become Known in New York?
- The Music Connection of Azie Faison
- A Turning Point for Azie Faison
- What Does Azie Faison Do Now?
- Lessons From Azie Faison's Life
Who is Azie Faison - A Look at His Background?
Azie Faison, often called "AZ" by many, is a person whose life story, you know, really captures the attention of those interested in the realities of urban life and personal change. He was born on November 10, 1964, and grew up in Harlem, a part of New York City that has, in some respects, seen a lot of change over the years. His early days were spent in a setting where, you know, certain choices could lead to very different outcomes. He became known as a significant individual in the drug trade in New York, particularly during a period often referred to as "the war," which, basically, points to the intensified efforts against drug use and selling.
His involvement in this world, actually, was quite substantial, with reports indicating he was earning, you know, a very considerable sum of money, more than $100,000 each week, from selling cocaine in Harlem. This level of financial success, however fleeting, certainly made him a noticeable figure in his community during that time. Yet, his story isn't just about his past dealings; it's also about what came after, and the path he chose to take later on. It’s a narrative that, in a way, highlights the difficult decisions people face and the potential for a different sort of existence, which, you know, is something many find quite compelling.
Personal Details of Azie Faison
Here are some basic facts about Azie Faison:
Detail | Information |
---|---|
Full Name | Azie Faison |
Known As | AZ, A.Z. |
Date of Birth | November 10, 1964 |
Place of Birth | Harlem, New York City, USA |
Occupation | Former drug dealer, businessman, motivational speaker, former rapper |
Notable For | His past involvement in the drug trade and his current work deterring youth from drug use. |
What Was Azie Faison's Early Life Like?
Azie Faison's early life, you know, really began in a New York City that was, in some respects, quite different from today's. He grew up during the 1960s and 1970s, a period that saw a lot of social and economic shifts in urban areas, particularly in places like Harlem. He revisited these formative years during his conversations, describing a childhood that, basically, shaped his perspective on the world around him. The city then was, arguably, a place of both great energy and considerable hardship, and for a young person like Azie Faison, these surroundings would have, in a way, presented a unique set of challenges and opportunities, or at least what seemed like opportunities at the time.
The streets he walked, the people he met, and the overall atmosphere of Harlem during those decades played a significant part in his development. It was a time when, you know, certain paths might have seemed more accessible or even, in a way, more promising to some young individuals, especially if other avenues felt closed off. His recollections of this period, you know, offer a personal glimpse into the circumstances that can lead someone down a particular road, highlighting the environmental factors that, basically, influence choices made during youth. It’s a reminder that everyone’s story, in some respects, starts with their beginnings.
How Did Azie Faison Become Known in New York?
Azie Faison, you know, certainly became a noticeable figure in New York City, particularly because of his involvement in the drug trade during a specific period. He rose to what many would call prominence as an individual who dealt drugs in New York during what was often referred to as "the war on" drugs. This time was, in a way, characterized by intense activity within the drug markets and equally intense efforts by law enforcement to combat them. His story, in some respects, is intertwined with the narrative of that era in the city's history, showing how certain individuals could, basically, gain significant influence within that particular underground economy.
The details shared suggest that Azie Faison was, in fact, quite successful in his illicit dealings, reportedly making a very substantial amount of money each week from selling cocaine in Harlem. This level of financial gain, you know, would have made him a powerful presence in his community, drawing attention and, perhaps, a certain kind of respect within those circles. It's important to remember that this sort of "prominence" came with its own set of very serious dangers and consequences, which, as we know, can often lead to very difficult outcomes. His experience, in a way, serves as a stark illustration of the realities faced by those involved in such activities, even when they seem to be, you know, doing quite well financially.
The Music Connection of Azie Faison
Beyond his past life in the drug trade, Azie Faison also, you know, had a connection to the world of music. He is, in fact, also known by his stage name, A.Z., which points to his involvement as a rapper. This aspect of his life, you know, adds another layer to his overall story, showing that his interests and activities weren't, basically, limited to just one area. It’s fairly common for individuals from certain urban backgrounds to find an outlet or expression through music, and Azie Faison was, in some respects, no exception to this trend.
His work as a rapper, you know, would have allowed him to share his experiences and perspectives through a different medium, perhaps reaching a different audience than his other activities. While the provided text doesn't go into extensive detail about his musical career, the mention of his stage name, A.Z., suggests that this was, in a way, a recognized part of his public persona. It’s interesting to consider how these two very different parts of his life, the street life and the artistic expression, might have, basically, influenced each other, and how he might have used one to, you know, reflect on the other.
A Turning Point for Azie Faison
Life for Azie Faison, you know, took a very serious and almost fatal turn at one point. The information suggests he was shot nine times during an attempt on his life that, thankfully, was unsuccessful. This kind of event, in a way, tends to be a pretty profound moment for anyone who experiences it. Surviving such a severe attack, you know, would undoubtedly force a person to reflect very deeply on their choices and the direction their life is heading. It’s an experience that, basically, often serves as a powerful catalyst for change, making one truly consider what matters most.
For Azie Faison, this near-death experience seems to have, in some respects, marked a significant shift in his outlook. It’s not uncommon for individuals who have faced such extreme danger to, you know, decide to leave behind the circumstances that led to it. This incident, arguably, played a crucial role in his eventual decision to move away from his past activities and seek a different purpose. It’s a very stark reminder of the very real and severe dangers associated with the life he once led, and how, sometimes, a brush with mortality can, basically, provide a powerful push towards a new beginning.
What Does Azie Faison Do Now?
After experiencing such a dramatic shift in his life, Azie Faison has, you know, taken on a very different kind of role. He now dedicates his time and efforts to working with young people, aiming to keep them away from drug use. This current endeavor is, in a way, a direct contrast to his past, showing a genuine desire to make a positive impact. It’s a clear indication that he has, basically, chosen to use his own difficult experiences as a tool to help others avoid similar pitfalls, which, for many, is a very admirable thing to do.
His work involves, you know, sharing his story and insights with youth, offering them a real-world perspective on the consequences of getting involved in the drug trade. By speaking openly about his past, including the dangers he faced and the mistakes he made, Azie Faison provides a compelling message that, in some respects, resonates with those who might be considering similar paths. It's a way of giving back to the community and, basically, trying to steer the next generation towards safer, more constructive choices. This transformation from a former drug kingpin to someone who actively works to deter drug use is, you know, a very powerful testament to personal growth and redemption.
Lessons From Azie Faison's Life
The story of Azie Faison, you know, offers several important lessons that can be considered by anyone. One key takeaway is, in some respects, the idea that change is always possible, no matter how deeply someone might be involved in a certain lifestyle. His journey from a prominent figure in the drug trade to someone who now actively works against it, basically, shows a remarkable capacity for personal transformation. It highlights that, even after making choices that lead to difficult situations, there can still be a path towards making things right and contributing positively to society, which, you know, is a very hopeful message.
Another lesson, arguably, comes from his candidness, or perhaps the struggle for it, during his interviews. The reflection about "playing the game" instead of being fully honest about past thoughts of harming someone, you know, points to the very real difficulty of confronting one's own past actions and emotions. It suggests that true honesty, especially about painful or regrettable moments, can be a long and challenging process. This aspect of Azie Faison's narrative, in a way, reminds us that personal growth often involves a deep and sometimes uncomfortable look at oneself, and that, basically, being truthful, even when it's hard, is a very crucial step in that journey.
Finally, his dedication to deterring youth from drug use, you know, really underscores the power of lived experience in mentorship. By sharing his own story, Azie Faison provides a credible and impactful voice that can, in some respects, truly connect with young people who might be at risk. His life, basically, serves as a very strong cautionary tale, but also as an example of resilience and the possibility of finding a new purpose. It shows that, you know, even the most challenging past can be used to create a meaningful future for others, which is, perhaps, the most important lesson of all.
This article has explored the life of Azie Faison, from his upbringing in 1960s and 1970s Harlem and his rise as a significant drug dealer, earning considerable sums. We discussed his identity as a former rapper known as A.Z. and the near-fatal shooting that served as a turning point. The piece also touched upon his candid reflections during interviews and, ultimately, highlighted his current work dedicated to deterring youth from drug use, offering a perspective on personal transformation and the impact of his experiences.
Related Resources:



Detail Author:
- Name : Julia Kreiger V
- Username : yyost
- Email : ihomenick@hotmail.com
- Birthdate : 1976-05-06
- Address : 1496 Vinnie Underpass Suite 665 Pacochaport, UT 62722
- Phone : +17328459755
- Company : Schumm-Hayes
- Job : Forester
- Bio : Velit provident quis et quaerat quia. Voluptatem eveniet nisi doloribus fugiat quo. Quidem officia repellendus assumenda nulla. Ut beatae quia itaque perferendis aperiam praesentium vitae.
Socials
instagram:
- url : https://instagram.com/manns
- username : manns
- bio : Ratione quia ut et voluptas ut. Culpa aut libero perspiciatis et voluptatum excepturi.
- followers : 6573
- following : 1237
linkedin:
- url : https://linkedin.com/in/manns
- username : manns
- bio : Quia aut perferendis officiis at et.
- followers : 4088
- following : 270
facebook:
- url : https://facebook.com/sabrynamann
- username : sabrynamann
- bio : Voluptatibus temporibus est magni saepe. Sed quasi nobis dolorum quidem.
- followers : 2833
- following : 458
tiktok:
- url : https://tiktok.com/@sabrynamann
- username : sabrynamann
- bio : Ea labore cum ab in placeat. Qui in qui provident.
- followers : 5671
- following : 2626
twitter:
- url : https://twitter.com/sabryna.mann
- username : sabryna.mann
- bio : Molestiae ut animi vero rerum. Est nisi iusto et ipsam eius ipsa omnis. Aperiam saepe voluptate aut ipsam.
- followers : 5432
- following : 789