Eurazmus “Illecism” Forh has had a childhood as diverse as the subject matter and rhyme patterns his listeners have come to expect of him. Commonly referred to as “The Best Rapper You Never Heard Of”, he is the son of Liberian natives and was born in Raleigh, North Carolina. Living with his mother, a Sergeant in the U.S. Military, he made short, yet instrumental stops in El Paso, Texas and Gaithersburg, Maryland before finally arriving in Sacramento were he currently resides.
Having a gift for word play at a young age, Illie began his journey as a wordsmith at eleven spending his spare time writing raps. Even though Illecism had little contact with his father until he was fifteen, he credits him as an influential force and role model in his development. During the years he spent living with his mother, Illie was restricted early on from watching or listening to any Hip-Hop, as she deemed the misogamy and glorification of crime could have negative influence on him. Upon hearing the Marshall Mathers LP, (which he would “borrow” from his mother while she was at work) a seed was planted in him to become the best. Thus through numerous lunch table ciphers, over 30 battles in which he holds an impressive and undefeated record, and the daily “sixteen’s” he required of high school friends and group members, H.A.V.O.K. (Heroes and Villains Operating on Kreativity); Illecism’s desire of becoming a master of his craft took him from mere protégée to fulltime student. As a member of Havok, Illie and the group released “Havok Blvd.” a popular mix tape within the high school. Illecism’s name comes from one of his intensely watched lunchtime ciphers, where he said afterwards, “I don’t spit lyricism, I spit illecism”. After graduating from Inderkum High in Natomas, Illie began and later released the Northern California classic mix tape “Have a Refreshment Vol.1” with best friend, Havok member and current producer Nicatyne. This release has garnered him a buzz among the Myspace, internet forum and local audience. He also made a very memorable appearance on DJ Oasis “Well Connected” mixtape.
Illecism’s military upbringing has made him into an organized and hardworking individual, who believes, “If you’re not a master you’re a slave”. He has transferred those values to the training he maintains to truly master his craft. Illie has begun work on his debut album “Freshman Friday”, with a release date to be determined soon.
