214

One big, “WOW!” That’s what you get when you combine the talents of Hollywood, Ramzi, D.C. and Pooh – collectively known as 214. As the group’s nom de plum might suggest, they hail from Dallas, Texas where they have established themselves as great showmen, an important group on the local/regional scene, and (in short) a musical force to be reckoned with. While 214 recognize Jodeci, Boys to Men, and H-Town as modern influences, they also tip their hat to soul singers of the 60’s and 70’s. Not surprisingly, this mutual respect of the classic and the contemporary cause their songs to be instantly familiar while, somehow, brand new. In fact, 214’s sound and live performance may cause the casual listener to hark back to a day when singers would REALLY sing and a live show involved more than just running from one side of the stage to the other. 214 members, Hollywood and Ramzi, began their friendship when they were dancers for the multi-platinum group H-Town. The dancer/singers decided to start a group so they enlisted the services of high school friend and the octave-gifted, D.C. They completed the quartet they wanted when Ramzi's cousin, Pooh, also joined the group. The group began to sing for anyone, anywhere, and at any time. Constant rehearsals and dedication to developing their voices and stage show resulted in their recent crowning as winners of The Sunkist Showcase hosted by Dallas radio’s 97.9 The Beat hosted by celebrated host, Steve Harvey. Other notable performances include The Texas Summer Music Conference, Dallas radio station, K-104’s Kwanza Fest, opening for many national acts that pass through Dallas and Houston, and participation in the Black College Tour where their participation was cause for invitations back to several campuses to perform. 214 created a buzz that could not be ignored by local/regional record labels and many soon came a’ knockin.’ Indy label, COZ Records owners, Rocket and Melani Ismail, signed the group and they are now the part of the COZ Records family. They are featured on several mixtapes including King J’s and are wrapping the recording of their debut album following the success of their single, “Gig!” 214 continues to tour the country, record songs, building a loyal and sometimes rabid fan base everywhere they go. This is especially true among the young fans that have already begun to add “Gig!” to their “favorite songs list” and join in lively discussions held on the 214 website. The group also continues to set themselves apart from the phalanx of other groups by utilizing original songs and a show that give a nod to their southern sensibilities, a love for hip-hop and R&B, and a respect for musicianship. In short, they are what many have come to call The Whole Package – the ready combination of unique dance moves, powerful vocals, expert production, and sheer professionalism... and that never gets old!