Shawn "Hazz" McDonald was born and raised on the south side of Jamaica Queens, New York. He grew up during the time when it was about the lyrics and original music.
The self-proclaimed lyricist is no stranger to the hip hop revolution; his feel for music came from the direct influence of world renowned hip hop pioneers: Russell Simmons, Larry Smith, Run DMC, and Whodini. "The honor of working with some of the hip hop legends allowed me to become the young protégé of the late great Jam Master Jay," said Hazz. "As a youngster, I proved my skills on the turntables as an emcee, which opened the doors for me to go on tour and open up for top acts like, Lil Kim, Cash Money, Ludacris, and Nas."
In pursuit of even bigger dreams, Hazz headed to Atlanta, Georgia and become an ASCAP/BMI songwriter. He wrote numerous songs for award-winning R&B/Soul Singer Keith Sweat and Keith Mitchell of the R&B group After 7.
When the acting bug caught hold of Hazz, he set his sights on Hollywood and moved to Southern California. As a triple threat: performer, songwriter and actor, Hazz went for the holy grail of the acting community and became a member of the prestigious SAG/AFTRA organization. Combined with his hard work, dedication, and mentoring from the best in Hollywood, Hazz landed a role as a Black Panther in the feature film, "Walk Out."
It hasn't stopped for Hazz and more roles continued in films such as "Epic Movie," and "Stay Cool" with Chevy Chase and Hillary Duff. He gained national exposure in the hit commercial, "Education Connection" as a rapper which aired on BET, MTV, VH-1. Followed close behind was a second national commercial for "Sceneca One." Hazz can be seen in the international favorite, feature film, "Chocolate City," directed by Jean-Claude LaMarre. The film was released theatrically and is available on VOD, BET, and DVD.
While working on becoming a household name and recognizable face, Hazz continues to record music and build his own independent company, "Hazzari Entertainment." Hazz is focused on his new instant classic "Champion," "Karma," and "Trust Nobody." The single "Champion" complements the Champion World USA Movement that was co-founded with Entertainment Publicist Marie Lemelle. "I will always create timeless music and develop and teach artist about the art and beauty of music made from the heart," says Hazz. For more information, about Hazz, go to: http://artistecard.com/HAZZ, www.s1hazz.com, and www.shawnhazzmcdonald.com
