Born Toriano Howard Jr. in South Central Los Angeles, California, 2xCali’s story began in one of the most influential cities in hip-hop. But while Los Angeles gave him his roots, it was Quitman, Mississippi that helped shape the artist he would become. At a young age, his family relocated to the small Southern town, where he spent his formative years growing up in the Quail Run Apartments.
Life wasn’t always easy. When he was six years old, his parents separated, leaving his mother to raise him and his two brothers. The family lived together in a small apartment, facing many of the challenges that come with growing up in a tough environment. Despite the hardships, those experiences became the foundation of his character and eventually his music.
The Quail Run Apartments became more than just home. It was where he built lifelong friendships, discovered his voice, and began putting his thoughts onto paper. Surrounded by everyday struggles and real-life experiences, he found an outlet through writing.
By the age of 14, 2xCali was already creating and recording music. Inspired by legendary artists such as Tupac, Lil Wayne, and Kendrick Lamar, he developed a passion for storytelling and authenticity. Their ability to speak on pain, ambition, and life experiences motivated him to do the same.
As he continued developing his craft throughout high school, music became more than a hobby—it became a purpose. His sound evolved into a unique blend of Southern Soul, Trap, and Trap R&B, combining emotional depth with hard-hitting production and relatable lyrics.
Outside of music, much of his time growing up was spent around Quail Run Apartments and local studios throughout Quitman. Those environments provided both inspiration and motivation, helping him sharpen his skills while staying connected to the realities that shaped his perspective.
Over the years, 2xCali has recorded much of his catalog at Fat Crates Studio in Las Cruces, New Mexico, as well as Skitzo B’s Studio and Beacon Hill Studio in El Paso, Texas. Those recording sessions helped transform his vision into polished records while allowing him to grow as both an artist and songwriter.
In the summer of 2021, 2xCali released what would become his most recognized project, Darkest Part of the Shadow. The project introduced many listeners to his music and featured his breakout record, “Slowly,” helping establish his name among a growing audience.
Today, he continues building on that momentum with his latest release, Survivor’s Remorse: Concrete Language. The 11-track project serves as a powerful reflection of his journey, turning years of struggle, sacrifice, and perseverance into music that speaks directly to listeners facing challenges of their own. Every song carries a message rooted in experience, proving that pain can be transformed into purpose.
While new music remains under wraps for now, 2xCali’s story is still being written. With a growing fan base, increasing recognition, and a catalog built on authenticity, he continues to represent both Los Angeles and Quitman with pride.
As he looks toward the future, he gives special thanks to the people who helped him along the way: Skitzo B, Kendrick Cooley, E-Wall, Kiesha Palmer, AJ Hammit, Gabe Pina Jr., Isaiah Moore, Lamont Jackson, and every 2xCali fan and supporter who has believed in his vision from the beginning.
