Back Story

Below, you will see a quick timeline about us, the story of YCQ! (You Can’t Quit!), from its humble beginnings in 2003 to its powerful resurgence in 2025. This journey reflects the passion, struggles, and growth of Darius Recard Jr.and the impact of his family's vision. You'll read about the rebirth of YCQ! through the trials of life, the rise of YCQ! ENT, the healing process that followed profound losses, and the creation of the Nova Star Foundation. It’s a journey of resilience, hope, and a commitment to never giving up.

THE TIMELINE OF YCQ!

2003

The Birth of YCQ!

Founder: Darius Recard Sr.
Location: Flint, Michigan
The Vision: YCQ! (You Can’t Quit!) was created by my father alongside close family and friends. He trademarked the name and designed a logo featuring a star behind it.
Tragedy Strikes: In 2004, my father passed away by suicide, but YCQ! lived on.

2004-2010

My Mother Kept the Vision Alive

My mother, Deborah Recard, refused to let YCQ! fade.
She attached the brand to everything: YCQ! Lawn Care Services, YCQ! Birthday Parties, and more.
YCQ! was ingrained in my life, even when I didn’t fully understand its meaning yet.

2011

The Rebirth of YCQ!

Sitting in California, carrying the weight of my struggles, I collapsed to my knees in prayer:
Why am I here? What am I supposed to do?
When I came to, I had written "YCQ!" in my notebook.
This was my calling, my moment of clarity—the rebirth of YCQ!.

YCQ! ENT is Born

I immediately called Sherman Boaz Jr. (Sherm B) to share what had just happened.
No hesitation—Sherm was all in.
YCQ! ENT was created, fueled by music, with Sherm leading the charge.
Sherm B's YCQ! Mixtapes (Vol. 1-5) became the soundtrack of the movement.
- 🎵 YCQ! Mixtape Vol. 1
- 🎵 YCQ! Mixtape Vol. 2
- 🎵 YCQ! Mixtape Vol. 3

2011-2019

The Rise of YCQ!

YCQ! wasn’t just music—it became a movement.
I started presenting the brand to the world through:
- Shirts, YouTube videos, and public speaking.
- Track & field, still fighting for my career while repping YCQ!
Sherm B kept the music going, dropping mixtapes and bringing new artists into the YCQ! ENT family.

Giving Back & Becoming a Public Figure

As the brand grew, I became more involved in community work:
- Back-to-school rallies—making sure kids had what they needed.
- Thanksgiving dinners for the homeless—giving back to those in need.
- Funding people going through hardships—because we don’t quit on each other.

2020-2024

Tragedy Strikes Again

I lost my little cousin, my brother in spirit, to murder.
Shortly after, I lost my mentor, Coach Black.
These losses broke me.

The 4 Year Hiatus: A Time for Healing & Growth

God sat me down. I didn’t realize it at first, but this was my time for healing and growth.
I was broken. Losing my little cousin to murder and my mentor, Coach Black, hit me harder than I could have ever imagined.
I stepped away from YCQ!—not because I wanted to, but because God needed me to go through this season.
During this time, I began writing Book Star.
- I didn’t know it then, but the book became my therapy.
- It forced me to face my pain, my past, and the darkness I carried.
- The 14-year-old version of me who had been hurt, lost, and angry needed to be healed.
God was preparing me for what was next.
- He showed me that I couldn’t pour into others if I was empty myself.
- I had to go through the fire so I could come out stronger, ready to lead.

2025

The Birth of YCQ! Fitness

In 2025, I became a certified personal trainer, and YCQ! Fitness was launched.
YCQ! Fitness is now a key part of our mission, promoting both physical and mental resilience.

The Birth of The Nova Star Foundation

Out of the healing, out of the writing, The Nova Star Foundation was born.
"Book Star" wasn’t just a story—it was a calling.
- Through writing, I realized that so many kids battle depression, pain, and darkness just like I did.
- They need a light. They need hope.
The Nova Star Foundation is that light.
- It’s dedicated to helping kids and young adults navigate through their struggles.
- It’s about giving them the tools, the support, and the belief that they can keep going.
YCQ! is the mindset, and The Nova Star Foundation is the mission.