It was exactly ten years ago that I received my Associates Degree in Music Production from a small private college in St. Paul, Minnesota called McNally Smith. Two years prior to that, I graduated third out of my high school senior class of about a thousand students. Had I known when I first started that there was a thing known as a GPA, I could have easily been Salutatorian, but being first generation American, many things were new. I didn’t begin listening to English music till I was in middle school and the first time I went to the mall was in 7th grade. Basically, one can say, I was a little out of the loop when it came to American culture and its terminology, but I adapted. Nonetheless, I am proud of what I learned from the magnificent teachers who passed down some of their knowledge to me throughout my primary and secondary education. What I’m most appreciative of, however, are not the rewards and accolades I’ve received throughout my life, but everything my parents sacrificed to give me the opportunities they never received as kids.
I derive from a hard-working, strong-willed Mexican family who immigrated into the country over thirty years ago before becoming citizens of this wonderful and beautiful melting pot known as the United States. As a first generation American, English was not my first language and everything posed a bit more of challenge particularly in school. Add being a little “different” from the rest of the kids and a thick skin was bound to develop. Years went by and life brought on many lessons from which I’ve learned. After surviving the dark ages AKA as my teen years where I unsuccessfully attempted a couple suicides and my twenties where I was still trying to figure myself out and feel comfortable in my own skin, now, being thirty and looking back at everything I’ve overcome to get to this point in my life, I must say- I’m proud of me. I’m proud of who I’ve become and what I’ve accomplished with my artistry. I’ve travelled the world, released 9 albums, recorded over 100 songs, and am currently working on my 10th studio album with a scheduled release date for 2017 ALL BY MYSELF. How have I been able to do this independently? Through my hard work. Weeks, days, and hours where my labor has contributed to the success of other corporations and businesses who have paid me for my expertise and services have been used to entirely fund all of my artistic projects. NO ONE has given me any kind of monies to fund my artistry. While it’s been challenging, I’m very proud of what I’ve done and how I’ve done it for it has allowed me to appreciate and really invest in myself and what I can do. Have shortcuts been offered? Yes, but I chose to stay true to myself and what I believe in by taking the high yet slow road. I remain very grateful to everyone who has helped me along the way.
I’m ready to take my artistry to the next level. My wish would be to fully thrive off my art and talent. I’m honest, ambitious, driven, and hard-working. Did I mention: I’m a singer, songwriter, producer, vlogger, creative visionary, model, blogger, dancer, entrepreneur, and artist. I’m valuable and I honor and respect who I am and what I bring to the table. Unless you’re investing in my artistry or your funding my career, your words have no power. My struggle has taught me to believe in myself and what I can do. This industry is challenging, but my journey shows that I’m truly in it for the LOVE of art. I welcome new opportunities and sponsorships. What I offer is a unique, refreshing artistic view that the world needs and while I’m not where I should be yet in life, I continue to work hard everyday to achieve my goals. I thank everyone who has shown support throughout the years. If you’ve bought one of my albums, I thank you! I want my journey to show people that through dedication, hard work, and perseverance, you can accomplish your dreams. This is my journey and while it hasn’t been easy, I’m optimistic of what the future may bring. I haven’t given and won’t give up until I succeed and accomplish what it is I’m here to do. The best is yet to come, and I thank you for joining me along this journey. Don’t give up, believe in yourself, and have faith. If you ask God to guide your footsteps, you better be willing to move your feet and werk!! Reach for the stars and believe!! <3