rapcycle-universe UK Interviewer Greg Preece’s Interview with HECTO (Hector Ruiz) Cuban Rapper Signed To IMMIGRINT MUSIC and associated with SLUMERICAN. If you’re a fan of Slumerican and you’ve seen Big Henry on tour or even hit #SLUMFEST then you most probably have been lucky enough to have seen him. My interview is to give fans and the public an insight into who Hecto really is . His Story alone is really inspiring from the transition of moving country at a young age and not knowing the language, to then making his way in the music industry from the bottom to the top with help from his manager Edward Crowes AKA Ounze Zilla who also the VP of Slumerican Operations . His music really has a way of catching your attention and drawing you in, his voice and style of rap is so unique and needed in the industry. I hope by the end of this interview you will support him to.
RAPCYCLEUNIVERSE INTERVIEW WITH HECTO
1, So Hecto how did you first get into music and how old were you when you started to take your music serious?
HECTO - I began writing music early in high-school. That went on for a few years until my manager now (Edward Crowe) and I decided to open The Phoenix Room early 2009, a recording studio located downtown Nashville on 3rd ave South. It was then I really got a chance to record my lyrics and develop as an artist. To fully answer your question, I've always had a passion for music but it was never serious until about six years ago when we established the Phoenix Room.
2, What was life like growing up in Cuba and then moving to the states, and did this influence the music you make?
HECTO -Growing up in Cuba was probably the best experience of my life, many great memories took place during those years although sometimes we struggled to make ends meet. I remember having only one pair of shoes and a few pieces of clothing to wear. Cuba faces a constant struggle to meet basic needs and there is very little concern from government authorities to do so. Growth opportunities are very limited and people are constantly looking for a way out. Moving to the states signified a new beginning. It was difficult due to the language barrier but it felt good to be starting over. Those years definitely impacted the music I make today as well as many other aspects of my life, it allows me to appreciate what I currently have and it keeps me hungry for success.
3, What can you tell fans about your up and coming project (M.G.O.T) Money grows On Trees?
HECTO - M.G.O.T comes from a real moment and place in time when I was focused on becoming financially successful in any way that I could. On the flip side, the title contradicts what we've all heard our whole life's, money don't grow on trees. This is my way of telling fans that anything you put your mind to can be accomplished with blood sweat and tears.
4, Do you have a favourite song off your Immigrint EP,? (Mine Is Rite Back Up It Kills It For Me)
HECTO - My favourite record of the Immigrint project is "Right back up". There are other records on the project which I could consider, however, "Right back up" has great substance and carries a message of resilience and determination to win.
5, What’s your relationship with Slumerican like?
HECTO - The Slumerican family has always been supportive, as the movement continues to grow so will our relationship. Big shout out to Yelawolf, Ounze Zilla, Big Henry, Struggle and the homie Shawty Fat who I just got a chance to work with a few days ago. All of this guys have contributed and influenced me to get where I'm at today.
6, What’s it currently like touring with Big Henry on his “10 Toes Down” Tour around the U.S.?
HECTO - Big Henry and I have always had a good relationship. That's the homie. Touring is always a good time, there's no better way to reach your fans and give back. It feels good to know that we can connect with people thousands of miles away through music. Touring its definitely a unique experience on its own, but the people make it special.
HECTO - HOLLYWOOD MUSIC VIDEO BELOW
7, Growing up who were your music icons and who would you like to hit the studio and work with?
HECTO - Some of my biggest influences include Cypress Hill, DMX, Big Pun & Tupac. My cousin used to play Cypress Hill all day in his car and although I couldn't understand what they were actually saying something about the music caught my attention. DMX was also one of my favorite rappers growing up. As I got deeper into the culture I picked up on Pun and Tupac, rest in peace to the legends. Right now I'm doing records left and right many of them being features, I'll get in the studio with anyone who truly loves what they do and has respect for the game.
8, Do you feel it’s hard for a Cuban rapper to make it in the Game?
HECTO- Initially yes, I guess it's different from what they are used to seeing. Once they hear my music though I feel it gives me an advantage because there isn't anyone else like me out there. In my opinion, Latinos have become very influential in Hip Hop. It is becoming increasingly popular for rappers to use Spanish terminology in their lyrics as well as stage names, etc. I feel like my lane is wide open, the game needs another dominant Latino rapper.
9, What’s it like being signed to Immigrant Music?
HECTO - Immigrant Music as a label is currently in a growth stage. We are still working a lot of new angles in trying to figure out the best strategy for reaching our goals. With that said, we have big dreams and we continue to work ambitiously towards those goals.
10. Where would you like to be in a few years’ time?
HECTO - In a five year period I see myself putting out great music and selling out shows.
Masssive Thanks To Edward Crowe For Sorting This Out Hope Your Business Continues to grow and all the success in the future, were all behind you man!!!!!
Social Media
Website: www.hectomundo.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/Hectomusic
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HectoRoom
FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/HectoMusic
