Artist Interview - Ca$tro

1. How did you get your artist/group name?

When i first came into the game i told myself i wanted to be dominate force and just take control of the game. My nickname in the streets was Cas already, I wanted somethin to flow with that so I just gave myself the rap name Ca$tro trading the "S" for a "$" and been ready to take this rap game over like Fidel did Cuba.

2. How long have you been in the music game?

 I been rapping since I was about 12-13yrs old, but as far as stepping out and pursuing the music as a career I would say 2008-2009. Its something Ive always had a passion for but never took serious until I dropped my 1st mixtape in 2009 called Ridah Muzik Vol.1 Hosted by DJ Life.

3. Who are your major influences in your music?

So many artists have influenced me its impossible to name them all, from Biggie, Jay-Z, Busta Ryhmes, 2pac, Camron, Mobb Deep...I just love hip hop and ima fan first. People like Jay - Z, Master P, 50 cent and Birdman inspire me to be a better businessman not just an artist.

4. Where are you from?

Im from Camden, NJ...a small city of about 80,000 people but we were rated "Americas Most Dangerous City" a few years in a row, been in Time Magazine and all that. Not to glorify negativity but just to give the public a understanding on what I came out of. I come from the bottom.

5. Who do you have featured on your album/mixtape?

I dont have too many features, I feel like the people need to feel me and my music first before I do that. I do have records with Big Lou (Camden), Tone Trump (Philly), Wes Fif (Orlando) and others. My upcoming mixtape C.M.D: Cash Murder Drugs is coming soon! Classic I promise!

6. How did you get into music?

Music has always been a part of me and my life. My mom was a singer and was in a small r&b group when I was young, I found out my dad was real heavy into the poetry and jazz scene so its in my blood.

7. What is your next upcoming project/performance and when?

My upcoming mixtape C.M.D is on the way, I actually dont have a date for it yet but im getting all the music together now. Should be by the end of this year.

8. Who would you like to work with that you haven't already?

I would love to work with the new artists thats out gettin it poppin right now, cats like Meek Mill (Philly), J. Cole (NC) Vado (NYC), Nipsey Hussle (CA) B.O.B (ATL)...it would be a honor to work with some of the Vets too tho.

9. Who is your favorite artist/group?

R.I.P Biggie Smalls

10. What is your favorite song on your album/mixtape?

I got a joint called "What More Can I Say" produced by Sarom...he made "Pop Bottles" for Lil Wayne, "Diamonds On My Chain" for Fabolous, but if you wanna know who Ca$tro is listen to that record.

11. What motivates you?

Besides the money, people that tell me I cant do something motivats me. I have alot to prove to myself and to the people who support me

12. What is your album/mixtape title & when is the release date (if available where)?

Upcoming mixtape is called "C.M.D: Cash Murder Drugs"

13. What would you like to see from the music industry in the next three years?

I would love to see fans buying music again. I voted Obama, Im all about change so Im ready to see some new faces get in the game.

14. In three words; describe your personality?

Confident, Dedicated, Determined

15. In three words; describe your music?

Honest, Dope, Classic

16. How does your family & friends feel about your music and your choice of career?

My family and friends support me, they know I have the talent and drive to be successful. My grandmom thinks I curse too much..haha

17. Do you have any affiliations (label/team)?

Im the Ceo of HoodFella Muzik, thats my own label. Everything Im doin is Independant until the right opportunity comes my way. I dont have any affiliations with any other label or team.

18. What does music mean to you?

Music comes from the soul, its been around way longer than me and you and it will be here when we are long gone. Music is powerful because it can change people and people change the world.

19. What advice would you give another artist/group?

My advice would be never quit on your dreams, but realize a dream without a plan is just a wish. You have to make your dream a reality.

20. What can we expect from you in the future?

People can expect to start seeing my face alot more and get used to it...I have a lot of dope music, i have a story to tell and i know that yall gone rock with me cause its a story yall can relate to.

21. Where Can Your Fans Reach You At?

I wanna thank Nick New and MyHipHopRadio for the opportunity and blessing. All my fans, supporters and family can follow me on www.twitter.com/castrohfm stay connected with me thats the best way, producers send those beats to: allflamebeats@gmail.com For interviews, features, bookings, etc please email: castromuzik@gmail.com