This week Cacoteo.com’s Itzel Yagual brings us another fire exclusive interview with O.G.M. aka Omar Garcia from OGM y Oakley

Q&A Phone Interview with Omar Garcia aka O.G.M.
By Itzel Yagual (@ILYQuintero)

Tell me about the person behind Omar Garcia, his personality, his likes, his dislikes and who he is on a daily basis.

OMAR GARCIA: I’m a simple person that lives with what is necessary. I have been involved with music from the time I was 6 years old. I am proud to be a Puerto Rican. I love everything that is simple, I am most happy when I’m surrounded with good people, I like watching movies, I enjoy learning from others and I live everyday to the fullest.

Tell me about a favorite memory from your childhood.

OMAR GARCIA: There were good and bad memories. When I started singing/rapping Reggaeton in a group and in that process as a young man, I remember that I went through a lot of things. Some were hard, difficult, and other times they were just great memories. I was blessed in that I got to work with great people, had a group, did what I love and toured different places. I won’t forget the bad nor will I forget the good because I learned a lot of things during those stages of my life.

Please describe yourself in twelve words or less.

OMAR GARCIA: I am honest, persistent, romantic, passionate, stubborn and someone who appreciates solitude.

Name five things you can’t live without

OMAR GARCIA: I can’t live without music, love, my laptop, Freng, a television series and my parents.

Your music is often described as a blend of Hip Hop, Trip House Music, R&B, Pop, Reggaeton and Rock. How do you describe your music?

OMAR GARCIA: I don’t see my music sticking to a particular genre. I am constantly finding new ways to change it up, keep it lively and make it interesting. I like to create music that is always exciting and unique. On one occasion I may create music that touches on social change and on another occasion I may talk about politics. My music is much more than one category; my music is its own category.

How did O.G.M. and Oakley come into play?

OMAR GARCIA: O.G.M. & Oakley started out back in 1994-1996, through DJ Adam and Mad Jam. During that time we toured all the cities in Puerto Rico, several states in the United States and the Dominican Republic. We also worked closely with Pantyman and Mexicano.

httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ra7GAEwSyEo

What led to the parting of the group?

OMAR GARCIA: Back in 1999, I took some time off from the group. I had a lot going on and went through a lot of things that encouraged me to take a break. I entered a music conservatory, got a job and got my own music workshop. I later found out that one of my group members, Oakley passed away. His death came as a shock and ultimately was the cause that ended the group.

Who are your musical inspirations?

OMAR GARCIA: When I was young I listened to everything from Rock, Metallica, Rap, Underground Rap, Reggae to Pop. I listened to bands such as Viper, Guns & Roses and artists such as Phil Collins, Sting, Public Enemy, NWA, KRS One and Outkast. At that time I was listening to artists that had something to say and that had messages that made sense. Today you’ll find me listening to Kanye West, Lil’ Wayne, Drake, Jay-Z, Lupe Fiasco, Los Tetas and Control Machete.

Do you play any instruments?

OMAR GARCIA: Yes. I compose music with a piano and or guitar. I also played the flute when I was younger but rarely play it nowadays.

What other hidden talents do you have?

OMAR GARCIA: I do a lot of editing, writing and create videos.

When did you first start singing?

OMAR GARCIA: I started singing when I was 6 years old in local churches.

What did your family or friends do to encourage you?

OMAR GARCIA: This is the one area that I can say that I was truly fortunate. My family has always been there for me. They have always supported my dreams and ambitions. They never told me to go and focus on another career, they saw and valued what I believed in and stood by me for many years and are still standing strong beside me.

Who else in your family sings?

OMAR GARCIA: Some sing but not professionally. My uncle was a poet and on my father’s side, Silvia Resach was a professional and famous poet.

What song are you currently playing often?

OMAR GARCIA: I am hooked to “All of the lights” by Kanye West. I love the video, the lyrics, the beat and the overall feeling I get from listening to it. I just can’t get enough of it.

Where would you most like to perform?

OMAR GARCIA: I would really like to perform in Argentina. Argentina to me is a country that has influenced a lot of my flavor in music. Julio Portass is one of the many artists that are priceless and timeless for their music in Argentina.

If you have not done so already, whom would you most like to open for?

OMAR GARCIA: Wow, that is a good question. I would love to open for Tego Calderon, Calle 13, Kanye West, Lupe Fiasco and many others. If I had to choose one I would have to seriously think things through because there are quite a few talented artists that I look up to, truly respect and value their musical artistry.

If you weren’t singing/rapping, what would you be doing?

OMAR GARCIA: To be honest with you, I have no idea. I think I would be completely lost if I was not singing/rapping or doing something that was music related.

When you are not writing music, what do you do to relax? What’s your favorite hangout spot?

OMAR GARCIA: I appreciate time to myself, being with my family and being with the woman I love. For the last three years my hang out spot has been a place called La Madre located in Viejo San Juan, Puerto Rico.

If you could dabble in another music genre, what would it be?

OMAR GARCIA: I would truly love to have a rock band or work with a full instrumental electronic music band. I have a taste for different music styles and I’m always looking for those opportunities.

What embarrassing songs might I find on your MP3 player?

OMAR GARCIA: I don’t know really. I have Rhianna and Drake’s song “What’s My Name” on my IPod but not sure if that’s what you may call embarrassing but it is different from the other styles I have on there.

What’s the motto or advice you follow on daily basis?

OMAR GARCIA: The day that you believe you know everything the fun stops, you stop questioning the world and you simply stop learning.

What sets you apart from other artists?

OMAR GARCIA: I think what sets me apart from other artists is that I really don’t care about genres. I do what I want, put forth what I’m feeling and that’s just me.

Currently what projects or events are you working on? Will you be touring soon?

OMAR GARCIA: I recently worked with Ñengo Flow on the song “Escupe Fuego” which has been out for almost 2 weeks now. So far, this song is doing very well and has gained a lot of popularity on Puerto Rican radio stations and on the Internet. We are also finishing up the video to this song, so be sure to be on the watch for that! We hope that people will enjoy the message we portray and that they get a good vibe from the video. As far as long-term projects, I will be putting out more videos and visiting Colombia sometime in the next few months.

What do you have in store for us in 2012? Will there be new collaborations or albums?

OMAR GARCIA: I have lots in store for 2012. In a few months I will be collaborating with JKing y Maximan, Chyno Nyno, Jowell & Randy, Domingo Quinones and many others. In addition to the collaborations, I will be experimenting with different styles of music and releasing 6 videos via television or Internet. After that, well I can’t say at this time but keep watching and following me!

Ten years from now you will be?

OMAR GARCIA: I hope to be in a little house somewhere in beautiful Puerto Rico, reading a few books, drinking wine, listening to music and of course producing and writing.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned working in the music industry?

OMAR GARCIA: Music and the industry are two entirely different things. Once you know the difference between the music and the industry then you know how to play the game. Artists need to develop not only their own style, but have a unique distinctive sound, they need to be fearless, be different and more importantly learn to be cold blooded.

Where can we learn more about you or contact you?

OMAR GARCIA: Feel free to check me out and follow me on Twitter and on Facebook. My new website, omargarciamusic.com will be rolling out in about a month.

Twitter: omargarciamusic

Facebook: Omargarciamusic

Omargarciamusic.com

DOWNLOAD HERE – BAJALO AQUI

Download Omar Garcia Ft Nengo Flow – Escupe Fuego

Un millon de gracias a Omar Garcia formerly of O.G.M. & Oakley [r.i.p.] from your Cacoteo.com Family!

“Si quieres la guerra Despidete!!!”

This week, Cacoteo.com’s Itzel Yagual catches up con

“Los Reyes Del Underground”

Maicol y Manuel

Q&A Phone Interview with Maicol y Manuel
by Itzel Yagual (@ILYQuintero)

What brought the two of you together?

Maicol: Manuel and I go way back, we met through a friend named Blanco. Besides the fact that we were both into music, we both lived in the same neighborhood and hung around the same people. In our teens, we started performing in local events, talent shows and later, out of town shows.

Tell me about your childhood were they similar? What was difficult?
What do you miss about it?

Maicol: I miss the fact that we were all equal, no one was really trying to compete and that people were simply focused on sharing music. In the past, new acts, new talent were not in any means commercialized. Today, people work with the mentality of “every man for himself,” and there is no way around that mentality; sad as it may be, it is what it is. Nothing is given or received for free everyone in this business expects something in return.

Manuel: What I missed the most was that there were fewer rules, there was more partying and that there were no differences, like we have today. Getting together to make good music, a new style strictly for our youth was and continues to be our everyday goal.

Who played a vital role in your life?

Maicol: My mom has been remarkable throughout my everyday life. She use to sing, write poetry, write songs and because of that, she ignited the fire that was in me which drove me to my destiny. I later became hooked when I listened to Shabba ranks, Wiso G and the list goes on.

Manuel: I would have to say, my brother. Growing up, he was not only my idol but taught me many things that made me a better man.

What are 3 things you can’t live without?

Maicol: I would have to say, my daughter, my cell phone and music.

Manuel: I can’t live without my kids, my lady and my fans.

What do you enjoy doing on the weekends?

Maicol: I like spending the weekends with my daughter. She’s an important part of my life.

Manuel: I like spending time at the beach to relax, to forget about the problems and to leave all the stressors behind. It feels good to lie on sand, be under the sun and listen to the ocean.

What kind of movies do you watch? What was the last movie you saw?

Maicol: I like to watch all kinds of movies and more so when there is a good plot or storyline that keeps me interested. The last movie I saw was Fast and the Furious 5, which was two thumbs up in my book.

Manuel: I like watching movies that have history, adventure, drama and action. The last movie I saw was Pirates of the Caribbean 4, which was pretty good.

Do you have any hobbies or engage in any extra curricular activities?

Maicol: Well I call that PlayStation sports. Right now, I am addicted to Call of Duty and I’m playing that quite often on my down time.

What motivates you to create this type of music and why?

Maicol: I write music because I live it and I want people to value life through my eyes and my music. Life without music would be not the same because music fills your soul, it calms you and it makes the feeling-less filled with emotions.

Manuel: I have always loved to sing, even from the time that I was little. I don’t recall a moment where I was functioning without music. Music to me is priceless and I do it not only because I love it, but also because music is my life.

What moment or event elevated your career? How do you stay grounded while achieving many successes?

Maicol: I can’t really pinpoint a moment but I know that our careers took new heights when we started touring all the cities in Puerto Rico. We worked hard, and it felt good putting our music out there. Soon enough people fell in love with what we brought to the table and started realizing that they couldn’t keep away from the contagious vibe of our music. In the midst of our travels, we have helped artists such as Don Chezina, Alberto Stylee and others.

Manuel: We make music everyday from our hearts, not about money or some fictional story. Our music is explicit, honest and you will find no taste of falsehood in it. Maicol and I are very happy with the success we have attained and proud of the awards that we have received but more importantly we are very thankful for the support from our fans because without them, we would not be here.

What does the word Cacoteo mean to you? Do you consider yourself a “Reguetonero” or “Caco”?

Maicol: I don’t see myself or identify myself as a Caco or Reguetonero. I see myself as a regular person, who tries to be the best in this genre and music industry by using my skills at full play. Putting a label on me would be like setting limits. I am about going beyond the limits and setting new records, that is who I am.

Manuel: I identify myself as neither. I see myself as a player in this music game and as a tropical urban artist who is remarkable at what he does.

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you are performing?

Maicol: I think about making people have a good time and I ask God to instill strength in me to ensure that I transmit the message I’m trying to pass my audience. At that very moment, my main goal is for people to have fun and forget about their troubles at least for a while.

Is there a specific way or specific time that you are most compelled to write and create music? (in studio or home etc.)

Manuel: I think about music 24 hours a day, so no there is not a specific way or formula, the music just comes naturally.  When it does, I take notes and hit the studio. From there, I start putting the music like pieces to a puzzle. Regardless of what I’m doing, I am always focused and paying attention to my surroundings because any little thing, such as a sound, comment or nature could potentially lead me to create the next hit.

What’s the most valuable lesson you have learned working in the music industry?

Maicol: I feel that believing is power. If you want to do something, just do it don’t second-guess yourself.
Manuel: The business can be shady at times. Understand that you cannot confide or trust in people you are not working with.

From the time you guys started out to today, do you think Reggaeton has changed? Why or why not?

Maicol: From the lyrical content to the beats, practically everything in the genre has changed. Before it was underground then Reggaeton, and now it’s often referred as urban music. I think a lot of the roots of the real underground have parted. In some ways it’s good and in some ways it’s bad. The reality is that the music is still much alive and that everybody wants a piece of it.

What do you think about conflicts between artists in the music industry, does it maintain the hype of the music or is it simply publicity?

Manuel: It think this is just part of the music culture and the generation. Often times, the beef may depend on the artist and whom the artist has a beef with. Most of the time the beef is not personal but on some occasions they turn it into a personal matter.

What do you think about Reggaeton artists that change the underground style to create music that feeds the need of the current trend? Do you think it’s right? Or do you feel that the product is no longer Reggaeton quality? Why or why not?

Maicol: I think some of these artists are creating music that lacks the underground ingredient to Reggaeton and bringing something that is very different and just too commercialized.

What are things that will help you to succeed in the music business?

Maicol: Staying level headed and being positive, will take you anywhere and you’ll go as far as you want to go.
Manuel: Always be real and stay true to yourself. Don’t be a copy or a follower. Stay passionate, stay on the grind and work hard.

As an artist do you think it’s important to maintain your image and why?

Maicol: Yes, in this day in age, it is very important to maintain your image. Before it was just your words, could sell or hurt you. Today an image can make you or break you and your career.

As one of the most if not the most predominant groups of all time in Reggaeton, you guys had split up for a while & are now finally back together, how does it feel to join forces once again & what do Maicol & Manuel have in store for us in 2011?

Maicol y Manuel: We are going to bring the roots with some of the present styles and we don’t plan on changing our strategy. This time around, it will be better and we will demonstrate to others that we are still here and always will be here.

In today’s music business a lot of groups are splitting up and pursuing solo careers. What makes this duo unique and what has kept you together for a long time?

Maicol: We are realists, a dynamic duo who plays no games when we perform, spit or write music. We are storytellers bringing the stories that should be told and heard.

What artists have you worked with in the past?

Manuel: We have worked with JKing y Maximan, Franco El Gorilla, Don Chezina and many others. We are currently featured in JKing y Maximan’s mix album, which is coming out soon. You can also get a taste of us on Nico Canado’s A Lo Under.

Do you think Reggaeton would not survive without Latino support and or the online support why or why not?

Maicol: I think it would have but it would not be as strong because Latinos love Reggaeton and it is something that is ingrained in Latino culture. On the other hand, no, people are getting the music without even buying it.

What advice do you have for artists struggling with consistency in their music? Is consistency even important?

Maicol: I would say that they should focus on bringing music that is straight from their hearts and souls and to avoid becoming beat biters or copycats.

How would you like to be remembered or known for in years to come?

Maicol y Manuel: We want to be remembered as the superstars that pack the stadiums and that bring down the house.

What can we expect from the duo this year and in 2012?

Maicol y Manuel: Currently, we have about 12 songs. Basically, we will be promoting them on the streets, then promote on the Internet and then plan for touring. In a few weeks, we will be visiting Colombia and Mexico. After that, we will be working and compiling our music for the new album.

Where can we learn more about you?

Maicol y Manuel:
Our fans can find us on Twitter.

@darkpencil
@superstarmaicol
@maicolymanuel
@manuelclassico

Gracias Maicol y Manuel for the great interview de parte de tus fan aqui en Cacoteo.com!

This week Cacoteo.com’s Itzel Yagual catches up with,
White Lion Record’s Nico Canada for another exclusive Q&A interview

May 4, 2011 by Itzel Yagual (@ILYQuintero)

Who is Nico Canada and what is he all about?

NICO CANADA: My fans know me as, Nico Canada, one of the founders of Underground/ Reggaeton music and the street studies. I am a producer, songwriter, composer, musician, singer and DJ. I have over ten albums and have participated in over 40 albums. My real name is Jorge Nicolas Rodriguez and I’m a thirty-six-year old Puerto Rican native. After the September 11, 2001 tragedy in New York, I joined the Army and completed seven years of military service.

Where did you grow up?

NICO CANADA: I grew up in Canovanas, Puerto Rico. The first time I traveled to the United States was at age 14, to visit family. I have a studio and currently reside in Canovanas, Puerto Rico.

At what age did you discover your musical talent?

NICO CANADA: I have been involved with music from the time I was four years old. I started playing songs on a keyboard and after that I started taking piano lessons at a local school in Puerto Rico. When I reached my teens, I began performing as a dancer. Then, I formed groups Microhouse and Behind the Building. After that, I began programming music. The first time a collaborated and recorded, was with Ruben DJ, one of the first Puerto Rican rappers. This was my 1st recorded collaboration and it consisted of 2 reggae tracks.

What motivated you to become a music artist?

NICO CANADA: I have always been passionate about music and always knew that I would be doing something that was music related.

Are there any artists that you look up to or that inspired you to create music?

NICO CANADA: When I was growing up, I was really into artists such as Mad Professor, Africa Bambaata, Run DMC, Electrobus, Herbie Hancock and Sebastian Back.

What does a typical day look like and what do you do to relax?

NICO CANADA: I usually get up at 5am, do sit-ups, and then go for a run. After that, I head to the studio to wrap up any previous work. To relax, I usually head to the beach, cruise in my ride, spend time with my kids or go skydiving.

When you are cruising what do you listen to?

NICO CANADA: I listen to all types of music, not just underground music. Most of the time, what I listen to depends on my mood. If I want to relax, I will listen to instrumental music. If I’m upbeat and feeling ready, then I listen to reggae music.

What artists have you worked with in the past?

NICO CANADA: When I was starting out, I produced music for Vico C, Ruben DJ and DJ Playero. Later, DJ Playero and I produced Daddy Yankee’s first album, titled “No Mercy.” I then produced White Lion Records first album, titled “White Lion.” My first music accomplishments and productions, lead to the discovery of artists such as Alberto Stylee, Rey Pirin, Maicol & Manuel, and Nano. I then created the first two productions that merged both U.S acts and Puerto Rican artists. The first one, I produced along DJ Tony Touch in the D&D studio with artists KRS-One, Mad Lion, Daddy Yankee, Mexicano, Alberto Stylee, Don Chezina, Rey Pirin and many more. Then, I produced Boricua Guerrero along DJ Playero, which was one of the biggest musical productions of the genre. Some of the artists that participated in that production were Fat Joe, Nas, Big Punisher, Lost Boyz, Busta Rhymes, Q-Tip, Rey Pirin, Yahiah, Don Chezina, Daddy Yankee, Alberto Stylee, Mexicano, Michael & Manuel, Pantyman & Hornyman. I also have produced music and worked with artists Tito El Bambino, Ivy Queen, Hector el Father and Franky Boy.

Any new albums coming out or songs we should look forward to?

NICO CANADA: “Happy Hour,” one of my recent productions, is a dance and house music album, and can be purchased on I Tunes. Most recently, I worked with a variety of artists on a production called “A Lo Under,” that will be released in the summer of 2011. The album has 30 tracks that are mixes and remixes. The album features artists Zion & Lennox, Michael & Manuel, Jowell & Randy, Guelo Star, Don Chezina, Wiso G, Angel & Khriz, Alexis & Fido, Aguila, Alberto Stylee, Ivy Queen, Polaco, Tha Pres, Cosculluela, MC Ceja, Omar Garcia and many others.

When is your next performance or event?

NICO CANADA: In May of 2011, I will we working on promotional events. On June 25th, 2011, I will be on tour with other artists in the Dominican Republic. After that, I plan to tour in Florida with other artists.

What is the feeling or message you want your fans to take away when they listen to your music?

NICO CANADA: I want everyone, to stop thinking about their problems and their debt and just focus on having a good time.

Do you have any advice for young artists who want to pursue a musical career?

NICO CANADA: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket and keep your options open. If you focus on one aspect in the music world and it doesn’t work out, you will be stuck. If you have an open mind, and are open to different roles than the likelihood of success in your musical career is much greater. If you can’t afford to get equipment, get a job don’t just sit there and wait for things to happen. Be sure to move, learn new things and be quick. Music business is fierce and you got to keep yourself up to date on the latest and upcoming trends. Also, you must have a good attitude, be ready to work hard and build connections.

If fans want to connect with you, where can they find you on the web?

NICO CANADA: My fans and those that want to stay connected with what I do, can find me on Twitter.

Twitter: @nicocanada

NICO CANADA – A LO UNDER (COMING SOON)

DOWNLOAD HERE – BAJALO AQUI

Para Entrevistas o Promo contact: CacoteoRadio@gmail.com

Cacoteo.com’s Itzel Yagual catches up with rising Reggaeton Star, “Alex Killer”

April 23, 2011 by Itzel Yagual (@ILYQuintero)

Who is Alex and what is he all about?

ALEX KILLER: In the world of Urban Music, I am known as Alex Killer. Behind “Alex Killer,” my real name is Joseph A. Negron Velez. I am twenty-five years old and I love music. I am a producer, artist, musical engineer and songwriter. I have produced and written songs for Limit-21 and many others. My record label is titled New Warrior Inc.

Where did you grow up?

ALEX KILLER: I have lived all my life in Puerto Rico. I currently reside in Guanica, Puerto Rico.

At what age did you discover your musical talent?

ALEX KILLER: I started singing when I was six years old. I later started doing commercials and live performances.

What motivated you to become a music artist?

ALEX KILLER: My older brother, Joesua always motivated me to sing. He linked me to contacts and leads in the city. He made sure I was always practicing and working on my music.

Are there any artists that you look up to or that inspired you to create music?

ALEX KILLER: Growing up I enjoyed listening to Vico C, Tempo, Calle 13 and many others.

What does a typical day look like?

ALEX KILLER: Most of the time I’m doing something that is music related. I am usually in the studio writing or producing. On my downtime, you will find me spending time with my four-year-old and five-year-old sons.

When you are cruising what do you listen to?

ALEX KILLER: I am always flipping through radio stations. I like listening to urban music, merengue and basically anything that has a good beat and makes you move.

I see that you have worked with Mas Flow, how long have you worked with them?

ALEX KILLER: I have a professional relationship with Mas Flow and have worked with them for about three years.

What artists have you worked with in the past?

ALEX KILLER: I have worked with La Sista, Baby Rasta & Gringo, Luny, John Eric and many others.

Are there any artists that you would like to work with in the future?

ALEX KILLER: Currently I’m focusing on my career as an artist. I am working on several projects with Neff, a producer and musical engineer.

Any new albums coming out or songs we should look forward to?

ALEX KILLER: Since the industry has changed, I am placing more emphasis on promoting individual songs versus promoting an album. I recently collaborated with Tony Tun Tun on a project that is soon to be released later this year. My most recent work was “Le meto full” produced by Los Meet-Meet and Neff. I have more to come in the near future so be sure to check out my album coming out soon.

When is your next performance or event?

ALEX KILLER: I often perform at local venues and popular nightclubs in Puerto Rico. I am planning to be on tour with other artists in June 2011 throughout Central America. After that, I am planning to tour in the United States.

What is the feeling or message you want your fans to take away when they listen to your music?

ALEX KILLER: I want my fans to enjoy the music, get out and have a good time.

Do you have any advice for young artists who want to pursue a musical career?

ALEX KILLER: Pursue your goals and dreams. Don’t let anyone tell you that you cannot achieve your dreams, or that you don’t have what it takes to be who you want to be. Always fight for your dream.

If fans want to connect with you, where can they find you on the web?

ALEX KILLER: My fans and those that want to learn about my music can find me on Twitter, Facebook and MySpace.

Twitter: @Alexkiller1
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/alexkiller1
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Alexkiller