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Hip Hop artist and producer Dom P approaches music with the sincere belief that it must be reflective of true emotion and experience. Patricio Castillo, a Washington Heights, NY native of Dominican-descent, demonstrates that Hip Hop can be potent from both an inner-city youth and college graduate.
| Hometown | New York, NY |
| Genres | Hip_Hop, R & B |
| Band Members | |
| Achievements |
|
| Upcoming Shows | None |
| Contact Information: |
Manager
Emmanuel musicfordaze@yahoo.com 6463712544 |
| # Years Experience Performing Live: | 3 |
| # Live Perfomances Past Six-months: | 8 |
| Market Draw: | New York, NY: 0-30; Bronx, NY: 0-30; New Jersey: 0-30; Brooklyn, NY: 0-30 |
| Venue History: | Mi Gente Cafe - Bronx, NY Amber Lounge - New York, NY Karma Lounge - New York, NY Pyramid - NEW YORK -, NY The Bowery Poetry Club - New York, NY Connolly's Klub 45 - New York, NY key club - Newark, NJ |
| Similar Artists: | Jay-Z; Kid Cudi; Lupe Fiasco; Drake; Nas; Massive Attack; Portishead; Andre 3000 |
Dom P is a New York City born and bred unsigned Hip Hop lyricist whose blood has been running music since he was born. He has worked on 3 mixtapes and is already catching a buzz not only in New York but across state lines in Philadelphia, New Jersey and...
Dom P is a New York City born and bred unsigned Hip Hop lyricist whose blood has been running music since he was born. He has worked on 3 mixtapes and is already catching a buzz not only in New York but across state lines in Philadelphia, New Jersey and Virginia. I Make Music, his latest effort, has been gaining listeners all over the internet at a growing steady pace and will undoubtedly become a well known mixtape once signed. Dom P writes, produces and arranges his own music in his own home made studio. Dom P, with his Music For Daze crew, is working hard on changing the state of Hip Hop and other forms of music and art for the better.
-As Per Dj Boy
-As Per Dj Boy
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Photos
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Reached 57th in Best of Urban chart in 2011. In the top 100 for 11 weeks.
Reached 21st in Best of Urban chart in 2011. In the top 100 for 21 weeks.
Top 10 in Hip Hop , February 2011
Reached 57th in Best of Urban chart in 2011. In the top 100 for 11 weeks.
Reached 21st in Best of Urban chart in 2011. In the top 100 for 21 weeks.
Top 10 in Hip Hop , February 2011
Top 10 in Alternative Hip-Hop, June 2010
Top 40 in Hip-Hop Videos, November 2012
Top 40 in Hip-Hop Videos, July 2011
Top 40 in Alternative Hip-Hop, December 2010
-Magazine Article- by Shavon Jones
Sunday morning has arrived, it is 9:54 am, and Dom P has music on his mind. He, almost with a hint of excitement, states, "Everyday man...its every single day that I wake up thinking about a line,...
Sunday morning has arrived, it is 9:54 am, and Dom P has music on his mind. He, almost with a hint of excitement, states, "Everyday man...its every single day that I wake up thinking about a line,...
That Kid from Washington Heights by Carla Zanoni
It’s safe to say that many of the neighborhood blogs in Northern Manhattan are penned by a certain demographic that typically does not include writers under the age of 25 who have actually grown up...
It’s safe to say that many of the neighborhood blogs in Northern Manhattan are penned by a certain demographic that typically does not include writers under the age of 25 who have actually grown up...
-Magazine Article- by Shavon Jones
Sunday morning has arrived, it is 9:54 am, and Dom P has music on his mind. He, almost with a hint of excitement, states, "Everyday man...its every single day that I wake up thinking about a line, a lyric, a melody, a song...anything music-related. [Laughs] Its like music was a virus that I caught the minute I heard it, and its been invading ever since". It seems as though he has decided to make his virus contagious, since his catalogue is growing at a Lil Wayne-esque pace, over-drawn with conflicting ideals, witty metaphors, unyielding flow, and realistic passion and bravado, and showing no indication of slowing down soon. He realizes that his stakes are high, and he's dealing with a now-or-never business, that seems to have the doors jilted at each turn...but he's trying all his keys anyway. Patricio Gabriel Castillo, 21, was born to two Dominican parents, who emigrated to New York City in the early eighties during the height of Dominican immigration, whom he credits his entire being to. "My parents were really like my guideline on how to be who I am now. You know? Like seeing my mother's attitude, I created my own, and fascinated by my father's talent...I discovered my own". That talent which he refers to, is that of Reynaldo Castillo, acclaimed percussionist for one of the most popular bands in Latin music, "Milly y La Orchesta". He admirably reflects, "I used to stare at my dad practice his drum routine on these rubber pads that he had...man it use to shock the shit out of me to see such fast, rhythmic movement come out of my dad. That shit can make any little kid proud". Tagging alongside his father for various concerts and events throughout his childhood, Dom saw everything the music world had to offer, good and bad, and begged for participation. "Man I could only fucking imagine what that's like!" he says coming out of his nonchalant demeanor, "Having someone come up to you, as they would to my dad, being incredibly honored to shake your hand, simply because you're talented. That legendary status is so amazing, simply because it puts you in a realm where you're almost perfect at something. And to be called perfect for doing something you love: its unreal!" With a hand full of raw almonds ("They're really good for your skin...and they taste damn good" he says) we enter the BMI building, where he is going to finally register himself for publishing purposes and for a meeting with one of the top executives of the company. Although this seems like an opportunity of a lifetime that would render any person nervous, Dom is calmly looking around and chatting of the pitfalls of post-graduate life with the receptionist. "This is a nice fucking waiting area...you can tell a lot about something by how you wait for it...so this is probably gonna' be good". After the meeting [held behind closed doors], he comes out of the room with a stifled smile that indicates it went better than he expected. As we get into a cab, he tells me, "you know God makes no mistakes and never says anything slick to a can of grease...so whatever happens and however it happens...that's the way it has to go! That being said...I have the patience of a saint for this, because I know it will come." As soon as he gave the cab driver the address, he lets me know we are en route to his recording studio, which he has set up in his home. "My man Ace King showed me how to set up my own shit, so instead of paying $60/ hr for a 'professional' studio, I pay $700 and make my own for life." He explains how he has learned that one way or another, one has to find the path to reach one's goals, and his anecdote of creating his own home studio was just one of the many adventures he's had to traverse in his life. Speaking in the most entrepenuarial spirit, he constantly refers to one's success as one's own doing and not a mere product of chance and waiting. "I had to make it man. I had to make wack songs, with wack sound quality... that's what taught me to make great songs, with perfect sound quality." As soon as the work station is powered up, its a completely different Dom P. Its like he dawns a disguise that gets shred to pieces the minute sounds begin projecting from his lavish studio speakers. His mood seems far more mellowed, yet his tone is far more energetic. He slumps in his chair and begins to mumble things to himself (which I later discover is the song-writing process). "I can't sit and just write rhymes with no emotion. I can do it with no beat, but not without emotion. If I don't feel what I'm saying, why would I ever expect YOU to feel it?" After a reflective pause he adds, "its so stupid when dudes just make songs with no meaning. Its a waste of so much time and money, that I don't know how execs even 'ok' shit like that." Dom P, however, appears to not be trodden with pressure or fears for creating quality music. After about 15 minutes of no conversation and a looping instrumental, he finally smiles and lowers the volume and says, "let me let you in my head: Time waits for no man, time must be an old man/ traveling the old land, as if he were a nomad/ time is my nigga, 'cause he never lets me hold back/ its now or never, time will tell if my flow lasts." Impressive, to say the least! Less than an hour has elapsed and Dom P has already concluded a song he tentatively titled "Time Vs. The Man" and after hearing it play back three or four times, he says he's pleased. "It drives me crazy sometimes," he begins, "like, I want it to sound so unbelievably perfect, that sometimes I discourage myself. [Laughs] So when I play it back, I'm not hearing for how good it is, but actually looking for what's wrong with it, so I can filter it out and possibly shape perfection out of it". Its incredibly refreshing to watch someone demonstrate so much passion and commitment to a craft, that seems to be taken less serious as the years progress. The music business has become one of intense commercialism and pursuit of profit and immediate fame, and caught up in the business of selling music, it seemed to have stopped caring about making music. Therefore, the quality of lyricism displayed on a record is rarely ever given praise, and in some cases, the lyricist is overlooked in preference of the generic rapper. "I guess its depressing if you think about it. Like I'm so in love with this one song I just made and that one line I told you about [one where states: time filled with seconds that it will never lend/ that will end your life, but time will never end] and I thought so much to create these great lines and ideas. Yet, somewhere in another studio, some nigga is just writing rhymes about some bullshit, not even caring about what he's saying, thinking of a dance for it or some shit and shipping it out to the public. Its a dual problem 'cause its kind of obvious these niggas don't give a fuck about making MUSIC, but then again, the fucking fans aren't giving them a reason to give a fuck. So its like both sides of the coin are braindead." As I leave his studio (which he refers to as "Outer Space" due to the out-of-this-world feeling he claims to feel when he creates music), he grabs my wrist and says, "If you make any reader believe anything, make them believe I'm one of the nicest lyricists ever. [Laughs]. You can portray my personal self as a fucking asshole, but let them know the music is real! This shit has less to do with my ego, and more to do with my music." For some reason, his closing argument stuck in my head and I realize that here was one of the most talented individuals I've ever met (not saying this due to his request), with so much to offer the world, especially music fans, yet its still difficult for true talent to acquire any platform to display itself. Without question, Dom P will become someone to note in the future and will most probably achieve the legendary status he so covets, but for now, one things is evident about the young, humble lyricist and its best left to be said in his own words: "As I told you in the cab, God makes no mistakes. So its no mistake that I'm good at this, and its definitely no mistake that you are the one who gets to tell my story. So if I never get the chance to tell it myself, I deeply thank you [pause]...O and of course God for bringing you here [chuckles]." No mistake indeed. ----- Shavon Jones Journalist and Jr. Editor
Sunday morning has arrived, it is 9:54 am, and Dom P has music on his mind. He, almost with a hint of excitement, states, "Everyday man...its every single day that I wake up thinking about a line, a lyric, a melody, a song...anything music-related. [Laughs] Its like music was a virus that I caught the minute I heard it, and its been invading ever since". It seems as though he has decided to make his virus contagious, since his catalogue is growing at a Lil Wayne-esque pace, over-drawn with conflicting ideals, witty metaphors, unyielding flow, and realistic passion and bravado, and showing no indication of slowing down soon. He realizes that his stakes are high, and he's dealing with a now-or-never business, that seems to have the doors jilted at each turn...but he's trying all his keys anyway. Patricio Gabriel Castillo, 21, was born to two Dominican parents, who emigrated to New York City in the early eighties during the height of Dominican immigration, whom he credits his entire being to. "My parents were really like my guideline on how to be who I am now. You know? Like seeing my mother's attitude, I created my own, and fascinated by my father's talent...I discovered my own". That talent which he refers to, is that of Reynaldo Castillo, acclaimed percussionist for one of the most popular bands in Latin music, "Milly y La Orchesta". He admirably reflects, "I used to stare at my dad practice his drum routine on these rubber pads that he had...man it use to shock the shit out of me to see such fast, rhythmic movement come out of my dad. That shit can make any little kid proud". Tagging alongside his father for various concerts and events throughout his childhood, Dom saw everything the music world had to offer, good and bad, and begged for participation. "Man I could only fucking imagine what that's like!" he says coming out of his nonchalant demeanor, "Having someone come up to you, as they would to my dad, being incredibly honored to shake your hand, simply because you're talented. That legendary status is so amazing, simply because it puts you in a realm where you're almost perfect at something. And to be called perfect for doing something you love: its unreal!" With a hand full of raw almonds ("They're really good for your skin...and they taste damn good" he says) we enter the BMI building, where he is going to finally register himself for publishing purposes and for a meeting with one of the top executives of the company. Although this seems like an opportunity of a lifetime that would render any person nervous, Dom is calmly looking around and chatting of the pitfalls of post-graduate life with the receptionist. "This is a nice fucking waiting area...you can tell a lot about something by how you wait for it...so this is probably gonna' be good". After the meeting [held behind closed doors], he comes out of the room with a stifled smile that indicates it went better than he expected. As we get into a cab, he tells me, "you know God makes no mistakes and never says anything slick to a can of grease...so whatever happens and however it happens...that's the way it has to go! That being said...I have the patience of a saint for this, because I know it will come." As soon as he gave the cab driver the address, he lets me know we are en route to his recording studio, which he has set up in his home. "My man Ace King showed me how to set up my own shit, so instead of paying $60/ hr for a 'professional' studio, I pay $700 and make my own for life." He explains how he has learned that one way or another, one has to find the path to reach one's goals, and his anecdote of creating his own home studio was just one of the many adventures he's had to traverse in his life. Speaking in the most entrepenuarial spirit, he constantly refers to one's success as one's own doing and not a mere product of chance and waiting. "I had to make it man. I had to make wack songs, with wack sound quality... that's what taught me to make great songs, with perfect sound quality." As soon as the work station is powered up, its a completely different Dom P. Its like he dawns a disguise that gets shred to pieces the minute sounds begin projecting from his lavish studio speakers. His mood seems far more mellowed, yet his tone is far more energetic. He slumps in his chair and begins to mumble things to himself (which I later discover is the song-writing process). "I can't sit and just write rhymes with no emotion. I can do it with no beat, but not without emotion. If I don't feel what I'm saying, why would I ever expect YOU to feel it?" After a reflective pause he adds, "its so stupid when dudes just make songs with no meaning. Its a waste of so much time and money, that I don't know how execs even 'ok' shit like that." Dom P, however, appears to not be trodden with pressure or fears for creating quality music. After about 15 minutes of no conversation and a looping instrumental, he finally smiles and lowers the volume and says, "let me let you in my head: Time waits for no man, time must be an old man/ traveling the old land, as if he were a nomad/ time is my nigga, 'cause he never lets me hold back/ its now or never, time will tell if my flow lasts." Impressive, to say the least! Less than an hour has elapsed and Dom P has already concluded a song he tentatively titled "Time Vs. The Man" and after hearing it play back three or four times, he says he's pleased. "It drives me crazy sometimes," he begins, "like, I want it to sound so unbelievably perfect, that sometimes I discourage myself. [Laughs] So when I play it back, I'm not hearing for how good it is, but actually looking for what's wrong with it, so I can filter it out and possibly shape perfection out of it". Its incredibly refreshing to watch someone demonstrate so much passion and commitment to a craft, that seems to be taken less serious as the years progress. The music business has become one of intense commercialism and pursuit of profit and immediate fame, and caught up in the business of selling music, it seemed to have stopped caring about making music. Therefore, the quality of lyricism displayed on a record is rarely ever given praise, and in some cases, the lyricist is overlooked in preference of the generic rapper. "I guess its depressing if you think about it. Like I'm so in love with this one song I just made and that one line I told you about [one where states: time filled with seconds that it will never lend/ that will end your life, but time will never end] and I thought so much to create these great lines and ideas. Yet, somewhere in another studio, some nigga is just writing rhymes about some bullshit, not even caring about what he's saying, thinking of a dance for it or some shit and shipping it out to the public. Its a dual problem 'cause its kind of obvious these niggas don't give a fuck about making MUSIC, but then again, the fucking fans aren't giving them a reason to give a fuck. So its like both sides of the coin are braindead." As I leave his studio (which he refers to as "Outer Space" due to the out-of-this-world feeling he claims to feel when he creates music), he grabs my wrist and says, "If you make any reader believe anything, make them believe I'm one of the nicest lyricists ever. [Laughs]. You can portray my personal self as a fucking asshole, but let them know the music is real! This shit has less to do with my ego, and more to do with my music." For some reason, his closing argument stuck in my head and I realize that here was one of the most talented individuals I've ever met (not saying this due to his request), with so much to offer the world, especially music fans, yet its still difficult for true talent to acquire any platform to display itself. Without question, Dom P will become someone to note in the future and will most probably achieve the legendary status he so covets, but for now, one things is evident about the young, humble lyricist and its best left to be said in his own words: "As I told you in the cab, God makes no mistakes. So its no mistake that I'm good at this, and its definitely no mistake that you are the one who gets to tell my story. So if I never get the chance to tell it myself, I deeply thank you [pause]...O and of course God for bringing you here [chuckles]." No mistake indeed. ----- Shavon Jones Journalist and Jr. Editor
That Kid from Washington Heights by Carla Zanoni
It’s safe to say that many of the neighborhood blogs in Northern Manhattan are penned by a certain demographic that typically does not include writers under the age of 25 who have actually grown up in the area. Written from this unique perspective, Dom P., A.K.A. “That Kid from Washington Heights,” writes that he “may not be the most intelligent or eloquent individual in the internet,” but he promises to be “thought provoking and entertaining” in a “mixture of hilarious observations, serious topics, random thoughts and everything else in between.”
It’s safe to say that many of the neighborhood blogs in Northern Manhattan are penned by a certain demographic that typically does not include writers under the age of 25 who have actually grown up in the area. Written from this unique perspective, Dom P., A.K.A. “That Kid from Washington Heights,” writes that he “may not be the most intelligent or eloquent individual in the internet,” but he promises to be “thought provoking and entertaining” in a “mixture of hilarious observations, serious topics, random thoughts and everything else in between.”
Featured Artist by Lipmo Threads
Dom P Dom P is a multi-talented Dominican artist who hails from Washington Heights. Blessed with the multi-faceted ability to rap, sing and produce his own music, he is a triple threat, something that is currently unheard of in the music industry. Dom P and his crew Music For Daze has achieved much acclaim since their formation in 2007. Lipmo: Lyricist phenomenon Dom P! …What’s the good word? How are you doing? Dom P: Everything is well; working hard..as usual! L: Excellent! Stale water causes mosquitoes! So let’s break down who Dom P is, where he is from and what the whole MFD (Music For Daze) movement is about. DP: Dom P is a NYC based lyricist, songwriter, apparently a singer (chuckles). That has its own back story to it though. MFD more so is more important because MFD has been strictly Latin pushed. That’s never been done before. Everything is always framed as a movement…cuz that’s the quickest way to get people riled up..like get the Zeitgeist in people and shit (laughs). It’s like, “It’s a movement, I’m down” black fist and shit. Everyone that currently plays a part in it is Latino and that’s important. It’s almost all Dominican. We got 1 photographer who’s Puerto Rican so that’s the curveball I guess (chuckles). So, MFD is a commitment to making good music, to good vibes. That’s one thing you can say about the rap songs, even the fucking freestyles: It has a mood. This is how I felt or whoever I was around felt at this time, so this is how we made it. I guess it’s kind of in the name. That’s why we chose it. It’s a daze that puts you in a state…a different state. As opposed to being fucking brain dead. L: You mean like what’s pretty much going on right now.. DP: Exactly L: So by you saying this is an All-Latino movement, are you saying that you’re a man of the people; meaning YOUR people? DP: Yes. But not in a corny way! I don’t know if you’ve picked up on that. I don’t throw a Spanish word in a rhyme or do a Reggaeton collaboration or constantly shout out Dominicans. I just think it’s one of those things where when it comes it comes. Like alright this kid made it. Now where do you come from? Washington Heights? Oh that’s a Dominican enclave. You weren’t the black kid there, you were actually Dominican (laughs). I always thought about this…It’s funny, I never told anybody about this shit but if and when I make it (God willing)…since I can speak Spanish…If I can get on Don Francisco and shit (laughs). I’d tell that nigga “yo man! You played more of a part than 106 & Park did in my life!” you know? That versatility; I got it, it’s got to come but I don’t beg for it… It’s just there. Same way you guys operate. You don’t pick out individual races and say, “Hey, you got to rep for us because you’re Latino or white”. L: I dig that. At the end of the day, in your own sense are you still going to solidify a spot for your people and your birthplace? Dom P: Definitely. One thing I can say for Washington Height and Inwood is it has had good singers. No offense to the rappers (this might be controversial) but I’ve heard good rappers, but not good ideas or lyrics. Not even to toot the horn but Roy-Al is the only one I’ve heard with a DIFFERENT thought. The worst part about the rappers in the hood is they’re good…What’s that word we came up with? Diagnosticians? (laughs). Niggas that can diagnose a problem but don’t do shit about it. Niggas that know how to criticize hip-hop and the problems it has, but they AREN’T the solution. I just want to open up that lane..like if there’s a Latin kid that can rap. He doesn’t have to play that angle; He’s just nice and happens to be Latino. Big Pun was like the fucking anomaly. People couldn’t wrap around the idea that he was Puerto Rican but he could rap. Even with Eminem, all these people are the exclusions to the rule. There’s such a strong African American stronghold. It has its own history of course but they’re just like us. They just don’t see us as them. I guess that’s why Hip Hop is such a unifying thing. Like “I can do that to and do it well” So I definitely want to carve a space for Washington Heights because it’s gotten a bad rap throughout the years. L: It continues to have that rap with some of the work that’s being put out there still… Dom P: Yea, I think I have a shot to give it a great name. Like “holy shit, this kid can rap, sing and produce? He’s nice!” I can showcase all my skills, not be THAT GUY (laughs) L: That reminds me of a line from your track GRAMMY COMING SOON where you said “As far as having room to grow, all I see is space like an astronaut.” As far as that line goes for the rest of the rap game; are you addressing other rappers? What exactly are you trying to say? Dom P: It’s a dual answer. I’m not putting down other rappers. It’s just noting the fact that they’re limited. To whatever they may be limiting themselves to. Some niggas, you’ll catch it (snaps) like on a mix tape they’ll be so broad and verbose. They just say whatever it is. Then the album comes and it’s completely stringent. You sound like someone told you to say that. When I finally realized I wanted to do Hip-Hop, I knew I could do whatever I wanted with it. I got it in my head that hip hop is a form of expression. Niggas SAY that but they don’t DO that. Like “this is a form of expression but I’mma be like every other nigga”. That’s a conundrum! Like nigga that don’t work! There’s no reason I should see a limitation. To give myself a limitation makes ME the limitation. If I say I could only be the NY rapper on old school beats, then that’s all I can ever do. So I say fuck it let me get a beat that sounds like it came from space, let me sing a chorus because I feel like it. To me it’s more about being a musician. To say I’m a Hip hop artist means I can only do THIS. I want to be a music artist. I just want to do this MY way. L: In the game today, who sets the bar for you? Who is top notch to Dom P? DP: I guess different people for different things. For delivery…honestly it has to be Lil’ Wayne and J Cole. Lil Wayne is never predictable and J Cole sounds like he’s always starving. As far as lyrics, Jay-Z is still up there, Nas’s latest work is awesome. The key players are always the key players. Drake’s So Far Gone was good…. L: We’ll keep it at that first mixtape? (laughs) DP: Yea, we’ll keep it right there. Cut the tape off! (laughs). Again lyrically? I give it to Jay Electronica also…He focuses on lyrics so I can’t be mad at that. Freddy Gibbs! This new kid man, he’s very old-schoolish. Productivity: Lil’ Wayne sets the bar on that. Man, he recorded 500 songs in a year?! Can’t top that. L: So does that make Wayne as the King in your eyes? DP: Naahhh…there is no king…to me it’s wide open…to me Jay-Z was the king…when he took that retirement and came back…it’s like he’s Jordan with the 45, but he just hasn’t won the chip again. The throne is definitely wide open and everyone’s fighting for it but it’s vacant. Find more Dom P info and music @ Domponline.com Facebook fan pages for Dom P and Music for Daze whatismfd.com
Dom P Dom P is a multi-talented Dominican artist who hails from Washington Heights. Blessed with the multi-faceted ability to rap, sing and produce his own music, he is a triple threat, something that is currently unheard of in the music industry. Dom P and his crew Music For Daze has achieved much acclaim since their formation in 2007. Lipmo: Lyricist phenomenon Dom P! …What’s the good word? How are you doing? Dom P: Everything is well; working hard..as usual! L: Excellent! Stale water causes mosquitoes! So let’s break down who Dom P is, where he is from and what the whole MFD (Music For Daze) movement is about. DP: Dom P is a NYC based lyricist, songwriter, apparently a singer (chuckles). That has its own back story to it though. MFD more so is more important because MFD has been strictly Latin pushed. That’s never been done before. Everything is always framed as a movement…cuz that’s the quickest way to get people riled up..like get the Zeitgeist in people and shit (laughs). It’s like, “It’s a movement, I’m down” black fist and shit. Everyone that currently plays a part in it is Latino and that’s important. It’s almost all Dominican. We got 1 photographer who’s Puerto Rican so that’s the curveball I guess (chuckles). So, MFD is a commitment to making good music, to good vibes. That’s one thing you can say about the rap songs, even the fucking freestyles: It has a mood. This is how I felt or whoever I was around felt at this time, so this is how we made it. I guess it’s kind of in the name. That’s why we chose it. It’s a daze that puts you in a state…a different state. As opposed to being fucking brain dead. L: You mean like what’s pretty much going on right now.. DP: Exactly L: So by you saying this is an All-Latino movement, are you saying that you’re a man of the people; meaning YOUR people? DP: Yes. But not in a corny way! I don’t know if you’ve picked up on that. I don’t throw a Spanish word in a rhyme or do a Reggaeton collaboration or constantly shout out Dominicans. I just think it’s one of those things where when it comes it comes. Like alright this kid made it. Now where do you come from? Washington Heights? Oh that’s a Dominican enclave. You weren’t the black kid there, you were actually Dominican (laughs). I always thought about this…It’s funny, I never told anybody about this shit but if and when I make it (God willing)…since I can speak Spanish…If I can get on Don Francisco and shit (laughs). I’d tell that nigga “yo man! You played more of a part than 106 & Park did in my life!” you know? That versatility; I got it, it’s got to come but I don’t beg for it… It’s just there. Same way you guys operate. You don’t pick out individual races and say, “Hey, you got to rep for us because you’re Latino or white”. L: I dig that. At the end of the day, in your own sense are you still going to solidify a spot for your people and your birthplace? Dom P: Definitely. One thing I can say for Washington Height and Inwood is it has had good singers. No offense to the rappers (this might be controversial) but I’ve heard good rappers, but not good ideas or lyrics. Not even to toot the horn but Roy-Al is the only one I’ve heard with a DIFFERENT thought. The worst part about the rappers in the hood is they’re good…What’s that word we came up with? Diagnosticians? (laughs). Niggas that can diagnose a problem but don’t do shit about it. Niggas that know how to criticize hip-hop and the problems it has, but they AREN’T the solution. I just want to open up that lane..like if there’s a Latin kid that can rap. He doesn’t have to play that angle; He’s just nice and happens to be Latino. Big Pun was like the fucking anomaly. People couldn’t wrap around the idea that he was Puerto Rican but he could rap. Even with Eminem, all these people are the exclusions to the rule. There’s such a strong African American stronghold. It has its own history of course but they’re just like us. They just don’t see us as them. I guess that’s why Hip Hop is such a unifying thing. Like “I can do that to and do it well” So I definitely want to carve a space for Washington Heights because it’s gotten a bad rap throughout the years. L: It continues to have that rap with some of the work that’s being put out there still… Dom P: Yea, I think I have a shot to give it a great name. Like “holy shit, this kid can rap, sing and produce? He’s nice!” I can showcase all my skills, not be THAT GUY (laughs) L: That reminds me of a line from your track GRAMMY COMING SOON where you said “As far as having room to grow, all I see is space like an astronaut.” As far as that line goes for the rest of the rap game; are you addressing other rappers? What exactly are you trying to say? Dom P: It’s a dual answer. I’m not putting down other rappers. It’s just noting the fact that they’re limited. To whatever they may be limiting themselves to. Some niggas, you’ll catch it (snaps) like on a mix tape they’ll be so broad and verbose. They just say whatever it is. Then the album comes and it’s completely stringent. You sound like someone told you to say that. When I finally realized I wanted to do Hip-Hop, I knew I could do whatever I wanted with it. I got it in my head that hip hop is a form of expression. Niggas SAY that but they don’t DO that. Like “this is a form of expression but I’mma be like every other nigga”. That’s a conundrum! Like nigga that don’t work! There’s no reason I should see a limitation. To give myself a limitation makes ME the limitation. If I say I could only be the NY rapper on old school beats, then that’s all I can ever do. So I say fuck it let me get a beat that sounds like it came from space, let me sing a chorus because I feel like it. To me it’s more about being a musician. To say I’m a Hip hop artist means I can only do THIS. I want to be a music artist. I just want to do this MY way. L: In the game today, who sets the bar for you? Who is top notch to Dom P? DP: I guess different people for different things. For delivery…honestly it has to be Lil’ Wayne and J Cole. Lil Wayne is never predictable and J Cole sounds like he’s always starving. As far as lyrics, Jay-Z is still up there, Nas’s latest work is awesome. The key players are always the key players. Drake’s So Far Gone was good…. L: We’ll keep it at that first mixtape? (laughs) DP: Yea, we’ll keep it right there. Cut the tape off! (laughs). Again lyrically? I give it to Jay Electronica also…He focuses on lyrics so I can’t be mad at that. Freddy Gibbs! This new kid man, he’s very old-schoolish. Productivity: Lil’ Wayne sets the bar on that. Man, he recorded 500 songs in a year?! Can’t top that. L: So does that make Wayne as the King in your eyes? DP: Naahhh…there is no king…to me it’s wide open…to me Jay-Z was the king…when he took that retirement and came back…it’s like he’s Jordan with the 45, but he just hasn’t won the chip again. The throne is definitely wide open and everyone’s fighting for it but it’s vacant. Find more Dom P info and music @ Domponline.com Facebook fan pages for Dom P and Music for Daze whatismfd.com
“I dont get brushed off as just another rapper" by Johnny T.
Music For Daze is a New York City based entertainment group started in 2007, with the ultimate goal being bringing great original and uplifting music to the masses. [They] specialize in music entertainment in front of audiences and behind the scenes production. Mastering Music, Blending Songs, Unique Instrumental Production, Song Writing, Video Directing, Photography and Artist Promotion. The first featured artist, Dom P, is catching a buzz in Nyc, Va and NJ and soon, worldwide. With his 4th mixtape/album, and many videos on youtube capturing the minds of many, Dom P is sounding like a veteran behind the mic. When did you decide you wanted to dedicate your life to music? It would be more accurate for me to say that it was somewhere between my junior year in High School. Everyone was so concerned with the SATs and applying to colleges, while I was writing verses in the back of my notebooks and worrying about how good they were. Not that I didn’t prepare and do well, but what I felt passionate about was music. So in that year, I realized maybe this was more than just an after-school hobby and something I felt serious about pursuing. I’ve taken the liberty of listening to one of your past projects titled ‘I Make Music’ and I noticed that you produced a few tracks. Did you begin producing out of necessity or was that another step toward your evolution as an artist? It definitely began as necessity because it was difficult to find any new producers creating a sound that I felt comfortable with. When I realized I could produce beats (without ANY samples by the way), I realized that I could take command of my whole musical vision and create whatever vibe or feeling I ever wanted. Consequently, the necessity is what fueled my evolution as an artist, into a facet of music I never knew I could tackle. The first beat I seriously made was for a song called “Shades of Me” and when people actually responded positively, I knew I had something. It was a whole new sense of freedom when it came to music and I. Where do you draw inspiration from as an artist? Mainly from my unsettled thoughts. Whatever aspect of my life I have questions, doubts or strong feelings about, is normally what ends up being incorporated in my music. I try to never draw a line when writing and always speak the absolute truth so that when the people get to the music, they feel the sincerity in the lyrics, even if they can’t relate to the content. As far as production is concerned, I draw inspiration from everything and everyone, ranging from Joni Mitchell to Jay-Z to Juan Luis Guerra. What would you call your ‘style’? I would call my style multi-faceted. One day, I’ll go at a beat like I’m trying to shut down a cipher and sound hungrier than any other artist. The next, I’ll sing a song or write something deep to connect with people. It’s perhaps why I always exclaim that I’m from New York and that I am New York, because New York’s multi-dimensional dynamic is how I feel as an artist. After listening to more of your music I went back and watched your video ‘History Takes Time’ again. The song and video is a good representation of you as an artist. The video is part 2 of a 3 part series. Can you explain the series? The series is pretty much a visual/audio explanation of who I am, what I do, where I’m from and what’s to come. It’s like I’m handing the world my resume. The fact that you never see my face is harking to the title of my upcoming project: “The Faceless Fame”, which is pretty much pitting my integrity for music and becoming famous against each other. Not showing my face or having extraneous cars or women in the video is my way of urging people not to notice me or the bullshit, but just the music. Therefore, “I’m Gone” and “History Takes Time” are just bait to display how good I can rap and produce and execute a vision, and not how quick I can spend money. The third video (I’m hoping) will trump the first two fivefold. You have a pretty complete package in terms of a foundation for your presence on the web. How do you feel the internet has help and hindered independent/unsigned artists today? The Internet has definitely helped in the sense that it makes the world smaller, thus making music far more accessible to a wider audience, with very little resources behind it. So, if I make a song I want to share today, I can bank on potentially having millions of people come across it without ever leaving my house. It’s the distribution company most unsigned artists dream of. However, the Internet hinders artists because of the amount of people shooting for the same attention. Everyone pretty much has the same platform on the Internet, thus why it feels so crowded and like everyone is trying to rap and sing. So it’s as difficult to get discovered online as it used to be in the streets in the 90’s…due to artist overpopulation. So people pretty much lose interest in combing through unsigned artists because for every 1000, you’re lucky to fine two worth noting. Do you have any projects that will be released on the web anytime this year? Yes: The Faceless Fame. October. No exact date, but that’s definitely the month. A lot of freestyles and giveaway songs will be released from here to then. What’s the best thing about being a musician? The freedom it gives you in your work. There is no restriction in making music. Unless you allow yourself any, which then makes being a musician just another job. What’s the worst? My girlfriend would say the lack of punctuality. I would say it’s the negative connotation it carries when you’re grouped with people who claim to be musicians, but have no integrity at all. Then people assume you’re as delusional or as shallow as they are. There’s a certain stigma behind being an MC in Hip Hop today. How do you feel people interpret your work as an MC? I think people interpret it exactly as I put it forward: as someone who cares about Hip Hop and music overall, and just tries to do his best and offer something special. After people hear the music, I don’t get brushed off as just another rapper, which is the biggest fear you have when you’re an MC. Luckily, people notice that I try hard and realize that there is something different in the writing and the production. I normally get the “you’re that lyrical dude” or the “you need to make it because Hip Hop needs this”, so I feel I’m making the impact I want. Not to say that I don’t want millions of dollars, but making the music connect is my prime concern. I think everything else will fall into place if that component is secure. Where can more of your work be found? www.DomPOnline.com, www.Facebook.com/DomPMusic and www.WhatIsMFD.com. Is there anything else you’d like to add? That I am honored that IVYBetty even considered featuring me because you guys are so classy and awesome! Also, lookout for the 3rd and final video of the series and all the free music I’ll be giving away soon. Oh and shout out to my team…Music For Daze!
Music For Daze is a New York City based entertainment group started in 2007, with the ultimate goal being bringing great original and uplifting music to the masses. [They] specialize in music entertainment in front of audiences and behind the scenes production. Mastering Music, Blending Songs, Unique Instrumental Production, Song Writing, Video Directing, Photography and Artist Promotion. The first featured artist, Dom P, is catching a buzz in Nyc, Va and NJ and soon, worldwide. With his 4th mixtape/album, and many videos on youtube capturing the minds of many, Dom P is sounding like a veteran behind the mic. When did you decide you wanted to dedicate your life to music? It would be more accurate for me to say that it was somewhere between my junior year in High School. Everyone was so concerned with the SATs and applying to colleges, while I was writing verses in the back of my notebooks and worrying about how good they were. Not that I didn’t prepare and do well, but what I felt passionate about was music. So in that year, I realized maybe this was more than just an after-school hobby and something I felt serious about pursuing. I’ve taken the liberty of listening to one of your past projects titled ‘I Make Music’ and I noticed that you produced a few tracks. Did you begin producing out of necessity or was that another step toward your evolution as an artist? It definitely began as necessity because it was difficult to find any new producers creating a sound that I felt comfortable with. When I realized I could produce beats (without ANY samples by the way), I realized that I could take command of my whole musical vision and create whatever vibe or feeling I ever wanted. Consequently, the necessity is what fueled my evolution as an artist, into a facet of music I never knew I could tackle. The first beat I seriously made was for a song called “Shades of Me” and when people actually responded positively, I knew I had something. It was a whole new sense of freedom when it came to music and I. Where do you draw inspiration from as an artist? Mainly from my unsettled thoughts. Whatever aspect of my life I have questions, doubts or strong feelings about, is normally what ends up being incorporated in my music. I try to never draw a line when writing and always speak the absolute truth so that when the people get to the music, they feel the sincerity in the lyrics, even if they can’t relate to the content. As far as production is concerned, I draw inspiration from everything and everyone, ranging from Joni Mitchell to Jay-Z to Juan Luis Guerra. What would you call your ‘style’? I would call my style multi-faceted. One day, I’ll go at a beat like I’m trying to shut down a cipher and sound hungrier than any other artist. The next, I’ll sing a song or write something deep to connect with people. It’s perhaps why I always exclaim that I’m from New York and that I am New York, because New York’s multi-dimensional dynamic is how I feel as an artist. After listening to more of your music I went back and watched your video ‘History Takes Time’ again. The song and video is a good representation of you as an artist. The video is part 2 of a 3 part series. Can you explain the series? The series is pretty much a visual/audio explanation of who I am, what I do, where I’m from and what’s to come. It’s like I’m handing the world my resume. The fact that you never see my face is harking to the title of my upcoming project: “The Faceless Fame”, which is pretty much pitting my integrity for music and becoming famous against each other. Not showing my face or having extraneous cars or women in the video is my way of urging people not to notice me or the bullshit, but just the music. Therefore, “I’m Gone” and “History Takes Time” are just bait to display how good I can rap and produce and execute a vision, and not how quick I can spend money. The third video (I’m hoping) will trump the first two fivefold. You have a pretty complete package in terms of a foundation for your presence on the web. How do you feel the internet has help and hindered independent/unsigned artists today? The Internet has definitely helped in the sense that it makes the world smaller, thus making music far more accessible to a wider audience, with very little resources behind it. So, if I make a song I want to share today, I can bank on potentially having millions of people come across it without ever leaving my house. It’s the distribution company most unsigned artists dream of. However, the Internet hinders artists because of the amount of people shooting for the same attention. Everyone pretty much has the same platform on the Internet, thus why it feels so crowded and like everyone is trying to rap and sing. So it’s as difficult to get discovered online as it used to be in the streets in the 90’s…due to artist overpopulation. So people pretty much lose interest in combing through unsigned artists because for every 1000, you’re lucky to fine two worth noting. Do you have any projects that will be released on the web anytime this year? Yes: The Faceless Fame. October. No exact date, but that’s definitely the month. A lot of freestyles and giveaway songs will be released from here to then. What’s the best thing about being a musician? The freedom it gives you in your work. There is no restriction in making music. Unless you allow yourself any, which then makes being a musician just another job. What’s the worst? My girlfriend would say the lack of punctuality. I would say it’s the negative connotation it carries when you’re grouped with people who claim to be musicians, but have no integrity at all. Then people assume you’re as delusional or as shallow as they are. There’s a certain stigma behind being an MC in Hip Hop today. How do you feel people interpret your work as an MC? I think people interpret it exactly as I put it forward: as someone who cares about Hip Hop and music overall, and just tries to do his best and offer something special. After people hear the music, I don’t get brushed off as just another rapper, which is the biggest fear you have when you’re an MC. Luckily, people notice that I try hard and realize that there is something different in the writing and the production. I normally get the “you’re that lyrical dude” or the “you need to make it because Hip Hop needs this”, so I feel I’m making the impact I want. Not to say that I don’t want millions of dollars, but making the music connect is my prime concern. I think everything else will fall into place if that component is secure. Where can more of your work be found? www.DomPOnline.com, www.Facebook.com/DomPMusic and www.WhatIsMFD.com. Is there anything else you’d like to add? That I am honored that IVYBetty even considered featuring me because you guys are so classy and awesome! Also, lookout for the 3rd and final video of the series and all the free music I’ll be giving away soon. Oh and shout out to my team…Music For Daze!
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