LIL REAP
Interviewed by: Kristin

Where did your name originate and what does it mean to you?
My name was given to me by my friends at the age of 13. The name stands for Reconstructing - Every - Aspect - Possible and basically describes what I’m trying to do with my music so it means a whole lot to me.

Do you perform anywhere on a regular basis?
Not on any regular basis but I do perform at many different venues and events throughout the city of Chicago.

Well you are a Chi-town fav. What does it feel like to be so well loved in your hometown?
Words cannot explain the love that I have been shown. Since a kid I have always dreamed about making music and people enjoying the music I make for them. I feel blessed to have the opportunity to express myself the way I do.

What is your nationality?
I am 100% Pure Puerto Rican

Do you feel that your music has become different since your start in the music industry?
Yes my music has become different since I first entered the industry. I feel that I have grown mentally and have faced more experiences as I have gotten older, therefore giving me more to bring to the table on the topic side. Every year as I get more into the music I can see myself progress more and more.

How do you feel when you are on stage at a concert and you see all of your fans “jamming” to your music?
The feeling is like no other feeling in the world. When I’m on stage I feel like the world is mine and for that one moment in time all my worries are gone. As I look at the crowd as they show their appreciation towards my hard work I put into my music I can’t ask for anything more.

How would you describe the energy at one of your shows?
Well, it depends on the venue. I can bring it to you with a really hype party type feel or I can slow it down to a make you think type of mood. I guess it all depends what I feel the crowd is more into. Some crowds like to just sit back and listen to your words, where as others like to just “ wild out” to the music. Then there are times where I just give you a little mixture of both, but either way it’s a very energy filled set regardless.

Do you write all of your own songs?
Yes, all the songs I have performed or recorded I have written myself. Mainly because most of the songs I talk about life experiences that I’ve been through or witnessed in life, so who better to break it down but me.

Out of all of your songs, Which one is your favorite? Why?
My favorite would have to be “ Destiny “. The reason why is because it just breaks down life in many different ways from the verses to the strong powerful hook sung by Yajaira Santiago ( Jade ). When you listen to that song it makes you really think for a moment and that’s what I try to accomplish through my music.

So tell us about your newest album NEW BEGINNING album?
Well the title has been changed from “ A New Beginning “ to “ Reaproduction “. They both still have the same meaning. The album shows my versatility in the music and tells a short story of who I am and what I’ve been through. I also have many party joints for those who love to dance and express themselves in that way of the culture. Reaproduction displays the meaning of me trying to Reconstruct Every Aspect Possible (REAP) and take different styles of music and add my touch to it. I think it’s coming out to be a well-rounded album.

So it seems that you have grown up around music. How do you think that has effected you as an artist?
Well my pops was a heavy Congero / Salsero back in Jersey when he was younger. So while I was growing up I was always around the music and enjoyed watching him play his congas. I would sit and watch as he would get in his zone and just vibe out. I wanted that feeling also. So it made me curious and it was the spark of me starting my own music career. Thanks Pops!

Can you describe what it is like to be an up and coming musician?
First I can say that it’s hard. Mainly because your not known to everyone so a lot of times you find it hard to get people to give you that chance. Second it’s a challenge, because it lets me know that nothing comes easy in life and you have to earn your respect. Once you earn that respect and people start to recognize you, then you feel like you’re on top of the world. “ Up and Coming “ no longer exist, your just a step away.

So what does Lil Reap do in his spare time?
In my spare time I like to spend it with family and my beautiful fiancé along with my friends. I like going to the movies, bowling or just kicking back and reminiscing when we were younger. I’m just a regular down to earth type of guy.

What is something you have always wanted to do but have never done?
I always wanted to be a designer; I have the eye and mind for it. I think I have always been creative at everything I do and I love to be different.

Are there any artists who you would love to work with in the future?
Oh yes, I would love to do something with Talib Kweli and Common Sense. I love they way they deliver their music and the topics and issues they touch.

Influences
My Mom and Pops

What do you hope to accomplish before the end of 2005?
To be able to continue to make music and take my music a couple steps further to being heard by the world.

What is your official website?
My official website is www.lilreap.com

How do you promote your music and your website?
I do the majority of the promotion myself along with the help of some friends and family. We make flyers, email people, go out to parties and network with others and mainly word of mouth.

Anything else that you would like to add?
I just want the people to know that I put my whole heart into my music so I appreciate those who have shown me support. To all my fans and future fans I thank you, because you give me that drive I need every time I pick up a pen and paper. Also make sure you check out my website and message board for any info and updates on my music career. And last but not least I wanna thank Indie Street Latino for the interest you took in me and the support you give to local talent.