Papi Chulo
Interviewed by Miguel López

How’s it going Papi Chulo? Where are you right now and what are you up to?

Right now we are trying to finish my new album called "Quien Te Perrea". This album features up and coming producers such as myself, Shako, Bmc, Dj Edii, Don Draganon.

Most Mexican musicians from California are known for singing West Coast Hip Hop. What made you break the rules and choose Reggaeton? Was there a particular artist who captured your attention and made you want to experiment with this genre?

The reason I chose Reggaeton was the fact that no west coast artist was doing it at that time and especially a Mexican artist. I guess people still stereotype the music for only Dominicans and Boricuas and I took advantage of that.

 

Since Reggaeton is mostly dominated by Boricuas and Dominicanos, was breaking into the industry harder for you being from Mexico?

It hasn't been hard being accepted as a Reggaeton artist because I manage to sing this type of music well, thank God.

As one of the best-known Mexican Reggaeton artists, do you think you have a responsibility to help those who come after you? Do you see yourself as a trailblazer for other artists from Central and Sudamerica to break into the Reggaeton industry?

I have always been good at heart and if someone needs advice and they think I can help them I will. Ivy Queen has given me advice and I feel that I should help others too.

In what ways do you think Reggaeton will evolve over the next few years? What will artists have to do in order to keep the magic alive?

I honestly feel that I'm going to be the person responsible for changing the Reggaeton music if people accept my new album then everyone from other races are going to try it. If a Mexican can sing Reggaeton so can I.

You’ve had the chance to tour with La Diva [Ivy Queen], Nicky Jam, and others. What was the most amazing thing you experienced on tour?

The best experience was my first sold out show people screaming and yelling your name you never want it to end.

What are your music plans for this year? Can we expect any new releases from you? If so, can you tell us about them?

I have 3 compilations that are coming out in March of 2006 one called Sueltalo, Matadores and Jamz Volume 4. They will be released by Universal and Omni Ent.

Mexicano 777 is signed with your label, Roof Records, as well. Will you collaborate on any future songs? Do you have any other collaborations in the works?

I haven't heard his music but I heard he is very good. I hope we can do something in the future I wouldn't mind.

How would you describe your single, “Viborita”? What makes this song stand out from the others?

I describe the song Viborita as the next Macarena. It is a clean song that any person can enjoy and dance to. I hope it gets to be a hit some day.

Where can your fans hear your music and get a taste of Papi Chulo?

You can find out more about Papi Chulo and the new cd on my website www.papi-c.com

There are a few artists at top of their game who can’t dance Reggaeton. Are you one of those artists or are you a dancing machine?

I am also surprised that almost every Reggaeton artist doesn't know how to dance this music everybody dances the music except the artists. Not me I think I'm the first Reggaeton artist that dances to the music also.

Besides Reggaeton, what kinds of music do you listen to? What other genres influence your songs?

I listen to every type of music Spanish, Hip Hop, R&B and even Country sometimes I listen to this music to get ideas and inspiration to make my music.

Piracy is a big issue in the music industry. How do you feel about the issue? What would you say to your fans that use illegal means to obtain your music?

I guess it’s very hard to tell a person not to download when it is so easy to do it and especially when it is free on some sites. I would like to work with a record label to get people to buy Cd's again the only way I feel they will buy is if we put contests where you win free tickets or merchandise or even a car.

Sometimes the media tries to relate Reggaeton to sex. What is your personal view on that matter?

I try not to use too much sex into my songs because too many youngsters listen to this music. I sing in a lot of schools so that's why I'm careful on what I say in songs. I have been successful so far.

For the Viboritas who are listening to your songs out there, this is the most important question: Are you SINGLE? Do you live up to your name, Papi Chulo?

No, I'm Married but I still give a great show and I still interact with my fans that's why I feel I have been successful in my career.

Well, thank you for your time, Papi Chulo! God bless you on your projects y que viva el Reggaeton!

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Papi Chulo: the newest edition to the hottest record
label The Roof Records. He is considered
to be the first Mexican Reggaeton artist. Born in
Juarez Mex. but raised in California¹s Central Valley.
Papi C always knew that there was something special about him
and music. He always felt in his heart that he was
going to make it in the music business some day. After
four years in the music he discovered Reggaeton music
in Los Angeles and decided to pursue this up in
coming music. After a year of touring with the hottest
groups in the Reggaeton music like Ivy Queen, Nicky
Jam and even groups like Akwid, he finally got the
attention of the Roof Records Company. This company
was the first to televise Spanish hip hop and
Reggaeton music and videos on their t.v show ³The
Roof.² now airing on Mas Musica Teve network.