Hot off the charts comes the new hit single from Baby Rasta and Gringo, Amor Prohibido, about forbidden love and longing. It’s sure to be a hit with anyone who’s ever wanted something they couldn’t have. So, to celebrate, we sat down with them for a little heart to heart. Now, we’re bringing them to you.
Here’s the scoop:
é: Who influenced you the most in your journey to become artists?
Rasta and Gringo: Our influences are based on reggae and Hip-Hop artists, such as Bob Marley, Tupac and Notorious B.I.G. They were the ones who inspired us to be who we are today.
é: How did the two of you start collaborating together?
Rasta and Gringo: We grew up together in the barrio, we had friends in common and we became a duo the day we performed together at a talent show. That was in 1992 – it was instant chemistry and we have been inseparable ever since.
é: Tell about your new single, “Amor Prohibido.” What sets it apart for you?
Rasta and Gringo: Our new single is about a ‘forbidden love,’ something that all of us have gone through at some point in our lives. As soon as this song came out, our fans started to dedicate it to their loved ones. We see how they post the lyrics on Facebook and Twitter; they post photos on Instagram. We believe that what sets this song apart is the theme; everyone is attracted to what is forbidden and to passion.
é: How has your Puerto Rican heritage influenced your music?
Rasta and Gringo: We haven’t really been influenced by Puerto Rican culture because our music isn’t influenced by salsa. Instead we draw our inspiration from the Hip-Hop culture and American music.
é: Your single, “Me Niegas,” has met with HUGE success. What’s that been like? What’s the most surreal thing about your experience making music?
Rasta and Gringo: The success that “Me Niegas” has had has surprised everyone, not only us, but also the music industry. We’ve been working hard for many years, and this was the hit song that captured the attention of our fans from around the world. We want to thank the media, which has supported us in everything we do and our fans who made this song a #1 hit.
é: What advice do you have to any young people trying to break into the music industry?
Rasta and Gringo: We weren’t the best students, so when we went through bad situations in life we realized how important education is. The best advice we can give teenagers is to stay in school and to put education first, because music is very unpredictable. Teenagers need to put their education first, become professionals and then they can experiment with music. There are a lot of risks that need to be taken with music, not everyone becomes a star. You should fight for your dreams. but also remember what’s important in life.
é: What’s next for you?
Rasta and Gringo: We are currently working on the finishing touches for our upcoming album. “Me Niegas” and “Amor Prohibido” are a little taste of what fans can expect from it.
é: Any messages for your fans?
Rasta and Gringo: Don’t use drugs, say no to violence, get an education, and make a better future. Remember that the future is in your hands.
é: Just for fun, what would you choose for your last meal?
Rasta and Gringo: A Bandeja Paisa from Colombia, hahaha.
