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Mira Mira
featuring Pitbull and Notch |
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Arkdaincredible |
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In an
industry where it seems as though every possible
frontier has been discovered and conquered - and
exploited, for that matter - T-Weaponz stands alone. Out
of the gutters of Brooklyn's East New York section,
these “Rebel Ricans” are on the verge of becoming the
first trans-national Hip Hop group, and they are ready
to conquer tomorrow’s music scene – a place where
multi-lingual and diverse cultures are united under one
common voice. T-Weaponz recent single “Mira Mira”
features Reggaeton sensation Notch, formerly of Born
Jamericans, and Miami Crunk star Pitbull. Bringing
together a blend of today’s hottest music, the song was
featured on the group’s 2004 mixtape Survival Muzik, and
caught on quickly with deejays everywhere to set the
pace for T-Weaponz in 2005. The newest single “Who Wants
What (Quein Quiere Que)” goes to radio this April, and
the group has an incredible array of projects coming up,
including a new full length album this Summer, their own
characters in the upcoming Scarface video game, and a
world tour in the works. With early influences ranging
from legendary emcees like Big Daddy Kane, Rakim, Grand
Puba and Kool G Rap, to classic television shows
including Yo! MTV Raps, Video Music Box, and Hot Trax,
the three young men of T-Weaponz were immersed in Hip
Hop culture from birth. Izreal wrote his first song when
he was only five years old, while his brother Arkitek
had a gift for remembering lyrics in his favorite songs
and reciting them word for word. Their childhood friend
Psalmz found that his own critical analysis of Hip Hop
music inspired him to write his own songs. Once the
three joined together to create T-Weaponz, initially
known as ‘Tomorowz Weaponz’, they knew that they had
destiny on their side. “Where we were from, there
weren't many Latin emcees visible,” explains Psalmz,
“and if they were visible they weren't ready or seasoned
enough to support themselves in the music business. It
was odd back then for Latin people to rhyme, because we
were always considered better taggers and break dancers.
We invited the challenge, and so far we’re up one.” T-Weaponz
first official single, “City of The Gods”, immediately
earned them a buzz on the New York scene in the late
‘90s. In 2003 the group released their independent
debut, the BlackOut EP, which featured the single
“Raised in the Slums” produced by acclaimed beatsmith
Alchemist. The song garnered play on European radio,
while the group’s popularity also began to pick up steam
in the Spanish-speaking communities of Los Angeles,
California. The release of “Mira Mira” was well
received, and now the group is celebrating full-fledged
international success as Europe, Canada, Japan and South
America all have embraced the vibe of their music. Fans
can also find the full BlackOut EP at Apple’s I-Tunes
store online. The multi-talented group possesses the
ability to maneuver on any beat, as well as the lyrical
ability to captivate an audience through one of music’s
rawest forms of expression. Their ability to rock mics
both in Spanish and English sets them at the forefront
of global success. Psalmz explains that the lack of
originality in new Hip Hop has driven the trio to blaze
their own trails. “My modern day inspiration goes beyond
rap music,” he says. “It ranges from the Dalai Lama's
art to Mexico’s legendary Vicente Fernandez’ ageless
ambition to continue singing. I also admire the work
ethic of Kanye West and the entrepreneurial spirit of
Jay-Z - most things that defy odds, I can only respect.”
“I'm a fan of our music,” says Arkitek. “It’s like I
anticipate our next song just like a fan would. I draw
inspiration from life itself - from my struggles, my
wins, my losses, my family, and even my enemies.”
Allowing their natural energies to work for them is
important in the creative process. “My writing comes in
cycles,” explains Izreal. “I don't rush it, I let it
come to me - especially with choruses. When it comes to
me and I memorize it off the top, I know it has a chance
to stick.” T-Weaponz has already worked with some
prominent producers in both Spanish and English,
including Mexicano777 from Puerto Rico, Alchemist,
Domingo, and Ayetollah. They have also appeared on
several compilations including Domingo’s Game Over and
Para Mi Gente, and the soundtrack of the John Leguizamo/Jellybean
Benitez-produced documentary Nuyorican Dream. The
consistently good quality of their music has inspired a
following in college and underground radio, satellite
radio, and online radio shows. They have been asked to
perform at various venues in New York with the likes of
DMX, the late Big Pun, dead prez, Wu-Tang Clan, Boot
Camp Clik, DJ Tony Touch, Jay-Z, Beanie Sigel, and Mos
Def. This summer T-Weaponz will release a new
full-length album, and are already booking several shows
around the world. The journey of success is exciting for
T-Weaponz, and the group enjoys sharing their messages
with fans. “We speak of struggle - not glorifying the
hoods we live in, but how to change them,” explains
Izreal. Psalmz agrees that the connection with people is
a relatable experience, and that the group does their
best to come with new ideas at every turn. “Fans love
the mystery of the unexpected,” says Psalmz. “People are
awaiting what's next from T-Weaponz, and we are ready to
deliver. We want to be known for making good music,
period.”
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