Today we’d like to introduce you to Antonio Martinez.
Hi Antonio, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I like to think that I’m a bit lucky. I was born into a musical family and been around instruments since I can remember. The earliest memories I have are being taught by my dad. Since about 5 years old, he would take me to all his gigs. I had an assigned seat on the floor next to him on stage and at rehearsals. At one point his bandmates got so sick of me banging my sticks on the floor because it would cause them to lose focus. They asked him to stop bringing me up on stage with him. His reply was “Either you deal with it or you can find yourself another conguero”
That was my upbringing. I felt the music before I ever knew how to play an instrument. To his bandmates I was making distracting noise. In my head I was playing the meanest timbal solo ever.
Eventually my parents saw I had an interest in music and put me into some music classes. The first instrument was the piano. That was cool and all but didn’t catch my attention. Then one summer my ma took me to El Salvador with her for a couple months when I was about 11 years old. While we were out there I studied under the drummer for Yolocamba Ita everyday.
Yolocamba Ita was one of the many bands I grew up around as a kid. There was also the members of Cutumay Camones, Chiltic Istac, Los Guaraguao, and many others. Being surrounded by this I was exposed to the ideologies, values, and culture that comes with those who were involved in revolutionary movements throughout latin america, especially el salvador. I would hear stories of these musicians touring, playing in guerilla camps, performing in Europe, and stories about war.
Once I came back home I was appointed to be the drummer for my family’s project, Colectivo Cenizas. A collective that wrote music about the salvadorian struggle, songs paying homage to revolutionary heroes, music revolving around social justice and a lot of latin american classics like mercedes sosa, victor jara, etc. Most of the shows we played were cultural celebrations. So as I played and continued to evolve my musical knowledge I was also able to gain knowledge and awareness about who I am, where I come from, my families struggle and the struggle of so many other people that look like me. Although I loved the instrument, all I wanted to do was play outside with my friends at that age. I remember during rehearsal my friends from the neighborhood would come over and call me to come play, but I was never allowed to play till rehearsal was over.
Fast forward to now. If my dad hadn’t made me stay on that drum kit, I don’t know where I’d be today. Ever since I’ve been on a journey that has led me to Portland, Oregon. Being out here was a major culture shock for me. To be completely honest I was close to leaving if it wasn’t for having met local dj/musician Omie, who introduced me to alot of brown talent in Portland. I found a community that I felt a part of and continued to meet so many lovely and passionate people that made me feel at home. So I continue to share with the world my history and the history of my people through my instrument.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I think as a creative in general, there are many struggles I deal with. Growing up I didn’t know any one who survived off of music. So its been hard for me to maintain the same faith I have in myself and my journey for 16 years. There are times where it seems like this isn’t going to work out for me. But there is always a sign for me to keep going. Throughout my journey I have come across many people who believed in me so much that I have never stopped believing.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a musician, producer and DJ. I have been through many phases throughout my instrumental journey. They have all revolved around the percussion. I play the drums, timbal, bongo and conga.
For the last few years I have been specializing in congas. I play a lot of latin rhythms like cumbia, salsa, bolero, latin jazz and merengue.
I think what sets me apart from others is that there aren’t many people my age playing the music or instrument that I’m playing.
I’m most proud of keeping the legacy of my ancestors alive through my instrument.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
A lot of times we beat ourselves up when we have some kind of artistic block. I’ve grown to learn that if you see your craft as your life, that’s not the case. There’s been times when I can’t create something for months and yes it does get frustrating. I tell myself that being alive another day, sharing a meal with a loved one, going on a walk, showing up for yourself, reflecting, exercising,etc. It is all part of the creative process.
My gift, my talent and my craft are the way I live my life. Through that I learn as much about myself as I do about my instrument.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsonlyforrightnow/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDpUsnV06XE5j5FSvD8GTgg
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/4rightnow
- Other: https://direct.me/forrightnow?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAcGRvZgJzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA85MzY2MTk3NDMzOTI0NTkAAafwVckIc-T8q_A8hM_ZURVeueu67yEMx8eust-xp8nqpArswqj-49cGsneU3Q_aem_oHUx5s3CXGcpnFyRXGH9jA
