We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Alejandro Cuesta a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alejandro , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. The first dollar you earn is always exciting – it’s like the start of a new chapter and so we’d love to hear about the first time you sold or generated revenue from your creative work?
The first time I was hired to be a Dj in New York City was to open a Colombian party in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. I didn’t know how to operate CDJ’s yet, so I went to Sam Ash on 34th St. and bought the cheapest controller available to use with my laptop.
The night was a success and after I couple days I went back and returned the controller.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Alejandro Cuesta and I go by the alias of Tropico Beats. I’m a Dj, music producer and beatmaker hailing from the city of Medellin, Colombia and currently based in the US. I make music using electronic means and technology from different eras. My approach is often experimental and it may range from Lofi Hip Hop to uptempo styles such as acid house and electro. I’m a vinyl collector and I play sets in Hi Fi lounges and listening bars around NYC and I produce a show on public radio station WESU 88.1 FM.
I’m proud of my upcoming album called ‘Eternal Spring Soul’ pressed by underground and well respected label ‘Potions NYC’ from Queens. I’m also proud of having played in some of the hottest spots for audiophiles and sound system lovers in the city of New York such as Studio151, Good bar, Bierwax, Sound Room and many more. I’m proud to produce radio independently on a station with more than 90 years of existence.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
I think when it comes to art, metrics such as numbers, ratings and popularity, shouldn’t determine the importance or viability of a project.
Artists need freedom and space to create. Our work should be funded and independent from those who do so, and always and forever question everything.
Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?
I find a lot of inspiration in the stories of people told by themselves. The podcast by maestro and drummer Questlove called ‘Questlove Supreme” has given me that for a long time. They have the best guests and the interviews flow in such an authentic way that you can’t help feeling inspired by their scenes of struggle and success.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @tropicobeats
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/tropicobeats
