We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Anthony Leto a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Anthony, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

Earlier this year (2023) in March I released an album called “AJ HAND ME DOWN”. This was a project I produced & recorded in my grandmothers living room. With supporting help with mixing from Delarose, Kev Speaks Truth, & Hero STW. Two tracks off the LP ( “Broken Hearted Pirate” & ‘Feel So High” ) produced & recorded at Sauce Bucket Studios with SBChrome. This project highlights many emotions I had dealt with from 2019-2021. Questioning moralities, Heartbreak, Depression, & feeling stray. Writing these records was a form of therapy, assisting me in letting weight off my chest. Expressing & pushing myself as a creator, experimenting with different styles of music.

Anthony, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My name is Anthony Leto, many know me as “AHZUWOP”. I am a creator based in Fort Myers, Florida. I always enjoyed creating art since a young child. I still have drawings & art pieces from very early stages of my life. I got introduced to creating beats when I was 15, by a friend of mine (Tristan Smith). Expanding my knowledge on my own terms by producing beats on my phone & releasing them on SoundCloud. As time progressed creating beats turned into producing full songs, When I was 17 my brother (Joseph Leto) recognized how passionate I became about creating music. He wanted to help me take my music to the next level, by surprising me with a MacBook pro. He then took me to pick up an audio interface, studio microphone & a groove box. I produced, recorded & released my first song within the first week of acquiring this equipment. Towards the end of high school I started diving back into visual arts creating abstract paintings & collages. After graduating high school I decided to take myself as an Artist/Brand more serious. While working multiple jobs I would set up my art & perform every week at various different open mics & shows around SWFL. That introduced me to so many people like myself. Also allowed me to grow as an Artist in every field. “AHZUWOP” has turned into a full extension of me as an Artist. From Producing music, Painting murals, Designing Clothing, Sculpting, to Directing.. I have so much to offer the world. I am grateful for the support thus far, I want to inspire through Art forever..

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

When I was 16 a friend of mine named Virginia West gave me a book called ” The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz. I’ve always questioned & struggled with spirituality growing up. The context was very relatable, & confirming for my sense of self. Treating others how you want to be treated, respecting differences, not taking anything too personal. I will recommend it to everyone!

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist would be creating something from nothing. Whether it’s a blank canvas, or an assortment of sounds. I draw inspiration from everything & everywhere. Having a final piece of art you created which you can get lost in, or listen to on repeat for hours is a priceless feeling. The fact that others are able to enjoy your creations as well, using them as a source of inspiration is the most beautiful part. Sharing that extension of your soul to the world can be very vulnerable yet freeing. Timeless creations, Art that will last forever!      

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ahzuwop.onuniverse.com/portfolio
• Instagram: @ahzuwop @ahzuart
• Facebook: Anthony Leto
• Twitter: @ahzuwop
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ahzuwop

Image Credits
Sway International, The Hippie Circle, Jamiel Betancourt