Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Cruz Ochoa. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Cruz thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s jump right into how you came up with the idea?
I’ve always had a love for music, mostly for Hip-Hop. I would memorize and recite lyrics to my favorite songs as a kid. I didn’t consider writing my own lyrics until I was 16, thanks to a friend I met in art class who challenged me to write and exposed me to artists I hadn’t heard of before. Another friend I met in high school got me to start recording when I was 17. I’m still releasing projects to this day with that same friend through a group called “Highest Low”. Although this journey in music has solely been a passion project, it’s now getting to a point where it’s becoming somewhat lucrative. I’m now 36 and I’m at a point where I feel more inspired than ever. I may not be backed with a major label budget but what matters the most to me is creating what I love, growing as an artist and seeing my music connect with people all over.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My name is Cruz Ocho and I’m a writer, performer, and recording artist; or a “part-time rapper”. I spent a lot of years as part of a duo called Highest Low and we did most of our work in Chicago. In the past couple of years I’ve branched out exploring my capabilities as a solo artist; while continuing to actively release music through “Highest Low” and other collaborative projects. I had also moved from the Chicagoland area to Tucson, Arizona. Where I’ve found new inspiration and have unexpectedly been busier with music-related projects than ever before. I’m proud of the music I make and nothing brings me more joy than seeing people connect what something I’ve written.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
It’s most rewarding seeing people connect to the music I make. My sound doesn’t necessarily fit the mold of what’s considered mainstream Hip-Hop in today’s climate, but I can say that the music I make is authentically me.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
I’m 36 going on 37 in a couple of months. It’s common for guys my age to have hobbies like golfing or fantasy football LOL My hobby just happens to be writing, recording, and performing. Getting paid occasionally from it is just a bonus. I’m still learning much about the business side of things but overall I have no regrets about my journey. I’m not making music with the hope of “getting on” or “getting signed”; I’m just doing what I love to do.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://cruzocho.bandcamp.com
- Instagram: @cruzocho8
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CruzOcho8
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvxcJdcED81bdoT_5kJFW8w