Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Emmanuel Castro. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Emmanuel, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Do you wish you had started sooner?

I have always been the sooner rather than later type of guy, but as life comes your path will always change, most of the time for good. I started music at a very young age (5 years old) and traveled the world with other children who share the same passion for music as me. We got the opportunity of performing on big as well as more miniature stages in Puerto Rico my homeland and worldwide. But it wasn’t until 2016 that I decided to fully educate myself in Music Production through Full Sail University graduating with honors and being awarded the Advance Achievement Award all while I was on Active Duty in the US Army and had become a new father. This time around I sort of started later rather than sooner but I already had other skills that would help me launch my potential to higher levels. It is going to be a wild and bumpy ride as a creative mind but it sure is worth every sacrifice. Now I think there’s no sooner or later but more so the “NOW” is when you take the step towards building a successful career.

Emmanuel, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My name is Emmanuel Castro Lugo also known as Manny Lugo a.k.a. ECAST da’Producer. I am a professional music producer, singer/songwriter, composer, and artist who concentrates on the Latin music genre. I was born in (Grey City) Humacao, Puerto Rico, and currently reside in California. I started my musical journey at a really young age performing the island’s national instrument “El Cuatro Puertorriqueño”. With this instrument, I discovered my passion for music and fine arts later taking me toward becoming a multi-instrumentalist learning jazz and classical guitar, bass, piano, and percussion among others. But I didn’t always stay on my creative pathway. I took the oath to serve my country by joining the US Army for a better part of my young adult life where I gain many skills that have helped me develop as a leader and as an entrepreneur.

In 2016 I joined one of the most prestigious universities for Music Production in the US called Fullsail University. I successfully graduated with honors setting the foundation for what I am currently pursuing as a professional.

Today, we own a recording studio and company called ECAST Music Group where we concentrate on building genuine relationships through music. We have supported many independent artists nationally and internationally on their musical journey by providing music and audio production services such as; mixing, mastering, midi composition, live instrumentation, arrangements, vocal comping and editing, recording, teaching & educating, and much more. We take pride in going the extra mile to provide them with a product that can be radio ready and fully distributed to their fans. Some of the artists who we’ve worked for are Manny Lugo, Jon Griffin and the Lightfigthers, Ojanii “La Promesa”, Fran Lorenz, Uzyel, Expression Publica, Sean D, BB The Producer amount others.

One of the things I am very proud of is the fact that a dream is becoming true just by putting in some effort and establishing discipline as part of my daily routine. Yes, is not always easy getting sidetracked by so many things happening in our lives but mainly by a little device called a smartphone that could easily outsmart anyone if not careful. My daily mantra is “Nothing in Life is Easy or Impossible” you just have to put in some effort.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Let us address the pink elephant in the room! Mental Health…

One of the most challenging things I have worked through in my life and now on a daily basis is my mental health. It is a battle that can be unbalancing and challenging. The music industry is full of uncertainties and it can easily become daunting. It is very helpful to communicate and share your struggles and worries with someone that supports, cares, or shares some of your same vision and goals. 2020 put a toll on the world’s health overall and for all creative minds, it was no different. I also found myself spiraling into a dark moment, and it has taken many sessions of therapy to get well but once it hits the fan it just stains the entire room. This is a process that has to be accepted within, is ok not to be ok. Talk to someone, regain focus, take time off, love yourself, and smile! You are important to someone but mostly are important to yourself. Dark moments are just that, moments, I promise you the Sun will shine again.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

I feel that the most rewarding aspect of being an artist in my book is being able to connect with other like-minded souls. Especially when you think that no one understands you and that what you are doing seems senseless there will be someone who will slide you a DM with some positive vibes and/or can relate to the stories you put into music.

I am grateful to my fans, friends, and colleagues for being kind, supportive, and most caring. I am making it through this journey thanks to you all.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linqapp.com/thisismannylugo?r=link
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Thisismannylugo/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisismannylugo
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MannyLugo
• Other: https://www.canva.com/design/DAE2tR_kGmc/95kM0uAwmVZCuphlQJs5Ug/view? utm_content=DAE2tR_kGmc&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=publishsharelink

Image Credits
Marcos Alonzo, Olga Castro.