Hairo Gonzalez, better known as Hairo G, was born and bred in the vibrant streets of Harlem, New York City. A dynamic artist at 37 years old, Hairo's journey from his childhood to his present rap career has been one of passion, resilience, and artistic growth.
Growing up as the eldest of five siblings in a bustling Harlem neighborhood, Hairo was immersed in the rich tapestry of hip-hop and urban culture. Born to a Dominican-American mother who migrated to NYC from the Dominican Republic, Hairo's upbringing was an amalgamation of his Dominican roots and the vibrant energy of Harlem's streets.
Hairo's intellectual prowess was evident from an early age. After excelling in his studies, his teacher recommended an IQ test, revealing an IQ of 142. This led him to join specialized educational programs, where his thirst for knowledge thrived. From Beacon High School to the Delta Honors Program and military service, Hairo's educational journey was marked by dedication and hard work.
After his military service, Hairo embraced various trades, becoming a skilled maintenance and construction professional. Family played a pivotal role as he became a father to five wonderful children. Balancing fatherhood, work, and studies, he moved to California to complete his education, making sure his family was cared for.
Hairo's passion for music ignited when he heard Big L's "Ebonix." Intrigued by hip-hop's sounds and style, he fell in love with the genre. His cousin, a master audio engineer, introduced him to the music industry at just 12 years old. This sparked his journey into music production, writing, and performing. Collaborating with his cousin and DJ Blesz, he honed his craft and eventually released his first solo EP, "Smoke Drink Chill... Type Shit," which garnered over 1 million streams on SoundCloud.
Hairo's dedication to music led him to formal audio engineering education, making him a proficient "pro-tools God." He released his debut studio album, "Empire State Warrior," in 2020. The album showcased his growth as an artist and featured tracks from acclaimed producers like The HeatMakerz and DJ Ron G.
Hairo's dedication bore fruit as his music amassed over 2 million streams on Spotify. His journey also led him to the High Times SoCal Cannabis Cup in 2019, where he shared the stage with giants like Ice Cube and Tory Lanez, leaving an indelible mark on his growing rap resume.
Hairo G's story is one of seizing opportunities, overcoming challenges, and unifying diverse influences. From Harlem's streets to prestigious stages, his journey continues to inspire and elevate the world of hip-hop.
We were pleased to acquire an exclusive interview with the rising artiste, Hairo G, highlighting WhatsOnRap's important function. Our entertaining talk covered an extensive variety of subjects, including his exciting coming projects. This interview is intended to interest both fans and readers, offering a deeper understanding of the talented artist's journey and creative goals.
Read The Full Interview Below:
1- How long has music been a part of your life?
Music has been a part of my life since I could remember. Professionally, since I was 12 years old.
2- If it wasn’t for music, where would you be now?
The only honest answer I can give is where ever God wants me to be, so long as it’s within His purpose.
3- In what way do you aim to make a difference?
I am a TRUE MC. I stand on being authentic with my music. I do not “cap” in my music, everything is real. I want to stay true to the essence of Hip Hop.
4- Who is your fashion icon, and why?
My fashion icon is Dapper Dan. Because, he’s Dapper Dan and he represents the Harlem culture I grew up in.
5- What’s the most trouble you’ve ever gotten into?
Sin against God. Real talk.
6- Where is your career heading?
Where God wants it to be. Amen.
7- How would you describe your style of music?
Listen to my music and see for yourself. I’ve been told many things, but I’ll let YOU decide.
8- How do you put words to paper?
Life experience.
9- If you could perform anywhere in the world where would it be ?
Madison Square Garden. The Apollo Theater. The Super Bowl Half Time Show.
10- What makes you different from the other rappers in the industry?
I’m not a rapper, I am an MC. I am Dominican. Period.
11- Who is your biggest music influences?
Big L, Big Pun, Tupac Shakur, LL Cool J, Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, 50 Cent, Eminem, Nas, Jay Z, Biggie, DJ Ron G, DJ Red Alert, Snoop Dogg, Kanye West, Will Smith, Coolio, Wu-Tang, Jada Kiss & Styles P., Fabolous, DipSet.
12- If you could collaborate with any artist who would it be and why?
Dr. Dre. Cause, it’s Dr. Dre. And Kanye West. Jay Z and Nas for sure. Ed Sheeran.
13- Do you have any kooky habits we should know about?
None.
14- Who inspires you the most?
My children.
15- How do you plan to breakthrough, and where do you think the future of music industry lies?
I plan on doing the work. Taking things one day at a time. I’m on God’s timing, not mine. The future of the music industry is going to be amazing. 50 years of Hip Hop. We ain’t going nowhere!
Music has been a part of my life since I could remember. Professionally, since I was 12 years old.
2- If it wasn’t for music, where would you be now?
The only honest answer I can give is where ever God wants me to be, so long as it’s within His purpose.
3- In what way do you aim to make a difference?
I am a TRUE MC. I stand on being authentic with my music. I do not “cap” in my music, everything is real. I want to stay true to the essence of Hip Hop.
4- Who is your fashion icon, and why?
My fashion icon is Dapper Dan. Because, he’s Dapper Dan and he represents the Harlem culture I grew up in.
5- What’s the most trouble you’ve ever gotten into?
Sin against God. Real talk.
6- Where is your career heading?
Where God wants it to be. Amen.
7- How would you describe your style of music?
Listen to my music and see for yourself. I’ve been told many things, but I’ll let YOU decide.
8- How do you put words to paper?
Life experience.
9- If you could perform anywhere in the world where would it be ?
Madison Square Garden. The Apollo Theater. The Super Bowl Half Time Show.
10- What makes you different from the other rappers in the industry?
I’m not a rapper, I am an MC. I am Dominican. Period.
11- Who is your biggest music influences?
Big L, Big Pun, Tupac Shakur, LL Cool J, Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, 50 Cent, Eminem, Nas, Jay Z, Biggie, DJ Ron G, DJ Red Alert, Snoop Dogg, Kanye West, Will Smith, Coolio, Wu-Tang, Jada Kiss & Styles P., Fabolous, DipSet.
12- If you could collaborate with any artist who would it be and why?
Dr. Dre. Cause, it’s Dr. Dre. And Kanye West. Jay Z and Nas for sure. Ed Sheeran.
13- Do you have any kooky habits we should know about?
None.
14- Who inspires you the most?
My children.
15- How do you plan to breakthrough, and where do you think the future of music industry lies?
I plan on doing the work. Taking things one day at a time. I’m on God’s timing, not mine. The future of the music industry is going to be amazing. 50 years of Hip Hop. We ain’t going nowhere!