We tapped in with Richmond’s own @abialegotti to hear more about his latest single “Never Fold” and to learn more about his musical process and inspirations. Aren’t you curious on how he got his rap name and what it means? He’s got a lot more music in store for his fans, check out the interview below to find out! (Artist Submitted)
Thizzler: Where are you from? How was your upbringing?
Abioye Alejandro Gotti: I’m from Richmond, California. My upbringing was pretty normal. I was raised by my mom who was pretty strict because she lived a rough life moving from New Orleans to San Francisco, CA. She wanted to keep me out of trouble the best way she could, but it’s like what they say “when it’s in you it’s in you”.
T: How did you begin making music?
A.A. Gotti: I began making music when I was in the California Youth Authority. We had to find ways to pass the time the best way we could. I was in lock for a riot and was so bored I started writing songs, one day the deputy walked passed and heard me and told me if I sang like that whenever it was her shift she would give me extra lunches. Shout out to her for real, I’m grateful for that moment.
T: How did you get your rap name?
A.A. Gotti: My rap name is basically all 3 of my names; Abioye is my legal name, Alejandro was the name given to me by a Puerto Rican family that I was close to, and Gotti was the name given to me by my friends from my neighborhood. Anybody who knows me knows that have 3 personalities, Abioye the Artist, Alejandro the rock star, and Gotti the go getter.
T: How would describe your musical style?
A.A. Gotti: My music style is versatile, one minute Abioye will drop something soulful, the next minute Alejandro will have you vibing to Latin music, and Gotti will turn you up with the rap. Imagine me as being a human playlist with a variety of vibes.
T: Tell me about “Never Fold”.
A.A. Gotti: “Never Fold” was created in my living room on my couch as I was reflecting on losing both of my best friends. Fontino Hardy Jr. (Tino), and Robert Castine Bridges (TC). I was just vibing to the beat when my daughter started recording me with her phone. I posted it on Instagram and got a good reaction so the next day I went and recorded it.
T: What inspired this new single?
A.A. Gotti: I wanted to put this song out to encourage anyone going through hard times, whether it’s a lost love one, or just everyday problems – to never fold, never give up just keep going. I’ve always had that mentality and I’m thankful i’m still here to see that it’s all worth fighting for.
T: How is it different than previous drops?
A.A. Gotti: My last song “Run it Up” was more of a turn up song. Whenever I’m in Gotti mode I like to rap because I can talk shit. It’s really hella fun rapping.
T: Is it part of a project? If so, can you tell me more about that?
A.A. Gotti: Yeah it’s a part of my project titled Gotti which showcases my rap skills. This project is more of an upbeat feel. I’m dropping 3 projects. Gotti the rap project, Alejandro which is a Latin trap vibe (and yes it’s in Español), and lastly my ABIOYE project which is more of a soulful harmonizing vibe.
T: What message do you want fans to walk away with after listening to “Never Fold”?
A.A. Gotti: Just to keep going. We’ve all been through so much especially in the last year. I just wanna let them know they are not alone and they can overcome anything if they just never fold.
T: What’s next?
A.A. Gotti: Look out for my song and video titled “Ghost”, which is on the Gotti project. Y’all gone rock with that I promise.
T: Is there anything else you want to say?
A.A. Gotti: Yes, tell Stunna Girl and Lan from Su’Lan to call me … yerrrr.