Meet Butch Vega | Rapper/Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Butch Vega and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Butch, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
Life is full of ups and downs for all of us. Particularly the last year has been immensely challenging in many ways. I think that in those collective obstacles though there is opportunity. A reminder of the things that truly matter. If you love what you do — if you’re truly, deeply passionate about your craft, then giving up is not a real option. When you create with material expectations, whether it is seeking validation, success or recognition, it’s easy to get derailed by disappointment. I create because I have to. Because it’s part of who I am and it’s who I will always be whether one person knows my name or a million. Music is my life, so giving up isn’t really an option. It’s important to know when you’re tired, when you need a break, when you need to regroup…but also to know that it’s just temporary and you have to get back up and keep going.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I was seven when I fell in love with hip-hop — my cousin gave me a copy of The Chronic and Doggy Style on a camping trip. I played them all weekend and every day after until the CD’s scratched. A few years later I got my first microphone and audio software for Christmas. I began recording music in my room on an old dell laptop. Though the equipment’s upgraded, I’ve been making music the same way since — I write, record, and mix everything I put out, because I am passionate about the entire process of creating something out of nothing. I was born in Colombia and raised on the northside of Gwinnett — my music toes the line between the place where I was born and the place that saw me grow into a man. It’s a fusion of melodies that represent the two places that make me who I am. I rap about life — the good times, the struggles, the ups and downs. The moments I want to remember and those I want to forget. I’ve learned that no matter the challenges I face, music is something I can always turn to. It’s what makes me feel alive and connected to people around me. The music others make helps me, and I just want to reciprocate that same energy. I want the world to know that I am imperfect, but I am genuine. And I am not afraid to share all those sides of me.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’d bring them along to my usual spots — places that art part of my everyday life. The Gian Carlo wings (extra crispy) at Tin Roof to start our day, Spanglish at Xprience on a Tuesday (we gotta eat again!), a little break and rehydration at Jeju in the Northside and back to some Colombian at Las Delicias de la Abuela (clearly, we like to eat). If they come in the right week, we have to hit Perreo404 for some underground vibes. And if we manage to make our way out before lights come up, a.pit stop for some classic hip-hop at Little Spirit. And the Waffle House all-star at 4am. On Sundays, we’d make our way down to the belt line to chill and then to Loca Luna for a little daytime eating, drinking and dancing. A pitstop at the ADP art shows to see some of Atlanta’s most talented creatives. and of course, every day starts and ends in the studio.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I wouldn’t be able to do what I do without the support of the Daydream Clique. The people you keep around you are integral to your success (or your demise if you don’t choose wisely). My crew is part of my creative process – whether we are shooting, recording, writing treatments or simply just having conversations that inspire and support our shared mission. I believe in community. And I surround myself with creatives with shared goals and good intentions. We all believe in creating, inspiring and doing something positive for our people and our community. We are artists, photographers, entrepreneurs, journalists, writers and creatives who are passionate about our work and each other’s growth and success. They know who they are.

Instagram: @butch_vega

Twitter: @butch_vega

Facebook: Butch Vega

Youtube: Butch Vega

Other: TikTok: ButchVega85 Soundcloud: ButchVega85

Image Credits
June Guz – @juneguz Esay Yohnes – @noir_realm Diego – @diegodothemost