Rafael Maya
Tell us about you and your work
I am an artist from the Caribbean who has dedicated most of my life to learning and sharing culture with the world. I go by different names at different moments but most know me as Rafael Maya. Father, Son, Family, Friend, Omo Awo, Musician, Composer, Producer, Choreographer, Dancer, Visual Artist. I am honored to be the Director of the Puerto Rican Bomba group, Desde Cero. I also participate in other groups that play genres spanning from Afro Caribbean music to Jazz to Hip-hop to Futurism. Recently I have been exploring electronic music and have been creating with artists from around the globe. This has pushed me to record my own solo album. I will be releasing its first single in the upcoming months. This opened a door to an amazing opportunity to start a project with musicians in Cuba. We are combining sampled sounds with ancient rhythms and modern structures. I am also in the beginning stages of recording Desde Cero’s 2nd production. I find myself immersed in various hip-hop ventures, futuristic madness, and a few other surprises. I have been exploring expression through visual art as well. I realized that one can say a lot with a wood carving, a photograph, a painting, etc. This has been a great way to expand.
What inspires you?
La juventud inspire me. They give hope for a more just and brighter future. I also get inspired by the elements.
What does community mean to you?
Community is the way to leave a broader mark on society. It creates a snowball effect, positively influencing other communities, impacting society, countries, the World. We are all one and it’s through the community where we demonstrate this. It takes a village to raise a child, a community. Community building has been the main point of a lot of my work, it’s something I will always be part of.
Favorite Film?
Waking Life is one of my favorite films.
Favorite Song?
Favorite song.. that’s impossible to pinpoint
Favorite Place?
Favorite place... Utuado