Adassa
Reggaeton artist Adassa owes her multinational appeal in no small part to her upbringing. She was born in Miami, FL, to Colombian parents, but relocated shortly thereafter to St. Croix, Virgin Islands.
She was exposed from a young age to a wide array of musical styles and languages. Adassa began singing regularly in church, apprenticed by her mother, which whet her appetite for vocal training.
She soon pursued instruction in music theory and opera while simultaneously exploring interest in writing, publishing her poetry as early as age ten. She was offered a number of familial inroads to the music industry, including recording gospel records alongside her mother and joining groups organized by her promoter/producer brother.
Opportunity soon presented itself in Monterrey, Mexico, in professional show bands, which offered invaluable performance/showmanship training and practice. Soon thereafter, Adassa released her debut solo record, the self-produced Down South. Sold out of backpacks and car trunks, the record created enough buzz to gain the notice of underground label Hoodlum Records, with whom she released a self-titled follow-up project. Local radio and word-of-mouth success paved the road for the Miami-produced On the Floor, her first album to gain national distribution. Touring alongside big-name reggaeton artists soon followed.
Performing on the same bill with Daddy Yankee, Ivy Queen, Don Omar, and others brought Adassa to the nation's attention. Kamasutra, released in 2005 by Universal Latino, generated the hit song "De Tra," and introduced Adassa as a major player in the reggaeton genre.
She was exposed from a young age to a wide array of musical styles and languages. Adassa began singing regularly in church, apprenticed by her mother, which whet her appetite for vocal training.
She soon pursued instruction in music theory and opera while simultaneously exploring interest in writing, publishing her poetry as early as age ten. She was offered a number of familial inroads to the music industry, including recording gospel records alongside her mother and joining groups organized by her promoter/producer brother.
Opportunity soon presented itself in Monterrey, Mexico, in professional show bands, which offered invaluable performance/showmanship training and practice. Soon thereafter, Adassa released her debut solo record, the self-produced Down South. Sold out of backpacks and car trunks, the record created enough buzz to gain the notice of underground label Hoodlum Records, with whom she released a self-titled follow-up project. Local radio and word-of-mouth success paved the road for the Miami-produced On the Floor, her first album to gain national distribution. Touring alongside big-name reggaeton artists soon followed.
Performing on the same bill with Daddy Yankee, Ivy Queen, Don Omar, and others brought Adassa to the nation's attention. Kamasutra, released in 2005 by Universal Latino, generated the hit song "De Tra," and introduced Adassa as a major player in the reggaeton genre.
Don Candiani
Don Candiani Productions is a bilingual music production company established in 1998 owned by Gabriel Candiani. He was BMI songwriter of the year 2 years in a row and has produced music for NBC, The Sopranos, Monday Night Football, The Young and The Restless and many other movie and television shows and trailers. He has also produced for Sony, Universal, and Warner. Gabriel has worked for the following Artists: Ciara, Missy Elliott, Tarkan, Lucas Prata, Adassa, Cristian Castro, Juanes, Luis Fonsi, and Paulina Rubio among others
Oba Frank Lords
OBA Frank Lords - born Francisco Martin in Havana, Cuba came to the U.S.A. at age 5. He was introduced to percussion at the age of 10 by an old Santero that lived in his neighborhood in little Havana. People in the community called the old Santero "El Congo" because he could barely speak Spanish and English, (he spoke in African dialect). "El Congo" was very old and full of knowledge about religion and African rhythms as a result of his parents being slaves brought from Africa. OBA was mesmerized by El Congo’s collection of drums and would come over daily to visit him. One day, the man gave him his first taste of the percussion drum (which was basically a piece of wood). Since then, OBA has not stopped. OBA believes "El Congo's" spirit lives within him and performs through him when he plays. At the age of 10, OBA met his lifetime idol Desi Arnaz (Ricky Ricardo) at a theater in Little Havana (Miami, FL), during a tribute to Cuba's greatest singers. Being introduced to Desi was one of the highlights of the day. His godfather (who knew the choreographer of the show) told Desi that the young OBA imitated him singing his trademark song, "Babalu" so Desi asked him to join him on stage. That night, the seed and great passion for performing in front of an audience had been planted.
OBA played with many garage bands throughout his adolescent years and worked at Miami's iconic T.K. Records for Henry Stone. He learned all of the facets of running a recording studio in addition to witnessing the sessions of such greats as K.C. & The Sunshine Band, Jimmy BoHorne, Celi Bee, Betty Wright and many more. These experiences fueled OBA'S desire to record and produce. One day due to an accident, a session percussionist suffered an injury. The producer at the studio asked OBA if he would play percussion on a new track they were recording. OBA said yes and his performance on the #1 Disco hit, "Miami Heat Wave" helped shape his signature sound.
In 1980, OBA was initiated into the African religion of Santeria (Lucumi Religion) and as he advanced within the religion, he was inducted as a drummer (Batalero) and later as a singer (Akpwon), of the African Yoruba dialect. This further enhanced OBA's musical knowledge as he was now learning and using techniques that were as old as time itself; handed down from generation to generation.
In the mid 80's, OBA had his first commercial success with his group Secret Society with hits such as "Why Did U Runaway" and "Find Yourself”. However, it was the #1 Billboard smash, "We Belong Together" that brought OBA's name to the forefront of Dance music where he was heralded among one of the creators of the Miami Freestyle scene.
In 1996 after Secret Society disbanded, OBA became part of the group Dogma and the Afro-Cuban Rhythms, generating Billboard Dance Chart hits, "Mas Suave" and "Ritmo Cubano, Sabor Africano". Moving on to bring to fruition his lifelong dream of blending Afro-Cuban traditional music with Dance music, Oba formed LatinXpress. Their first single, "Descarga" (which he co-wrote and co-produced with producer/re-mixer, Giuseppe D) hit the top of the Billboard Dance Chart, and launched LatinXpress onto the scene. Teaming up with Albert "Adam" Camara (a high profile producer/re-mixer) they created the moniker, "ObAdam". Together they wrote and produced LatinXpress’ biggest hit (and future club anthem), "Chango" featuring the legendary Gina Martin on vocals. ObAdam continued to produce, perform and re-mix for musical icons such as India, Gloria Estefan, Jon Secada, Paulina Rubio, Juanes, Ricky Martin and a plethora of underground and pop artists. ObAdam became the leading name to be called upon when a label needed spicy Latin rhythms infused with fierce dance vibes for clubs all over the world.
OBA then joined forces with renowned DJ/Producer/Re-mixers, MURK (Oscar G and Ralph Falcon) to create the revolutionary track, "Dark Beat" (Addicted to Drums). This took the music world by storm. Reaching the #1 spot on Billboard's Club Play Chart, “Dark Beat” also received heavy rotation on top stations (WKTU/NY, Power 96/Miami, B96/Chicago, to name a few) in the major US and European markets. “Dark Beat” also received accolades at the Dance Star Awards and Winter Music Conference. Their second single, "Alright" also went to the #1 spot on the Billboard Club Play Chart. These hits fueled multiple tours around the United States and abroad. A huge following of devoted fans in clubs chanted the lyrics during OBA’s performances turned a typical track show into a concert frenzy like environment. The combination of native costuming, tribal make-up and fire-breathing provided intense visuals for the unique backdrop of top quality music and live percussion.
In 2002, OBA felt the need to take a hiatus from the music scene for some much needed spiritual time. He disconnected completely and opened a religious temple/store where he treated people with both spiritual needs and problems. This sabbatical continued for 9 years, but the fire for music still burned inside of him. In 2010, OBA returned with "Rumble" - a “Dark Beat” -esque type of song which catapulted into Billboard’s top 20 Club Song Chart.
OBA continues writing, producing, performing and remixing. Recent artists include: top-selling artists Kristine W and Sizzla, Billboard Club Song Chart favorites Ceevox, Pepper Mashay, Jenevieve X and Felicia along with hot new upcoming artists in various genres such as Soulistk, The Medicine Box and Katiahshe. Oba still collaborates with high-profile DJ’s such as Oscar G and Tracy Young in addition to a roster of internationally known talent. Furthermore, performing for the masses has also come back into the forefront with recent shows at Club Space, major festivals and events. OBA says, "When I come to your town don't miss it, you will be in for a wild ride!”
OBA played with many garage bands throughout his adolescent years and worked at Miami's iconic T.K. Records for Henry Stone. He learned all of the facets of running a recording studio in addition to witnessing the sessions of such greats as K.C. & The Sunshine Band, Jimmy BoHorne, Celi Bee, Betty Wright and many more. These experiences fueled OBA'S desire to record and produce. One day due to an accident, a session percussionist suffered an injury. The producer at the studio asked OBA if he would play percussion on a new track they were recording. OBA said yes and his performance on the #1 Disco hit, "Miami Heat Wave" helped shape his signature sound.
In 1980, OBA was initiated into the African religion of Santeria (Lucumi Religion) and as he advanced within the religion, he was inducted as a drummer (Batalero) and later as a singer (Akpwon), of the African Yoruba dialect. This further enhanced OBA's musical knowledge as he was now learning and using techniques that were as old as time itself; handed down from generation to generation.
In the mid 80's, OBA had his first commercial success with his group Secret Society with hits such as "Why Did U Runaway" and "Find Yourself”. However, it was the #1 Billboard smash, "We Belong Together" that brought OBA's name to the forefront of Dance music where he was heralded among one of the creators of the Miami Freestyle scene.
In 1996 after Secret Society disbanded, OBA became part of the group Dogma and the Afro-Cuban Rhythms, generating Billboard Dance Chart hits, "Mas Suave" and "Ritmo Cubano, Sabor Africano". Moving on to bring to fruition his lifelong dream of blending Afro-Cuban traditional music with Dance music, Oba formed LatinXpress. Their first single, "Descarga" (which he co-wrote and co-produced with producer/re-mixer, Giuseppe D) hit the top of the Billboard Dance Chart, and launched LatinXpress onto the scene. Teaming up with Albert "Adam" Camara (a high profile producer/re-mixer) they created the moniker, "ObAdam". Together they wrote and produced LatinXpress’ biggest hit (and future club anthem), "Chango" featuring the legendary Gina Martin on vocals. ObAdam continued to produce, perform and re-mix for musical icons such as India, Gloria Estefan, Jon Secada, Paulina Rubio, Juanes, Ricky Martin and a plethora of underground and pop artists. ObAdam became the leading name to be called upon when a label needed spicy Latin rhythms infused with fierce dance vibes for clubs all over the world.
OBA then joined forces with renowned DJ/Producer/Re-mixers, MURK (Oscar G and Ralph Falcon) to create the revolutionary track, "Dark Beat" (Addicted to Drums). This took the music world by storm. Reaching the #1 spot on Billboard's Club Play Chart, “Dark Beat” also received heavy rotation on top stations (WKTU/NY, Power 96/Miami, B96/Chicago, to name a few) in the major US and European markets. “Dark Beat” also received accolades at the Dance Star Awards and Winter Music Conference. Their second single, "Alright" also went to the #1 spot on the Billboard Club Play Chart. These hits fueled multiple tours around the United States and abroad. A huge following of devoted fans in clubs chanted the lyrics during OBA’s performances turned a typical track show into a concert frenzy like environment. The combination of native costuming, tribal make-up and fire-breathing provided intense visuals for the unique backdrop of top quality music and live percussion.
In 2002, OBA felt the need to take a hiatus from the music scene for some much needed spiritual time. He disconnected completely and opened a religious temple/store where he treated people with both spiritual needs and problems. This sabbatical continued for 9 years, but the fire for music still burned inside of him. In 2010, OBA returned with "Rumble" - a “Dark Beat” -esque type of song which catapulted into Billboard’s top 20 Club Song Chart.
OBA continues writing, producing, performing and remixing. Recent artists include: top-selling artists Kristine W and Sizzla, Billboard Club Song Chart favorites Ceevox, Pepper Mashay, Jenevieve X and Felicia along with hot new upcoming artists in various genres such as Soulistk, The Medicine Box and Katiahshe. Oba still collaborates with high-profile DJ’s such as Oscar G and Tracy Young in addition to a roster of internationally known talent. Furthermore, performing for the masses has also come back into the forefront with recent shows at Club Space, major festivals and events. OBA says, "When I come to your town don't miss it, you will be in for a wild ride!”
Giuseppe D.
Giuseppe Di Caccamo, Jr. (pka Giuseppe D. aka Pepe) has developed into a talented and well-respected producer—but his path in the record industry has truly been an evolution. Since the late 1980’s, Giuseppe D. has acquired various studio training and experience in addition to the development of his musical knowledge and natural talents which all have contributed to him perfecting his craft.
Although “Pepe” was born in Weehawken, NJ of Italian/Colombian descent, he spent his teen years living in Miami, FL. During that period, he developed relationships with producers like Lewis Martineé (Exposé), Ish (Foxy, Company B), and Tolga Katas (Stevie B and Linear). It was through these relationships in which Pepe developed his passion for music and his interest in studio production. In fact, it was his friendship and collaboration with Katas which would lead to the release of his very first record, “One Love” by Tony Marino (Futura).
In 1991, Pepe moved back to New Jersey to further pursue his career by enrolling at the Center for the Media Arts to fine tune his musical and technical knowledge. It was during this period that he began to explore doing some of his own production work. His production of “I Could Be This…” by Androgeny feat. Michael M. (Strictly Rhythm) became a major house hit in the US and a pop hit in the UK and abroad.
Soon after the Androgeny hit, Giuseppe followed that up with his Billboard Chart-topper “Descarga!” by LatinXpress (RAM/Popular) in 1993, which caught the attention of legendary producer Tony Moran. Tony was so impressed with his work, he hired Pepe as an in-house producer and programmer. While working with Moran, Pepe continued to develop and perfect his skills. As he mentored with Moran, he had the pleasure of working on some major artist releases including The Real McCoy, Jon Secada, Cyndi Lauper, Luther Vandross, Gloria Estefan and Celine Dion.
After his tenure with Moran, Pepe began to explore new territories—He branched out on his own as a remixer/producer and formed new collaborative partnerships with such legendary producers as Jonathan Peters and Soul Solution. Pepe worked on a series of chart-topping singles such as “Dark Beat” by Oscar G. & Ralph Falcon (Twisted), “Give It Up” by Kevin Aviance (Emerge), “They-Say Vision” by Res (MCA), which continued to build up his name as a force to contend in the dance arena. He also continued perfecting his talent for remixes in the Latin market, by working with such top Latin artists as Juanes, Luis Fonsi, the late Celia Cruz and Elvis Crespo. It was with Crespo, that Giuseppe would be scoring one of the biggest hits of his career with the worldwide hit “Suavamente” (Sony Discos).
Giuseppe’s eye for talent was validated at the beginning of the millenium when he was asked to join the team at Robbins Entertainment as an A&R rep in January of 2000. During his over ten-year employ at Robbins, Pepe was responsible for grooming and working with such acts as Cascada, D.H.T., and Reina, where he often did production work with the acts. While working with Robbins, Pepe decided he would form his own company, Trina Enterprises LLC, which would house both Hothead Recordings and Monitor Sound Recordings, providing him with outlets for showcasing and releasing some of his own material and productions.
As his reputation for quality production work continued to solidify, in early 2004, he was asked by Koch Records label executive, Dee Sonaram (whom he’d met during his initial term at Robbins), to work with “American Idol” Season Three castoff, William Hung. Although Hung seemed an “unlikely” artist for Pepe to collaborate with, he saw it as another challenge on the ladder of his developing career. The first album, Inspiration, was released in April 2004, with Hung’s continued popularity and quite a bit of press attention, the album debuted and peaked at #34 on Billboard’s Top 200 Album Chart and reached #1 on Billboard’s Top Independent Album chart. The album has scanned nearly 300,000 units to date, and led to another production opportunity to work on Hung’s holiday album later that year. Hung for the Holidays followed in October 2004, with third album, Miracle, to follow in July 2005.
More recently, Pepe has done remix and production work for a host of female divas, one of them being, Whitney Houston. He was asked to remix the title track of her #1 multi-platinum worldwide charting album, “I Look to You”. During the promotion of the track, the record label unfortunately shifted focus to a new cut, and preempted it from achieving the heights of success that it could have achieved. Never discouraged, Pepe met another exciting female recording artist who would once again broaden his focus as well as his many talents.
Although “Pepe” was born in Weehawken, NJ of Italian/Colombian descent, he spent his teen years living in Miami, FL. During that period, he developed relationships with producers like Lewis Martineé (Exposé), Ish (Foxy, Company B), and Tolga Katas (Stevie B and Linear). It was through these relationships in which Pepe developed his passion for music and his interest in studio production. In fact, it was his friendship and collaboration with Katas which would lead to the release of his very first record, “One Love” by Tony Marino (Futura).
In 1991, Pepe moved back to New Jersey to further pursue his career by enrolling at the Center for the Media Arts to fine tune his musical and technical knowledge. It was during this period that he began to explore doing some of his own production work. His production of “I Could Be This…” by Androgeny feat. Michael M. (Strictly Rhythm) became a major house hit in the US and a pop hit in the UK and abroad.
Soon after the Androgeny hit, Giuseppe followed that up with his Billboard Chart-topper “Descarga!” by LatinXpress (RAM/Popular) in 1993, which caught the attention of legendary producer Tony Moran. Tony was so impressed with his work, he hired Pepe as an in-house producer and programmer. While working with Moran, Pepe continued to develop and perfect his skills. As he mentored with Moran, he had the pleasure of working on some major artist releases including The Real McCoy, Jon Secada, Cyndi Lauper, Luther Vandross, Gloria Estefan and Celine Dion.
After his tenure with Moran, Pepe began to explore new territories—He branched out on his own as a remixer/producer and formed new collaborative partnerships with such legendary producers as Jonathan Peters and Soul Solution. Pepe worked on a series of chart-topping singles such as “Dark Beat” by Oscar G. & Ralph Falcon (Twisted), “Give It Up” by Kevin Aviance (Emerge), “They-Say Vision” by Res (MCA), which continued to build up his name as a force to contend in the dance arena. He also continued perfecting his talent for remixes in the Latin market, by working with such top Latin artists as Juanes, Luis Fonsi, the late Celia Cruz and Elvis Crespo. It was with Crespo, that Giuseppe would be scoring one of the biggest hits of his career with the worldwide hit “Suavamente” (Sony Discos).
Giuseppe’s eye for talent was validated at the beginning of the millenium when he was asked to join the team at Robbins Entertainment as an A&R rep in January of 2000. During his over ten-year employ at Robbins, Pepe was responsible for grooming and working with such acts as Cascada, D.H.T., and Reina, where he often did production work with the acts. While working with Robbins, Pepe decided he would form his own company, Trina Enterprises LLC, which would house both Hothead Recordings and Monitor Sound Recordings, providing him with outlets for showcasing and releasing some of his own material and productions.
As his reputation for quality production work continued to solidify, in early 2004, he was asked by Koch Records label executive, Dee Sonaram (whom he’d met during his initial term at Robbins), to work with “American Idol” Season Three castoff, William Hung. Although Hung seemed an “unlikely” artist for Pepe to collaborate with, he saw it as another challenge on the ladder of his developing career. The first album, Inspiration, was released in April 2004, with Hung’s continued popularity and quite a bit of press attention, the album debuted and peaked at #34 on Billboard’s Top 200 Album Chart and reached #1 on Billboard’s Top Independent Album chart. The album has scanned nearly 300,000 units to date, and led to another production opportunity to work on Hung’s holiday album later that year. Hung for the Holidays followed in October 2004, with third album, Miracle, to follow in July 2005.
More recently, Pepe has done remix and production work for a host of female divas, one of them being, Whitney Houston. He was asked to remix the title track of her #1 multi-platinum worldwide charting album, “I Look to You”. During the promotion of the track, the record label unfortunately shifted focus to a new cut, and preempted it from achieving the heights of success that it could have achieved. Never discouraged, Pepe met another exciting female recording artist who would once again broaden his focus as well as his many talents.
Riddler
An enigma in the music game can best describe DJ Riddler. Since bursting onto the scene in 2000, The Riddler has worked in all facets of the music industry as an Artist, Producer, Major and Independent Record Label Executive, Entrepreneur, Radio DJ, and of course Club DJ. He continues to perfect his craft and evolve in an industry where you only have 15 minutes of fame. The Riddler proves he still got a lot of time left on the clock.
Prior to becoming The Riddler, Rich Pangilinan’s roots go back to where he was born in Chicago, IL. He started playing piano at the age of five and continued his musical journey as an All-State Trumpet player in High School. However, in 1986 he discovered House Music listening to the radio in Chicago. “I would record Bad Boy Bill’s mixes on WBMX and try to be just like him.” Not long after, he would follow in the footsteps of his idol by DJing at the hottest clubs and Live on the Radio.
Coming to New York City in 1996, DJ Rich as he was known then, worked for Tommy Boy Records and had a radio mix show on the World Famous Z100. During this time, he learned about the music industry, started producing in the studio, and continued to DJ at the big clubs around New York. His big break came in 2000 when he moved to the legendary Dance station 103.5 KTU and The Riddler was born.
Riddler has released over 19 Commercial Compilations selling over a million RIAA certified copies with SHR, Tommy Boy Records, Ministry of Sound USA/MCA, J Records, and Ultra Records. He also won awards in 2001, 2003, 2005 at the Winter Music Conference IDMA awards for Best Radio Mixshow DJ and Best CD Compilation.
The Riddler has become an accomplished Producer and Remixer over the years. “Growing up and DJing around the early 90′s Techno scene, I still like to incorporate the early electro and house vocals in my production today.” That was evident as an artist with the group MYNT in 2005 signed to Ultra Records with their hit single “How Did You Know” featuring Kim Sozzi.
One thing he learned being at the Major record labels was the importance of staying relevant and fresh with new sounds. He has collaborated with several up and coming producers as well as established ones. Most recently, Riddler has done several projects with American DJ Vice and Australian DJ/Producer Tom Piper and has worked with artists like Pitbull, Britney Spears, The Script, Hot Chelle Rae, Drake, and more. His next Solo EP is set for release in early 2012 on Soltrenz/Strictly Rhythm.
DJ Riddler continues to spread his love of music on Terrestrial Radio and Satellite Radio. He continues his daily and weekly radio shows on Z100-New York, 103.5-KTU, Hot 95.7-Houston, and on SiriusXM BPM. As a result, he still manages to win awards including Best Radio Mixshow DJ in 2010 and 2011 DJ Times Expo-Atlantic City. Also, his Adrenaline show on SiriusXM BPM was nominated for the 9th time along with Armin Van Buuren, Markus Schulz, Above & Beyond, Pete Tong, Tiesto & Dennis Ruyer in 2011.
Whether its performing at Festivals like the Sundance Film Festival-Park City, Utah or Winter Music Conference-Miami, FL or clubs like Webster Hall-New York City to Republiq-Manila, Philippines, The Riddler continues to have an extensive touring schedule. Being “all over the place” musically and professionally lives up to The Riddler name and that suits him just fine.
Prior to becoming The Riddler, Rich Pangilinan’s roots go back to where he was born in Chicago, IL. He started playing piano at the age of five and continued his musical journey as an All-State Trumpet player in High School. However, in 1986 he discovered House Music listening to the radio in Chicago. “I would record Bad Boy Bill’s mixes on WBMX and try to be just like him.” Not long after, he would follow in the footsteps of his idol by DJing at the hottest clubs and Live on the Radio.
Coming to New York City in 1996, DJ Rich as he was known then, worked for Tommy Boy Records and had a radio mix show on the World Famous Z100. During this time, he learned about the music industry, started producing in the studio, and continued to DJ at the big clubs around New York. His big break came in 2000 when he moved to the legendary Dance station 103.5 KTU and The Riddler was born.
Riddler has released over 19 Commercial Compilations selling over a million RIAA certified copies with SHR, Tommy Boy Records, Ministry of Sound USA/MCA, J Records, and Ultra Records. He also won awards in 2001, 2003, 2005 at the Winter Music Conference IDMA awards for Best Radio Mixshow DJ and Best CD Compilation.
The Riddler has become an accomplished Producer and Remixer over the years. “Growing up and DJing around the early 90′s Techno scene, I still like to incorporate the early electro and house vocals in my production today.” That was evident as an artist with the group MYNT in 2005 signed to Ultra Records with their hit single “How Did You Know” featuring Kim Sozzi.
One thing he learned being at the Major record labels was the importance of staying relevant and fresh with new sounds. He has collaborated with several up and coming producers as well as established ones. Most recently, Riddler has done several projects with American DJ Vice and Australian DJ/Producer Tom Piper and has worked with artists like Pitbull, Britney Spears, The Script, Hot Chelle Rae, Drake, and more. His next Solo EP is set for release in early 2012 on Soltrenz/Strictly Rhythm.
DJ Riddler continues to spread his love of music on Terrestrial Radio and Satellite Radio. He continues his daily and weekly radio shows on Z100-New York, 103.5-KTU, Hot 95.7-Houston, and on SiriusXM BPM. As a result, he still manages to win awards including Best Radio Mixshow DJ in 2010 and 2011 DJ Times Expo-Atlantic City. Also, his Adrenaline show on SiriusXM BPM was nominated for the 9th time along with Armin Van Buuren, Markus Schulz, Above & Beyond, Pete Tong, Tiesto & Dennis Ruyer in 2011.
Whether its performing at Festivals like the Sundance Film Festival-Park City, Utah or Winter Music Conference-Miami, FL or clubs like Webster Hall-New York City to Republiq-Manila, Philippines, The Riddler continues to have an extensive touring schedule. Being “all over the place” musically and professionally lives up to The Riddler name and that suits him just fine.
Mike Licata Jr.
Mike Licata was born and raised in Bronx, NY. As a DJ, he started spinning music at the early age of 13. By the age of 17, Licata began producing and learning music theory on a Steinway Grand Piano. It was then that his teacher discovered his gift of synesthesia. Using his talent, producing and mixing became a natural instinct landing him a job as an in-house music producer for Malaco Records / New Muzic, Inc. Licata went on to work with internationally acclaimed DJ Grand Wizard Theodore, producing multiple tracks for his highly anticipated album. Forming a team with Dom Tufaro, David Bionic and Vic Latino (Tune~Adiks), Mike has produced and remixed tracks featuring Flo Rida, Snoop Dogg, Sean Kingston, Vic Latino “Conga” and Lucas Prata “Done With The Fight” to name a few. Today when Mike Licata is not in the studio, he tours the world as a DJ.
Lucas Prata
Before there was Usher “DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love), Swedish House Mafia featuring John Martin “Don’t You Worry Child” and David Guetta featuring Chris Brown “Getting Over You”, there was Lucas Prata (www.lucasprata.com) “And She Said…”. “And She Said…” was one of the top EDM records worldwide in 2005 with a combined radio listening audience of One Hundred Twenty Eight Million in the United States alone. The song was featured in several TV Shows, Movies, Video Games and also was part of a major advertising campaign with Coca-Cola and the Olympics which granted Prata with his very own Special Edition Coca-Cola Bottle.
Now, the original EDM Bad Boy of Dance is back. After taking a hiatus from recording and performing in 2009 to concentrate on his own record label Yo Pal! Entertainment and now Popnotch Music, he was also songwriting and promoting records for other artists with his newly formed promotions company Prata Promotions. Prata Promotions has worked various international records to US radio mix shows and is in full operation today.
In February 2012, Prata started testing the waters and teamed up with Legendary Producer/Remixer Lenny B. to soft release “First Night of My Life” which unexpectedly became a huge club anthem and grew to receive airplay on over twenty seven CHR/Top 40 radio stations in the US. The record was also featured on NBC’s hit TV show “America’s Got Talent”.
2013, brings the release of Prata “Done With The Fight” a new single which focuses on the struggles that Prata has endured in personal relationships. “It’s my curtain call to all the negative relationships I have experienced in my life. Both personal and business, I’m looking ahead at life with positive energy and I want to use that energy with all the people that have and always will be around me in my life. 2013, is coming with a lot of new surprises. I’m back Baby! I’m Back” says Prata.
One of the surprises is the re-affiliation with his ex-manager/agent Ruben Martinez Chairman/CEO of Nene Musik Talent Agency, Llc (www.nenemusik.com) who was co-responsible and had major influence in many of Prata’s early success stories including A&R, Collaborations, TV/Films and Promotions that clearly separated Lucas from his peers in the industry. “Lucas and I mutually agreed on a hiatus in 2009 but we always kept in touch. I’m glad to have been silently around for his new triumphs as well as his personal failures. I consider him my son and I’m glad he’s on the saddle again to once again entertain his fans from across the globe.” Says Ruben Martinez.
“Done With The Fight” was written by International Producer/Remixer Giuseppe Di Caccamo Jr. and Lucas Prata and produced by the European Remix team Full Throttle. It features remixes from Arenna, Dave Rose, Bruno Robles, Sneaky Hybrid, Tune~Adiks Vic Latino vs DMS, Kraken Prj, and Tune~Adiks Vic Latino vs David Bionic. The single has already been leaked to international DJ’s worldwide and will begin working CHR/Pop radio first quarter 2013 along with a music video and promotional radio tour to support the record. Watch out world, the original EDM “The Bad Boy of Dance” is back!
Now, the original EDM Bad Boy of Dance is back. After taking a hiatus from recording and performing in 2009 to concentrate on his own record label Yo Pal! Entertainment and now Popnotch Music, he was also songwriting and promoting records for other artists with his newly formed promotions company Prata Promotions. Prata Promotions has worked various international records to US radio mix shows and is in full operation today.
In February 2012, Prata started testing the waters and teamed up with Legendary Producer/Remixer Lenny B. to soft release “First Night of My Life” which unexpectedly became a huge club anthem and grew to receive airplay on over twenty seven CHR/Top 40 radio stations in the US. The record was also featured on NBC’s hit TV show “America’s Got Talent”.
2013, brings the release of Prata “Done With The Fight” a new single which focuses on the struggles that Prata has endured in personal relationships. “It’s my curtain call to all the negative relationships I have experienced in my life. Both personal and business, I’m looking ahead at life with positive energy and I want to use that energy with all the people that have and always will be around me in my life. 2013, is coming with a lot of new surprises. I’m back Baby! I’m Back” says Prata.
One of the surprises is the re-affiliation with his ex-manager/agent Ruben Martinez Chairman/CEO of Nene Musik Talent Agency, Llc (www.nenemusik.com) who was co-responsible and had major influence in many of Prata’s early success stories including A&R, Collaborations, TV/Films and Promotions that clearly separated Lucas from his peers in the industry. “Lucas and I mutually agreed on a hiatus in 2009 but we always kept in touch. I’m glad to have been silently around for his new triumphs as well as his personal failures. I consider him my son and I’m glad he’s on the saddle again to once again entertain his fans from across the globe.” Says Ruben Martinez.
“Done With The Fight” was written by International Producer/Remixer Giuseppe Di Caccamo Jr. and Lucas Prata and produced by the European Remix team Full Throttle. It features remixes from Arenna, Dave Rose, Bruno Robles, Sneaky Hybrid, Tune~Adiks Vic Latino vs DMS, Kraken Prj, and Tune~Adiks Vic Latino vs David Bionic. The single has already been leaked to international DJ’s worldwide and will begin working CHR/Pop radio first quarter 2013 along with a music video and promotional radio tour to support the record. Watch out world, the original EDM “The Bad Boy of Dance” is back!
Razor & Guido
Razor N' Guido are a Long Island-based production duo who got their jump into the New York house scene with the help of DJs like Junior Vasquez. They hit the mainstream with a remix of Robert Miles' hit "Fable" and Notorious B.I.G.'s "Mo' Money, Mo' Problems." Their first full-length album, Dance Floor, was released in mid-2000 on Groovilicious, a spinoff of the popular house label Strictly Rhythm.
Razor (Peter Ozback) and Guido Osorio were friends long before they started collaborating with music. At the time the two met, Ozback was involved in a band that dabbled in rap and had hired him for his knowledge of hip-hop. On the side, he was also doing club remixes, learning his way around the studio. Though Osorio felt he wasn't ready to release any of his productions, the two recorded "Good Time" for Empire State (Eightball). Ozback and Osorio made the partnership solid when Ozback received a spec mix from Johnny Vicious, who they knew from popular New York MTV DJ Skribble. Soon after, through other connections, the two were offered a lot of assignments, including the remixing of Robert Miles' anthem "Fable." The two also started recording under the name Razor N' GO, which many people confused as one person or a different project altogether, though they were just Osorio's initials. Razor N' Guido's career also received a lot of help from remix guru and DJ Junior Vasquez, who plays their tracks at gigs around the world. In 2000 the big house label Strictly Rhythm picked the two up for their offshoot label Groovilicious. The album Dance Floor was released in 2000 and included in its track listing Razor N' Guido's first three releases, "Men Beat Their Men," "Do It Again," and "Don't Look Behind You."
Razor (Peter Ozback) and Guido Osorio were friends long before they started collaborating with music. At the time the two met, Ozback was involved in a band that dabbled in rap and had hired him for his knowledge of hip-hop. On the side, he was also doing club remixes, learning his way around the studio. Though Osorio felt he wasn't ready to release any of his productions, the two recorded "Good Time" for Empire State (Eightball). Ozback and Osorio made the partnership solid when Ozback received a spec mix from Johnny Vicious, who they knew from popular New York MTV DJ Skribble. Soon after, through other connections, the two were offered a lot of assignments, including the remixing of Robert Miles' anthem "Fable." The two also started recording under the name Razor N' GO, which many people confused as one person or a different project altogether, though they were just Osorio's initials. Razor N' Guido's career also received a lot of help from remix guru and DJ Junior Vasquez, who plays their tracks at gigs around the world. In 2000 the big house label Strictly Rhythm picked the two up for their offshoot label Groovilicious. The album Dance Floor was released in 2000 and included in its track listing Razor N' Guido's first three releases, "Men Beat Their Men," "Do It Again," and "Don't Look Behind You."