Today we’d like to introduce you to Tonio The Great.
Hi Tonio, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Growing up like many inner city kids, I faced poverty, abuse, and instability. Due to those things me and my family lived a nomadic lifestyle- moving to many different states and cities. Throughout it, all my venting was through a pen & pad. At the age of six, I began writing songs to instrumentals. Inspired by a few people that I knew, I envisioned myself being the next Lil Wayne. Due to life circumstances, I stopped doing anything music-related for a while but I always knew that music was for me. The fire inside of me was brought back when hanging with a good friend of mine after an Atlanta Hawks game. We were playing beats and free-styling – he looked at me and said, “Bro you need to take this serious, you have something special”. It was the way that he said it that made me more ready than ever. From that day forward, I’ve been beyond focused.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Life will never be smooth but it’s what you make it. I’ve always been used to adversity and never been one to shy away from it so I came into the music industry with that same mindset. Anytime I feel like things are going how I want them or doors may be opening up slower than expected, I find another route to get what I want. Consistency is key.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a music artist by the name of Tonio The Great. People attract to my music because it’s authentic and real. Every song, every line, every word, every metaphor, and everything in between touch people. Coming into the music industry, it’s a distinct sound that everyone goes for – me? I standout because I’m true to me. My proudest moment is watching my mama listen to my first tape “UNDERDAWG” and her being proud of me. My mama is a tough one to please musically so a nod from her means the world.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Consistency, persistence, network and awareness- There’s a reason that dream has you up late at night, get it! Go after everything you want and more!
One thing that I wish I would have done differently starting out is planning singles, visuals, and the tape out – Although I received a great response, I know it could have been extremely more and better.
Contact Info:
- Email: Toniothegreatmusic@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Tonio_thegreat
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/Toniothegreat11
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCX4e3u2S6sxWy9QshAZAUDA
- Other: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/tonio-the-great/1602750537
Image Credits:
Faith Freeman Brandon Carter
