Appearing alongside Mack Wilds and Method Man in VH1’s The Breaks catapulted A-F-R-O’s musical career to the next level. His breakthrough role garnered him much deserved attention and afforded him the opportunity to perform on varied stages around the world thereafter.
READ: Viva Chat: Mack Wilds Readies A New Album As He Imitates Life In ‘The Breaks’
The 18-year-old rapper, born James Gutierrez, hit the stage at Dilla Weekend in Miami to honor his hero and late producer, James “J Dilla” Yancey. “He got me through harder days than some people,” said Gutierrez to VIBE Viva. “J Dilla means the world.”
After bringing down the house at SOHO Studios in Wynwood, A-F-R-O also confirmed with us that his debut album is well underway and could be coming out as early as this year. “I want to get it done soon,” he added. “I’m in the studio for now.”
While we twiddle our thumbs in anticipation for what the gifted MC has in store, watch A-F-R-O work the stage, below. –Interview by Tony Centeno