Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Zuniga.
Chris, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Like many, I fell in love with music at a very young age. Between my mother and her oldies mixtapes and my father who loved funk, Hip-hop, and R&B, I was born to love music. My father had a small apartment in Modesto, CA with a pantry he converted into his record space. He would dub his latest purchases for friends and family as they requested. Everyone knew him for his music collection and taste. Music was embedded in my heart from day one.
Growing up in Manteca, CA as a teenager I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, but I knew two things; Music and sports. I remember always thinking about maybe having a career in sports casting but understood my introverted personality may not fit the criteria. My goal was to just finish high school and see what the future brought.
In the spring of 2005, My brother was a victim of gun violence. I was crushed, still to this day. I wouldn’t wish anyone to experience that day. I was a senior in high school at the time and I remember not wanting to finish. I eventually went back and obtained my diploma with no idea of what my next move was. The one thing I did know, I was going to be relentless on whatever that goal was.
Years later, I’m working odd jobs just to pay my car note and whatever was leftover covered social functions with friends. I eventually gained interest in becoming a DJ. I bought a little Numark controller from best buy for like $100. I watched youtube tutorials, studied and learned the basics. I remember telling my father about my new hobby. He was all for it, he even helped me upgrade my controller. We went down to Guitar Center in Modesto and bought the new Pioneer DDJ-SX. At this point our relationship was slowly mending and this was a great opportunity.
In the spring of 2013, my father unexpectedly passed away due to health issues. At this point our bond was tight and I’m again without my best friend. That loss hit different, it fueled me to do what I truly was passionate about, music.
In November of 2014, I decided to take up my aunt’s offer to move to Torrance, CA. She talked me into enrolling to The Los Angeles Recording School where I obtained my Associates in Music Production. I put my all into my newly acquired craft. Long days and nights of trying to absorb any and every information youtube offered really paid dividends.
While I was attending The Los Angeles Recording School, I met SUMWHR. He was always talked about amongst our peers for his high-quality work he showcased for school assignments. I heard his name a lot before even meeting him. Little did I know, the guy always calling me “Fly guy” and talking sports with was him! We’ve been tight since then.
Great, 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?
The music industry is like a sacred society so that itself is the biggest obstacle. You just have to keep pushing. Build relationships, work harder everyday, and let the music speak for itself. I’m still waiting for my opportunity just like millions of others.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
I’m one half of O.D.E. Republic (Overnite Dreams Echo) a producer, alongside SUMWHR. I specialize in Hip-Hop and R&B music. I’m grateful to have SUMWHR as both a mentor and a friend. We are able take into consideration each other’s constructive criticism and, I think that’s what sets apart from many others. We just want to put out quality music for the world to hear.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
Doing this interview is the proudest moment. I am truly grateful for the opportunity and I am ready for whatever future endeavors this may lead to.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.Beatstars.com/zoo_will
- Phone: 2092755338
- Email: zoowillproductions@gmail.com
- Instagram: @zoowill
- Twitter: @zoo_will
Image Credit:
@SUMWHR @Planetadr @Thejaqmoon @Marcus_is_mayhem
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