An Inspired Chat with Block$ide$av David Ortiz of Los Angeles

Block$ide$av David Ortiz shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

David , a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
Mental Health. I think a lot of people struggle with mental health in silence because of a stigma and fear of judgement. A lot of us worry about being labeled weak, unstable and incapable. Sometimes we get pressured in a society where they reward productivity and positivity. Even saying “I’m not okay” feels like failure. People often hide and stay silent because of past experiences of being dismissed. But mainly cultural and gender expectations do play a major role in this aspect. Growing up in a Hispanic household, it wasn’t okay to express feelings or show emotions because it made you look bad as a “man”. Our parents, parents parents and so on taught us how to be very prideful. And many other cultures too, not just Hispanics.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My Name is David Jordan Ortiz. I go by the name “Block$ide$av”. I am an independent Music Artist, Singer, Songwriter, And Producer. I have being doing Music for about 5 years. I turned Violence, Gang affiliation , Pain and Struggle into my passion. I make Music for all generations and Genres if you decide to take a peak.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My parents. They showed me the meaning of responsibility and sacrifice. Through their struggles, work ethic, and persistence, I learned that nothing worthwhile comes without effort. Even when things were difficult, they kept going, and that taught me how to push through obstacles instead of running from them. From them, I learned discipline, respect, and the importance of standing on your word.
Secondly My past relationships. They shaped me emotionally. Loving people and sometimes losing them taught me patience, empathy, and self-awareness. I learned how to listen, how to care deeply, and how to show up even when it’s uncomfortable. Heartbreak taught me what I never want to be: careless, distant, or unappreciative. It pushed me to become more emotionally present and intentional with the people I love.
Together, these influences made me more grounded. They taught me that being a man isn’t about ego or dominance—it’s about consistency, effort, and compassion. It’s about working hard not just for yourself, but for the people you care about. It’s about loving with honesty and protecting peace, even when life has been chaotic.

What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering gave me depth that success alone never could. It taught me resilience, humility, empathy, and self-awareness things money, praise, or wins can’t guarantee. While success shows what I achieved, suffering showed me who I am, strengthened my character, and gave my life meaning beyond achievements.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
The public version of me isn’t the full truth it’s a role people see, not who I actually am. What’s shown on the outside is shaped by expectations, survival, and perception, but behind all that, I’m really a homebody. I like being inside, away from noise and attention, where things feel calm and real. That’s where I recharge, reflect, and feel most like myself. The real me values peace, comfort, and quiet moments far more than being seen or misunderstood by the world.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
My music legacy wasn’t built for stages or applause… it was built for the quiet corners. For the people who had nowhere to run, nowhere to hide, and no one to talk to. It was made in late nights and heavy moments, when the world felt too loud and the pain had no name.
For those who felt unseen, the music listened. For those carrying too much, it made the weight feel lighter. That’s how the legacy was built—not by fame, but by giving comfort, calm, and connection to people who needed somewhere safe to land.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://bio.site/Blocksidesav
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blocksidesav?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Other: Apple Music https://music.apple.com/us/artist/block%24ide%24av/1574089568

  Spotify :

  https://open.spotify.com/artist/5ofvx4aNRQSvatIaPMLVGK?si=Y2HADWJrS7OEHcYaSkjJoQ

Image Credits
Burnside Studios
@BurnsideStudiosLA
Block$ide$av
@Blocksidesav
Saul Varo
@Teczzz_