Montreal based Salvadoran hip-hop artists Tony Dez and Chellz have been through a lot. Their family’s journey to the Great North inspires them to write deep and personal music that speaks to the soul of the Salvadoran Diaspora. Their work recognizes the trauma and strength of our community and celebrates our heritage with Latin-infused hip-hop.

Tony Dez and his family fled the Salvadoran Civil War as refugees, an experience that forms a powerful motif in his music. His independent full-length album, “El Viaje: Alma Ambulante,” released in 2021, serves as a testament to his unique vision and artistic expression.

Chele Chellz, also a Salvadoran, is the front man of Montreal-based Latin Rap group Sonido Pesao. His symbolic and poetic lyrics in his album “El Paseo Del Alma,” released in 2022, provide insight into the mind of the artist.

They join forces in “Lumbre (Pa Los Santos).” The seamless fusion of Latin rhythm, urban energy, and uplifting lyrics in this single set dance floors on fire this summer.

• From LA to El Salvador to Montreal
• We had to run from our homes
• You don’t understand the extent of violence when you’re a kid
• The trauma of migrants
• Did the war break us or make us stronger?
• Salvadoran musical influences
• Infusing hip-hop with Salvadoran culture and sounds
• Cumbia has spread around the world
• Cypress Hill – Latin Lingo influences
• How merengue/cumbia fit with each other
• Does the infusion of Latin culture make hip-hop less popular?
• Mourning for yourself and our people
• We have the lives we have because of the risks our parents took
• Being ready for the next pandemic
• Collaborating on Lumbre (Pa Los Santos)
• Las Sicarias baby K sister rapper

Show Resources:

• Tony Dez on Instagram
• Chele Chellz on Instagram
• Tony Dez Website
• Chellz Website
• Sonido Pesao
• Grupo Algodon
• Jhosse Lora

Music:

“Lumbre (Pa Los Santos)” by Tony Dez and Chele Chellz

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