About this episode
Summary • Introduction and Background of Don Martin (0:00) ◦ Speaker 1 introduces Martin Si Fuentes, also known as Don Martin, an artist from Corpus Christi, Texas, now residing in Italy. ◦ Don Martin shares his background, mentioning his 40+ years of playing guitar and his transition to making trap music six years ago. ◦ Don Martin describes his musical journey from playing in rock and metal bands to incorporating modern urban music like rap. ◦ Speaker 1 shares his background as a professional music artist and sound engineer, highlighting his experience with various music genres. • Inspirations and Musical Journey (2:37) ◦ Don Martin discusses his inspiration from Neil Peart, the drummer from Rush, and his experience seeing Rush live in 1982. ◦ Speaker 1 shares his own experience of seeing Rush live in 1982 and the impact it had on his musical career. ◦ The conversation shifts to the influence of classic rock bands like Rush and the unique elements of their performances, such as Neil Peart's drum solos. ◦ Don Martin and Speaker 1 discuss the evolution of rock music and the incorporation of urban styles like rap. • First Hip Hop Project and Collaborations (6:51) ◦ Don Martin credits Mr. Doreen Green from D Green Films for introducing him to the rap music scene. ◦ He shares his first experience with Mexican OT in Louisiana and his subsequent collaborations with him on songs like "September the 8th," "Cowboy Killer," and "Missed Calls." ◦ Speaker 1 and Don Martin discuss the influence of Mexican OT and other Texas artists on the hip hop scene. ◦ Don Martin explains that he does not rap but plays guitar and contributes to the production of the songs. • Challenges and Personal Stories (84:38) ◦ Don Martin shares his personal story of growing up in an impoverished neighborhood in Corpus Christi and his struggles with the juvenile justice system. ◦ He discusses his time in the Texas Youth Commission and his eventual release and enlistment in the United States Navy. ◦ Speaker 1 shares his own challenging upbringing, including dealing with an abusive father and turning to gangs and drugs. ◦ Both discuss the impact of their experiences on their music and their commitment to overcoming their past. • Musical Philosophy and Future Plans (84:54) ◦ Don Martin expresses his belief in the therapeutic value of music and how it helps him cope with his mental health challenges. ◦ He discusses his preference for using live instruments in his music and the unique sound they bring compared to digital production. ◦ Don Martin shares his plans to release more music in 2026 and his goal of creating a full album. ◦ Speaker 1 and Don Martin discuss the benefits of being an independent artist and the challenges of working with major labels. • Cultural and Personal Connections (85:25) ◦ Don Martin and Speaker 1 discuss their shared experiences of growing up in impoverished neighborhoods and dealing with mental health issues. ◦ They talk about the importance of skills over medication in managing their conditions. ◦ Don Martin shares his background as a first-generation American and the influence of his Mexican and Louisiana roots. ◦ Speaker 1 and Don Martin discuss their shared passion for music and their commitment to creating meaningful art. • Collaboration and Future Projects (86:06) ◦ Don Martin expresses his interest in collaborating with Matt and other artists on future projects.They discuss the potential for recording live music and incorporating different musical elements.Don Martin shares his plans to visit Alameda, California, in 2026 and the possibility of working with Suuii and other artists. Matt offers to send Don Martin his music for potential collaboration and expresses his excitement for future collaborations.