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10 Questions with ... Fabrizio Moreira
August 25, 2020
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1. What got you into music?
Growing up in Ecuador I had always been exposed to different types of music, but especially much of the regional pop, electronic and hip-hop that had been popular in my home and surrounding regions. When I relocated to New York a mentor and friend of mine turned me on to a lot of popular Latin, Reggaeton, Hip-Hop and even Eastern European artists. I really got into that "deep dive" passion for music in my early 20's and I was hooked on discovering all elements of music, including production and learning more about the music business. Sure, I loved music as a kid as much as anyone else, but when I figured out this was my passion as a career is when I really started getting into music as a listener and professional.
2. What did you dream of becoming when you were a kid?
I wanted to become the president of Ecuador, because when I was younger I learned that my father was a politician and was a senator in my country. He didn't live with me, so it took me a while to figure this out. When I did, it sparked a deep interest and I started taking positions that would lead me down that path. I stuck with that and financial positions before relocating and getting into music as a career.
3. What was the biggest change in your move from Ecuador to New York?
The change of pace and energy in New York is like night and day. I am a very passionate and business-minded person, so I really enjoyed that. I sometimes miss the simplicity of things back home, but that wouldn't allow me to get to where I am today. I knew that NY was great for many industries, so I had a pretty strong idea of what to expect when I got there. However, nothing beats walking down the street, feeling the energy and excitement that the US allows for anyone who wants to start a business.
Another big shock though was the cost of everything. A taxi route in Ecuador would cost me about $3-5 USD, but in NY I remember paying around $90 for a similar distance once. Lastly, I think the culture was another big change for me. Back home I had many connections, including political ones, but out here it was basically starting from zero.
4. You were very involved in politics in your native Ecuador. Are you still active in Ecuador's politics from New York?
Yes, and I am planning to run for a public office position in the next 5 to 8 years. I have a lot of change and ideas on my mind, and want to bring those things to reality. I want to be a part of a force for good, and help make major changes in the music industry for the better. I love to help people, so it's only a natural next step in my evolution here in the states.
5. Are you able to visit Ecuador?
Yes, I am fortunately, now more than before. At one point the Ecuadorian government sent the General Attorney forcé to see if I was in town, as I was wanted due to my protesting and advocacy for anti-corruption. It's a long story, but now all has changed since Rafael Correa lost power and now that Hugo Chávez is dead. Basically, at one point Chavez tried to make the government incarcerate me, while he was visiting my town and there are still some newspaper reports about it.
6. There's considerable racial unrest and upheaval in this country. Are aspects of what is happening on the streets of the United States too familiar to you or still far removed from Ecuador?
I find some similarities but I should say as a Latino I have found good and bad actors here. Some people definitely racially profile for various reasons. At one point I met in NY with a super powerful Wall Street individual, whom I will avoid his name, but I can tell you he sold one of his companies for hundreds of millions. When he saw me the first time he was kind of “wow you more white than the regular Ecuadorians, you should be high class in your country”. I did respond to him "well, actually my great grandparents came from the same country your family likely did". He asked the person who introduced us why he didn’t tell him I was Jewish, and I simply told him "no, I am Latino, but I do still have some Jewish blood in me. I know these conversations mean no harm compared to other challenges people face, but you can tell people knowingly, or even unknowingly carry stereotypes within.
7. In addition to VIP MUSIC, don't you run a talent booking agency?
Yes, I do, I am actually a licensed talent agent. Most of my work is on the songwriting and production side with Secret Hit, but I do have access and the skills needed to make things happen, including my record label for signing and releasing music when needed. I have big plans for my companies, and we're just at the upswing of things.
8. What artist could you see making a run for political office?
At some point I discussed this with Eliezer Palacios, the songwriter of many hits and someone who has mentored me over the years. I told him I saw him running for governor of Puerto Rico. Also, I could see Jay Z being a great candidate for office, and maybe even someone who could be a great president.
9. Hypothetical situation: If you weren't in music or politics, what do you think you would be doing professionally?
I did love chemistry growing up, so perhaps a chemist or something in the engineering realm of professions.
10. What can the music industry do better as we move forward in 2020?
I think we should be way more fair with songwriters and producers moving forward. From royalties to how executives in power handle business, I'm hoping things keep growing in the right direction. I won't dive into specific issues, as I'm very thankful and most things are amazing overall. However, it's in my nature to fight for what I believe in and there are a few things on my list I'd like to take head on.
Bonus Questions
Any new hobbies or activities for you during the Covid-19 pandemic?
My kids and I have been organizing and building on some powerful ideas. I want to make sure I'm always learning and discovering inspiration to grow as a father and entrepreneur. I think this situation has allowed me to access a lot of tools to better provide the members of our movement (and my kids) avenues for personal and business growth. I have been forging some new partnerships as well during the lockdown. As far as hobbies or activities outside of that, I can honestly say being a father and business owner takes up 99% of my time.
If you could be on any TV reality show or game show, which would you want to be on?
Ellen for sure. I think she would appreciate my story, and I really enjoy watching her interviews with a diverse range of guests. It's really inspiring, so many people with stories of all types.
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Fabrizio
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/Fabrizio
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/Fabrizio
Webpage http://www.fabriziomoreira.com -
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