Rhymesmith

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Official Rhymesmith Promo
"Spectacles" LIVE @ The Coffee Depot
"Days Go By" w/ IYE Rize LIVE @ The Coffee Depot
"The Men's Room" LIVE @ The Coffee Depot
In Studio w/ The Rhymesmith
ABOUT THE RHYMESMITH:
I go by a few different names. I'm musically known as "The Rhymesmith". This is of course a play on the noun “Blacksmith”, which is someone who uses simple tools to forge iron into the shape of his liking. Given the strength of steal, this is a difficult task, and cannot be accomplished by the average person. A blacksmith is one who bends that which is seemingly unbendable. He is persistent and dedicated to his craft. When it won’t bend, he pounds it with his hammer and throws it back into the flames. This is what I do with my rhymes.
Among my peers, I'm most commonly known as "Hapa". This word was birthed by the native tong of my ancestors to define “half”, “a part of”, or “of mixed blood”. It is also an “A Minor” in music, and was once used as a derogatory term toward half breeds. I am a half breed. I will occasionally refer to myself as "Hapa the Rhymesmith" when I feel the need to be fancy, but any of the three will due.
In the late 90's, a handful of amateur yet vibrant graffiti pieces started sprouting up on various brick walls in East Anaheim, Garden Grove and West Santa Ana. The skinny, 13 year old graph writer was known as BOMB1. That was me, too. In addition to the tagging and graffiti writing, I also dove head first into DJ'ing, spinning for local kick backs and house parties. It didn't last long enough to be deemed anything other than "That one Hawaiian cat that spins." Here's where the other element comes in.
I discovered my passion for writing at about 5 years old. It wasn't until years later that I discovered my ability to rhyme words. I loved words before I had ever heard Hip Hop. So when I first discovered this art form, I was hit with a strong feeling of validation and understanding. I haven't wanted to do anything else since.
I've performed in small venues throughout the Inland Empire of Southern California. For now, however, the bulk of my work is being done in the studio. My goal is to build up enough solid material to become a regular performer in as many clubs and venues as possible. Besides locally, I also plan to travel and perform in different states, which would be funded by my merchandise and record sales. 2009 is going to be a great year. At this point in time, my goal is to stay independent. That's not to say that I don't plan to make this my career. I have no shame in saying that I do this, partially, for money. I feel that I've been given a gift, and it just so happens that my talents match up perfectly with my passions. When I am able to use my passion to make an honest and prosperous living for my family and I, without having to compromise my art and beliefs; the dream has been captured. As for a major deal, there is nothing that could be brought to my table that wouldn't be taken into serious consideration. However, as I said before, my goal is to approach this business independently. The only contract I would sign today would be for a distribution deal. But the music is mine.
If I were to be asked to describe my style in one word, I would have to say "Raw". I realize that word gets frivolously tossed around more often then not now days, but I believe this is one of the rare occasions where it just may fit. I choose this word because my music can be hard on the brain, while soft on the ears. I poses a small singing background, and I try to bring that aspect to the Hip Hop table. Because of this, I'm often commended for having a smooth, melodic, and somewhat soulful sound. I take this as a high compliment. However, my lyrics often derive from heart break, anger and pessimism. I do enjoy writing the occasional spirit lifter, with good vibes and positive messages; but I do believe you must turn your back on angels in order to face demons. I have my fair share of demons, and this is how I face them.
I cherish and appreciate each and every fan I have. Whether I've known them for years, related to them, or hooked them with my music. However, I can honestly but respectfully say that I do not make this music for them. I am not an entertainer. I make this music for me. Until further research can prove otherwise, I am a human being. And as a human being I fight a constant battle within my heart and mind; this is normal. It's as an artist that I'm able to personify my struggle, and tune you into it. Whatever I may be struggling with from day to day, you will hear about it. This is why I may say "Thank God" in one song, but question his very existence in the next. I do it because its true, and my sanity often depends on it. All I have to do is make the listener bob their head to it, and a win-win is presented.
Thank you, and enjoy the music.
-Hapa
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