VALENTIN
(Lead Singer/Composer)
Valentin Mesa was born on the 9th of July in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The world of music was introduced to him at a very young age by his father. Music has been a part of his family for many generations.
By the age of 9 he was taking private piano classes in his home in the Dominican Republic. After a few months of learning the piano Valentin discovered that his true passion was for singing and not playing the piano. Valentin took advantage that his private teacher went on vacation and started taking vocal classes at a local public school. Valentin saved his lunch money from school to pay for his vocal classes.
At the age of 12 his passion for singing drew him to start a band with 6 of his closest friends from his neighborhood. They had the opportunity to play on national television and were featured in local newspaper. After 3 years performing together everyone was exploring different opportunities within the music industry. At this time Valentin went off to audition to be part of a Folklorico music group and made it as a back up vocalist. While in this group he traveled thru out the Dominican Republic performing on local television programs and large events. In high school Valentin took part in many local talent shows as a solo vocal artist in which he won a few 1st place awards.
At age 17 Valentin came to live to the United States where he finished the 12th grade. He went off to study Business Marketing and Sales as well as Music as a minor.
EDDIE
(Lead Guitar/Producer)
Born in US, I basically grew up listening to American music, and when i heard Bachata for the first time, I was absolutely inspired. Being half Dominican and half Puerto Rican, I became determined to connect with my background musically. Bachata was it! I finally got my 1st guitar at age 15 from my music teacher in high school.
Soon after my mother encouraged me by enrolling me in lessons at the Boys Harbor Music Conservatory, I turned out to be a quick leaner and soon moved on to learn guitar techniques for Bachata, from one of the best underground players around, Pablo Rosario, who is also a great personal friend. Under his instruction I soon found myself playing in some local bands. This gave me plenty of experience and taught me things about the hardships musicians go through like playing to the wee hours of the morning and then gettinga cut in pay for your efforts. I also enjoyed some of the benefits that came with being in a bands, like the free trips around the country while doing what i love most, playing music. Some of the artists and groups that I've had the most fun touring with were, Bachata Mix (1997-2000), Alex Bueno (1999), and Henry Castro (1999) to name a few. In being a part of these groups I learned more about rhythms and improvisation while playing the drum machine and rhythm guitar. I also had a close up look at musicians that I personally admired and can now incorporate their tricks.
I eventually took some time off to pursue other endeavors, both educational and otherwise. That time off allowed me to realize that my true calling was in music. I feel now especially that the Bachata genre, in general, is at an exciting point in its history. I can't think of a better way or time to experience it than with my friends and band mates in The Hustle Heartz!!!!
EDWIN
(Chorus/Singer)
Born in the city of Santiago, Dominican Republic, Edwin's love for music began arround the age of 3 years old. Edwin's family would always have music playing thoughout h house and he would find him self singing along. He was most drawn to what is known asa "Balada" Jose Luis Rodriguez was his favorite singer.
As years past Edwin would only sing in his home. Only his mother understood and knew his true passion was to sing. She would often encourage him and offered to get him professional vocal training, but Edwin would always refuse. He was very shy and growing up.
At the age of 18 he came to New York City and graduated from George Washington High School. During this time he would visit different clubs and druing one of his outings at "The Bahanas Restaurant" he met a girl who invited him to sing with her. She would invite Edwin from time to time there after to sing at local restaurants thru out the Washington Heights area. This is where Edwin would lose his fear of singing in public.
Edwin went back to the Dominican Republic to continue his college education. While in college he participated in a national contest called "Buscando El Exito" where he made it to the finalist. He also participated in a national company event where he took 1st place for his vocal talent.
After Henry Santos had spoken to Valentin Mesa about the project, he watched a video-tape where Edwin and Valentin sang together. He got obsessed about having them sing together again. Today, they are the singers of the group.
Our Album "The Hustle Heartz" was release on April 3rd, 2007. Its in stores now!
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