[Single] Santiago (@SantiagoMafia) - Ride Foreign

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Original, authentic, deep—all adjectives that perfectly describe hip hop artist Santiago. However, along with his originality, the young artist is also a survivor. “I’ve been around a whole lot of tragedy. I’m a gunshot victim. I was at the wrong place at the wrong time. I’ve also served time in prison,” admitted Santiago. “I have a whole family history of violence. My brother was shot, and he died in the car on the way to the hospital. I have grandfathers and uncles who were kingpins and murdered.” Through his music, Santiago hopes to serve as an inspiration for others who’ve lived a life of tragedy and misfortune. “My goal is to bring us up out of that,” explained Santiago. “I want people to know that tomorrow is a new day, and there is a way out of the streets. You just have to be determined, persistent and keep your eyes on your goals.” For Santiago’s album title, it means much more than just another synonym for gangstas.

“M.A.F.I.A. stands for money and fame in America,” explained Santiago. “The first single off the album will be a track called On My Own. It’s like a street anthem. It’s about whatever I have I got on my own.” To learn more about Santiago, check him out on his website by clicking here. You can also find him on Twitter. You can listen to his music on SoundCloud.com.