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Down AKA Kilo

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Down AKA Kilo

Background Information

Born Juan Jose Martinez in the year 1985, he’s now hovering somewhere between thirty-nine and forty, a fact that seems to mildly inconvenience him. His origins trace back to Oxnard, California, a place that apparently left its mark. His parents, immigrants from Mexico, brought him into a world that he’d later soundtrack with hip hop.

Martinez’s formative years were steeped in the sounds of Cypress Hill and the unapologetic narratives of N.W.A. By thirteen, the rhythm had taken hold, and he was already trying his hand at rapping. His early experiments weren’t in some sterile studio; they were in the garage of a childhood friend, Edward "E-Dub" Rios. This same Rios would later become a producer for Power 106, specifically for the show "Pocos Pero Locos". It’s a small detail, but tells you something about the ecosystem of ambition and sound he emerged from.

His career officially launched with his debut album, California Cowboyz, in 2003. This was followed by Definition of an Ese in 2007. The latter spawned two singles that managed to claw their way into public consciousness: "Lean like a Cholo" and the title track, "Definition of an Ese." These weren't just songs; they were snapshots of a particular culture, delivered with a cadence that resonated.

Life, however, has a way of interrupting even the most carefully crafted narratives. On March 28, 2009, Martinez was involved in a serious car crash in Farmington, New Mexico. The incident left him in a coma, a stark reminder of the fragility that underlies even the most vibrant lives. He’s an artist who’s lived through more than just studio sessions and chart positions.

Discography

Albums

  • California Cowboyz

    • Released: July 8, 2003
    • Labels: Down By Law (#1300), Silent Giant (#8006)
    • Formats: CD, digital download
    • Chart Performance: Did not chart on US R&B or US Heatseekers charts.

  • Definition of an Ese

    • Released: April 10, 2007
    • Label: Silent Giant (# 880110)
    • Formats: CD/DVD, digital download
    • Chart Performance: Reached number 70 on the US R&B chart and number 11 on the US Heatseekers chart.

Singles