Yung Fuego
Yung Fuego is a rapper from Seattle, WA who goes to Vashon High School. As an emerging artist who started his journey in 2018 and had just debuted performing live for the very first time at Winter Magic, we are honored to be able to have Yung Fuego be featured for our 26th installment of The Song.
THE INTERVIEW
Tell us about your song. What inspired you? What is the message behind the song?
My newest single, ‘Respect On It’ just released on January 1st. It was driven by many things including inspiration and messages.
After the release of one of my songs, Superstar Status, I faced a tough challenge. No path to stardom is complete without one interfering obstacle — haters. While the response to the song was mostly positive, there was hate that infuriated me and brought me to a stage of rage and confusion. In an angry state full of rash decisions, I announced that I was quitting music. I felt like this was the only way to handle the negativity, to let them win. I later realized my mistake and changed my mind a day later, but the damage was already done. Still disoriented from that situation though, I went forward with one message to my opposition, "Put Some Respect On It". This was a message that I could use to boost my self-confidence and counter all the hate that I was getting. The message of the song is to be strong and prove your haters wrong.
What was one of your first experiences with music that made you want to become a creator? Why do you continue to create music?
One of my first experiences with music that made me want to be a creator was when I was little, my family went on a vacation. The hotel that we went to had karaoke, and I spent hours performing — realizing that this is what I wanted in life. This later developed into a passion as I had started my first band in Second Grade called Doomsday. After many talent shows, I kept on going and eventually came to the studio to pursue my dream. I continue to make music because this is my dream, and I love every bit of it.
How has Totem Star helped shape you as a person and as an artist? How have your other communities (family, friends, country, city, etc) shaped you in those same ways?
Totem Star has helped develop me as an artist and person. Through Totem Star, I had a way to record and develop my music as well as a creative outlet. I have learned almost everything I know about music from here and it has been a great experience for me. I have made new friends through this and it has changed my life.
If you could pick a top 3 -- what are your three most treasured values you try to live by?
My three most treasured values that I try to live by is to be kind, be honest, and be myself.
Where do you hope to see yourself in 5 years from now?
5 years from now, I see myself a successful rapper on a world tour, with millions of followers, and a dedicated fan base.
Yung Fuego
Best known as a Seattle native, Yung Fuego has been building his solo career as a talented Hip Hop Artist since 2018. Influenced by the community, culture, and sounds of his hometown, Yung Fuego aspires to perform music that speaks to fans across the musical spectrum. His signature style has become synonymous with a diverse collection of melodies and a style unlike anything else.
You can follow Yung Fuego @diego_el_fuego