As a supporter of the music industry in Boston and Latino music, Conrad Acid, known artistically as Radical One, has played a significant role in promoting multiculturalism and inclusivity within the city’s music scene. As both a producer for Rumba 97.7, iHeartRadio’s Latin station, and an artist himself, he paves the way for a more welcoming industry for all cultures. In this interview, Radical One discusses Latino music in Boston, nurturing connections amongst music fans, and shares insights into his latest project, “Alternativo” — a new music event aimed at cultivating a diverse blend of sound and celebrating the city of Boston’s vibrant music scene.
Radical One, hailing from the Dominican Republic but predominantly raised in Boston, embarked on his musical journey during his high school years. During that time, he shared his beats with family and friends. Upon entering college, he immersed himself in the campus radio scene, expanding his skills in radio hosting, DJing, and music production.
Transitioning from performing at bars and parties to embracing the SoundCloud era, where producers shared their beats and mixes, Radical One found inspiration during the rise of artists like “Diplo and Friends.” These early experiences marked the beginning of his career. Over the years, he has cultivated a diverse skill set, allowing him to seamlessly blend classic Latin music with experimentation in new genres.
“I’ve done everything from salsa, merengue, bachata. I feel like I’m pioneering a new genre called tropical fusion, or at least partaking in the genre. But I’m also living in a modern world. I’m trying to find a way to marry those two, so I call it tropical fusion,” he told us.
In addition to his impressive credentials, the producer also hosts his own segment on iHeartRadio’s Rumba 97.7. Here, listeners not only experience the pioneering sound of his genre, “Tropical Fusion,” but also gain insights into the latest Latino news and events shaping the vibrant scene of Boston. Infused with his charismatic personality, Radical One offers expert opinions on the latest developments, drawing from his wealth of experience.
“I think that I’m able to express my views and opinions and share information about what I think about the latest music developments. I can become a voice for the people in Boston.”
Like many music enthusiasts have experienced, Radical One reminisces about a pivotal moment when music enriched a cherished chapter of his life, his smile reflecting the fond memory.
“I think being 10 or 12 years old and hearing ‘Noche de Travesuras’ in a Dominican bakery on the radio is a very vivid event for me. It was in Jamaica Plain. I remember the place and everything. It’s not there anymore, but it is the thing that made me feel like I was connected to the community. I literally do not forget that moment. It’s crazy to me.”
Radical One is fervently dedicated to advancing freedom in music and fostering opportunities where people from all walks of life can come together with music as their common denominator. Motivated by the noticeable absence of a more integrated fan base among genres, he is driven to spearhead this movement to greater heights. His passion fuels his mission to drive the local scene forward and ensure that all types of voices are heard and celebrated.
“I want to fill that missing gap. It’s something that I’m very passionate about as a producer. I’m very acclimated with different sounds and my influences. I like electronic music. I like House Music, Lansing, Afro B, hip hop. There’s nothing along those lines here that can cater to like ‘come as you are doesn’t matter if you are Latino, doesn’t matter if you’re black, white’. I’m trying to break that. I’m not trying to be the savior, but at least I want something where I can feel like I’m home and where people can feel like they’re home too. Boston is such a known city. LA has a scene like this. They have an underground type of scene, Miami, New York. But Boston hasn’t had that yet, and I think it’s time I step up to the plate.”
With this mission in mind, Radical One has manifested his vision into an event where these same principles will be shared and championed.
“So, ‘Alternativo’ is the event, our slogan is ‘uniting people through dance.’ Kind of being a place where you can come as you are, come, listen, and represent your culture too if you want. It’s a place where there’s no judgment. You’ll be able to be free of anything that you feel attached or detached from. Essentially, really trying to bridge that gap between the sounds with a heavy component of Afro-Latin and Caribbean sound with contemporary wireless, electronic, house, hip-hop, Jersey club.”
Continuing his journey in the music industry, Radical One shares the sources of joy in his career and eagerly anticipates what lies ahead.
“I find a lot of purpose in spreading my sound and seeing other people enjoy it. Being at a place where I definitely want to work with more artists and really grow the sound. Work with other big artists to create a movement. That’s with working with artists that are still new, of all levels really. I’m never trying to limit myself because the next hit can come from the kid who’s working his way up. I never really try to judge; if I believe in the product, I work with it. That’s the building up for me, and I’m building my catalog. I’m excited to release some new music that I got going. I actually have a new single coming up, ‘Tripleta.'”
Radical One concludes with a piece of advice for those embarking on a career in the music industry or any artistic pursuit.
“I think definitely try to seek out like-minded individuals or places or events. Don’t be afraid to reach out. Don’t be afraid to just enjoy and don’t feel the pressure that tends to happen the first time that you go to an event, the first time you talk. Ease into it. Keep following up. Try not to harass people, but just be yourself. When it’s time, when it works, it’ll work. You’ll feel the vibe from the people or person you’re talking to. That’s what’s been going for me. It’s taking time to meet people that are on the same wavelength as me. Now I’m able to go release something and create what I see. That’s the other thing, if you don’t see it, make it. Obviously, don’t set yourself up for failure; it’s hard to be the only one. It’s a spearhead, but it’s not impossible. Do it with the team, with the right people. If that’s the route you go, I commend people to try.”
Producer and artist Radical One is not only a champion of music but also a dedicated advocate for the city of Boston. The seamless fusion of musical styles in his artistry reflects his belief in the power of music to unite people on a profound and personal level. This not only enhances the music experience for Boston’s fans but also fosters community among the city’s rich tapestry of cultures, enriching the lives of all who call it home.
Experience “Alternativo” and Radical One’s blend of music at the Lily Pad in Cambridge, scheduled for Saturday, April 27th, from 10pm to 1am.
Get tickers for “Alternativo” here!
Radical One Online: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Spotify | AppleMusic
