Dominican–Cuban artist Antone Now started making beats at 10 years old and taught himself everything from production to visuals. In this episode, he joins Gadiel Del Orbe to talk about growing up as a bedroom producer, turning into a full alternative hip hop artist, and trying to stand out in a crowded music landscape. They break down his influences (Kanye, Tyler, Gambino), why so much rap feels empty right now, and what it really takes to be unique, self-made, and consistent in 2025. If you’re a young creative or aspiring artist, this conversation is a powerful mix of inspiration and real talk.
In this episode of The Gadiel Del Orbe Show, Gadiel sits down with Dominican–Cuban alternative hip hop artist and producer, Antone Now – a 17-year-old who started making beats at 10 and never waited for anyone’s permission.
They talk about:
Growing up making beats in his bedroom with YouTube tutorials
Why he never wanted to be a rapper at first — and what changed
Learning production, visuals, and branding completely DIY
His biggest influences: Kanye West (musically), Tyler, The Creator, Childish Gambino, JPEGMAFIA, Gene Dawson
Alternative hip hop, hyperpop, rock and genre-blending sounds
The problem with today’s rap and why the bar feels so low
Making music on your phone, GarageBand, and how easy it is to start
Why failing early is a superpower and why you should “just do it”
00:00 – The Prodigy Intro
Dominican–Cuban kid who started making beats at 10 years old.
02:45 – From Drawing to Digital Art & Beats
How loving computers and visuals led him into production.
05:00 – “I Never Wanted to Be a Rapper”
The moment he went from producer in the background to artist on stage.
10:45 – Influences: Kanye, Tyler, Gambino & Being Truly Unique
Why copying at first can actually help you find your own sound.
24:10 – “Anyone Can Make Music… Not Everyone Is an Artist”
Harsh truths about the current state of hip hop & advice for young creators.
The importance of authenticity, not faking a mysterious persona
How being Dominican–Cuban shapes his identity and future vision
Connect with Antone Now:
IG / TikTok / X: @antonenow
Connect with Gadiel:
IG / TikTok / YouTube: @gadieldelorbe