MALVERDE

Malverde wants to save the world. The Chicano rapper who was raised by migrant farm workers in Coachella, Calif., has returned with his second studio effort to awaken his gente. But instead of handing out riches, he's bringing new lyrics to motivate and provide insight. Inspired by the sounds of KRS-One, Dr. Dre and Cypress Hill, as well as the social and political influence of Bob Marley, Malverde raps in both Spanish and English about different issues including thos affecting people living in the bordertowns of the U.S. and Mexico. His first album, Mi Palabra, debuted in 2003, and was re-released in 2006 and included the track "La Marcha," about the May 2006 Immigrant March. Since then, Malverde has been recording his new album, La Leyenda Continua, set to drop this month. Don't let his appearance fool you. Behind his sinister shades and over-sized political T-shirts, he's really a humble family guy who's happiest when eating his mom's huevos rancheros and conveying his grandfather's dichos through his music.

The Mexican Legend of Jesus Malverde
Jesus Martinez Gonzalez (aka Malverde) inherited his name from an old 19th century Mexican fold legend named Jesus Malverde, who stole from the rich to give to the poor. Aside from the same first name, both are determined to help their people.

"My rap is about a man who is still glorified because he gained immortality through his actions," Malverde reflects. "[Malverde is] the word of the streets. [He] represents the people. [He] represents everything I represent."

A Revolutionary Life
Even though the folk legend is commonly honored by narco-traffickers for luck, this Malverde uses his knowledge (a degree in political science) to share wisdom with his barrio. Using music, he hopes to inspire his gente to make a difference. A hip-hop fan since the mid-'90s, the wordsmith's writing changed as he learned about his culture and became involved with immigrant rights and the anti-English only movement. When he learned to count to the beat of music, his musical career was born.

La Lucha Continues
Actively involved in his community, Malverde gives his time to various organizations like the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund. LIFEbeat and Libros Para Todos, that help at-risk youth, migrant students and raise HIV/AIDS awareness. He's most recently become involved with Voto Latino's Artist Coalition to encourage voter participation.

"The more Latinos are aware of the issues and get involved, the better it will be for us," Malverde says.

The Next Chapter
Malverde's 13-track, sophomore album, La Leyenda Continua, will feature the melodic new song, "She Was My," as well as collaborations with B. Real of Cypress Hill, Son Doobie of Funk Doobiest and newcomers Aro Sanchez and Juan Barajas. As with all of his music, Malverde is determined to convey a message. Specifically, that we're all worthy of opportunities even if we might have to surpass more obstacles and challenges.

"[It] pays homage to the legend that continues with us, the new generation," he says.

Published in Batanga Magazine (February/March 2008)