Fresh Spotlight: The Flight of AvAtor Hughes

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When you first meet AvAtor Hughes it is hard to believe that he could even be a rapper. With a cool demeanor and charismatic grin, this Columbus, OH native comes off more as just another kid who might know a little something about hip hop. Then he opens his mouth. When AvAtor Hughes raps, he has something to say and the rhymes are so smooth and on target, you cannot help but bob your head to the beat and feel what he is saying. In an industry that is filled with an abundance of mediocre talent and surrounded by exploited marketing, AvAtor Hughes believes that he has what it takes to contest and change the hip hop game.  In his first interview, AvAtor Hughes opens up on why a new moniker was essential in cementing his presence in hip hop, how achieving his musical dreams is the true pursuit of happiness for him and why putting Ohio on the map is so important.

You used to formally rap under J Toy. Why the change to AvAtor Hughes?
I just felt like it was the best thing to do. Being that there are a million “J” something’s out here, I wanted to separate myself and stand out. You know, get out of that box. But with the new name AvAtor Hughes, it’s real ripe and different. I got the inspiration of the name from one of my favorite movies “The Aviator.” It’s a Martin Scorsese film about the life of Howard Hughes. He was one of the world’s greatest innovators of all time and his accomplishments inspire me to make my mark on this world. So that is one of the reasons that I choose this name.

How does your new name play a part in your movement and AvAtion Ent.?
It plays a major part in the movement. Being that I am from Ohio, with every move I make I’m reppin my home state. Even when they say my name or mention my music, Ohio is shining. Plus you know that Ohio is first in flight right, lol? So the new name is not only helping me pave my way into the world of music and beyond, it’s ultimately bringing light to Ohio and what our musical forefathers and mothers have put down.

Describe your style.
My style is very undefined. Whatever the beat asks of me is what I give out. I mean I just like to go off of that pure feeling. That vibe. And then let my skill take flight. Plus I feel my flow will be enough for the public to distinguish me from the others.

Was there a certain song or artist that ignited the fire for you to become an MC?
LL Cool J was the first artist that I ever heard. From there the Rawkus Records Movement ushered me into the rap game. But my biggest influence is Andre 3000. The way he carries himself and his style inspires me. He just is himself on the mic and in public. Doing him at all time no matter what others may think. Not to mention, he has a mean lyrical flow.

What do you think about the current state of hip hop?
I’m not pleased with it overall. We need to start getting people to listen to the lyrics and not just the beats. Hip Hop is not really centered on making albums anymore–just singles. For instance, some of these new dudes, no hate on them, but who is going to buy their album? I mean really. The industry big wigs are more concerned about selling ringtones and a quick hit single, than making their artist strive for classic work all the time. Overall the message in hip hop is lacking right now. It is more retrospective to what is happening now to the young generation. Quick money is the new claim to fame. No one wants to work and hone their craft.

Where does the inspiration for your music come from?
It truly comes from my life. But if you look at the songs that I’ve made this far, personal experiences play a huge role. For example, “When the Money Comes” reveals my fears of what comes along with success. Likewise, “Don’t Turn Around” discusses past mistakes I’ve made. But even with up tempo and club records, I still give you pieces of me.

What are your must haves before performing?
A cocky attitude is #1. It kills any nervous energy that I may have. Next, a crowd that has an open ear. Pretty much, nothing else as long as my music is mastered and is ready to go.

Why are you so passionate about giving Ohio its proper credit as a music industry pioneer?
I just feel like Ohio deserves the utmost respect in the music industry. Ohio has always been a pioneering force in bringing something new to the table. There are no artists that have touch the game with a sound the way Bootsy Collins, John Legend, Bone Thugs and Harmony, Anita Baker, Earth, Wind, and Fire, Roger Troutman, The O jay’s, The Isley Brothers. I mean I can go on and on. But yet, Ohio never gets the credit. We have always come with the different sound. That new vibe and feel to music. Its only right that I carry the torch and bring our light to the forefront. That is why I formed AvAtion Entertainment. Ohio has gotten many artists off of the ground musically. It is time for Ohio to join them in the sky of success.

Are there any upcoming projects, performances?
Right now, I’m in post production to bring closure to my first musical project called “Shut Up and Listen Flight Tape”. I titled it that because I really want music lovers to just shut up and listen to what
I have to say. Other than that, just making more good music, song writing for local artist and making my way to mainstream artist and performing at events and clubs.

Where do you see yourself in five years?
I see myself as an established artist bringing a Grammy home to Ohio. I want to be able to grow as an artist and have a substantial body of work that is evolving.

Here is a sneak peek of AvAtor Hughes’s music:

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To hear more music from AvAtor Hughes and follow his rise to success, visit his Myspace Music page at www.myspace.com/jtoyava and follow him on Facebook.

Tagged as: J Toy

Article by Jenifer Moore

Jenifer serves as Editorial Director for The FreshXpress. A native of the Queen City, writing is her muse and she thrives on the Public Relations scene. While she is a lover of all music, she lives by the Biggie mantra "Sky is the Limit".

Jenifer has written 53 article(s) for us.