Keeping an ear to the street is paramount in the music industry. Paying homage to those who paved the way as well as exhibiting humility are a part of any great artist’s apprenticeship or “paying dues” process. While New Orleans Uptown neighborhoods may have established a reputation for being crime-ridden, there lives an immeasurable gift that manifests itself daily. This gift is known as music and in New Orleans, music continues to be a focal point in the Calliope Projects aka CP3. The Heat Magazine brings you an interesting interview on a young man by the name of Paco Troxclair. Paco is a rap artist and currently he has the city of New Orleans going “Duffy.”
The Heat Magazine: How did you come up with the moniker “Paco Troxclair”?
Paco: Paco was the name given to me in the Calliope (projects). It’s a mystery to me how it exactly became my name but many people attempt to solve the mystery. Troxclair is the last name of my family in the Calliope which is my momma’s side that I’m closest with.
The Heat Magazine: Fullpack has been a mainstay in urban music. How did you connect with such an established company?
Paco: Fess of Full Pack is an extended member of my family. I would always hear about the great things he did and he invited me over after hearing a project of mine. I immediately began working with Don and Fess and we shared a love for music.
The Heat Magazine: Your new single ‘Duffy’ is garnering great feedback. How did you come up with this hit?
Paco: I literally went to the studio excited and Fess was there first and I told Fess I wanted something that drop in hard as fuck. He begin building the beat and I was in love with it. It was something that I did without thinking. It came very natural to me. Fess didn’t like it at first; he thought the beat was too easy and he wanted to add things. I think when something happens that easy you just think this can’t be.
The Heat Magazine: What artists influence you?
Paco: I’m a product of my hometown. Therefore, all of the hometown heroes but If you know me you know I love B.G.
The Heat Magazine: Who do you plan on working with in the near future?
Paco: I have some things in the works with Currensy. I believe we can do something dope because the energy he brings, works well with what I’m about.
The Heat Magazine: What can your supporters and our readers expect from Paco Troxclair in 2018?
Paco: Expect me to go Duffy. Me and KL have made a gang of records. Also me and Flight School have connected and they are leading the New Orleans new school. Expect the “new New Orleans” sound.
The Heat Magazine: You were able to blend a nostalgic vibe from New Orleans classic days with the wave that exists currently in the 21st century. How important was this concept to you?
Paco: This happened organically so I can’t say for sure it was consciously important. I never thought about it but working with Full Pack made me want to create the new wave of New Orleans. I don’t think people have any idea what New Orleans music sounds like in the new times.
The Heat Magazine: When you’re not doing music or performing, what do you like to do in your leisure time?
Paco: I’m always finding new ways to maximize my potential. One thing I do a lot of is work out. I saw Mystikal one day on ‘Second and D’ and he was in such great shape he inspired me.
The Heat Magazine: What advice would you give to the youth concerning the music industry?
Paco: What I’ve learned is individual people are powerful. You can do more than you believe. You don’t need a label or manager. Focus on your following and those who appreciate what you do.
The Heat Magazine: Interesting! What do you love most about New Orleans?
Paco: The second lines, seafood, I really miss the block parties. I love the drinking in the streets and the girls at super Sunday. I love the culture.
The Heat Magazine: What area in New Orleans do you represent?
Paco: I represent the Calliope project. I actually lived in Gentilly as well but my roots are in the Calliope, my family, my influences, and the place I was raised.
The Heat Magazine: Your stage performance is outgoing and your video is fun. How important is it for you to have fun doing music?
Paco: I enjoy having a good time in life so my art reflects that. Ultimately, music is to lift the vibe so it’s a must I keep the frequencies high.
The Heat Magazine: Tell the world your favorite New Orleans dish and where they should visit if they come down for Mardi Gras?
Paco: Crawfish and shrimp; I love it. I probably eat it too much but I’m not sure if I’ll give that up. I could do it everyday. The place they should visit is Cajuns Seafood. You have to go there. I’m an addict.
Follow Paco Troxclair @pacotroxclair on Instagram.
Stream Paco Troxclair’s single here:
Stream video here:
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i2FsWRd8UW8&w=560&h=315]
