Los Nativos

Los Nativos ranked among the first acts inked to Headshots, the imprint that evolved into the respected independent rap label Rhymesayers. The duo merged American and Latin musical elements to craft a form of hip-hop steeped in political and social consciousness. MC Felipe Cuauhtli, whose real name is Felipe Espinoza-Day, and MC/producer Chilam Balam, born Jermain Ybarra, devoted numerous years to appearances at modest local gatherings throughout the Twin Cities prior to issuing their debut single "TtLtLACHINOLLi" during 2002. Strong support from listeners enabled the 2003 arrival of their initial full-length project, Dia de los Muertos, with Red Star Fist arriving the subsequent year.