HoMA Artist Spotlight: Ohtoro

HoMA is spotlighting the work of artists in our community during these unprecedented times. The Doris Duke Theatre team asked musician and teacher Ohtoro—also a core contributor to the Soundshop program—to share more about his work and what has been inspiring his creativity lately.

Ohtoro

Ohtoro leading a Soundshop workshop. Photo Credit: Christian Richard Cook

Aloha Ohtoro! Can you tell us about yourself? 

I was born and raised in Culver City, California and have been living in Honolulu for over 10 years. I have been producing Hip Hop, Soul, and Beat Scene music and have been a DJ for over 20 years. I was also a High School math teacher in Kapolei and in Los Angeles for 7 years. I started Zenbu Records, a music company specializing in nurturing the local Hawaiʻi Hip Hop, Soul and Beat Scene.

What’s inspiring you as an artist right now and why? 

Ironically it’s this lockdown that’s been giving some inspiration. Juggling work, life and fitting in time for music kept me really busy. Being forced to stay inside now it’s allowing me to start and finish all these projects I’ve been wanting to do. I’ve also been thinking of releasing more music since everyone else is on lockdown too. Music has saved my life and I hope it can add something positive to life. 

Before COVID-19 hit us, Nick Kurosawa and I had eight shows planned for the Japan Lovevol 2020 Tour. Unfortunately this was postponed so I made this video of footage from last year’s Zenbu Records Tour with Nick Kurosawa, Maxmo and DJ Packo. 

My parents are my inspiration. They taught me the right way to walk in life and gave me the tools to survive and be successful. I want to express my gratitude and happiness through music and through collaboration. I want listeners to feel the same way I did making it. This photo was taken on Maui walking back from a beach and it was a nice sweet moment with beautiful nature surrounding them. Love inspires. 

Ohtoro inspiration

Artist’s image of inspiration. Pictured: Ohtoro’s parents. Courtesy of Ohtoro.

To learn more and support Ohtoro’s work, head to his websites below and follow @ohtorobeats and @zenburecords! 

www.zenburecords.bandcamp.com

www.zenburecords.com