The Power of Story and Spirit: An Interview with Hip-Hop Artist Artson

Hip-hop is more than beats and rhymes—it’s a culture, a form of healing, and a connection to ancestry. That’s the heart of the conversation between Daybreak Star Radio’s Jermaine Jackson and acclaimed MC Artson, who joined the station for a powerful interview reflecting on his journey through music, culture, and purpose.

Check out the full interview below to hear the entire conversation, including Artson’s personal stories, artistic insights, and advice for the next generation of artists.

Born in El Paso, Texas, Artson (also known as I Am Artson) represents the Raramuri (Tarahumara) people of Chihuahua, Mexico. His early connection to hip-hop came through breaking, the original dance element of hip-hop, and that energy still runs deep in his work today. From ciphers in the neighborhood to recording his first tracks in the ‘90s, Artson’s career is a testament to dedication and staying true to one’s roots.

From Breaking to Building Culture

In the interview, Artson talks about growing up surrounded by hip-hop, not through radio or the internet, but in the streets. Breaking, graffiti, freestyle battles, and block parties were his foundation. While early musical influences included both East Coast lyricists like Nas and The Roots and West Coast innovators like Ice Cube and Hieroglyphics, Artson’s unique sound fuses hip-hop with Indigenous spirit and lived experience.

But it wasn’t just music that shaped him. His connection to Rock Steady Crew, one of the most iconic breaking crews in hip-hop history, gave him early validation—but also a reminder from legends like Mr. Wiggles: bring your own story to the culture. “Don’t just join hip-hop,” Artson recalls, “bring something to it.”

Culture as Medicine

Artson’s path has not been without struggle. He didn’t grow up immersed in traditional Native teachings. Instead, hip-hop became his path back to his culture. Through music, movement, and community, he rediscovered the rhythms, stories, and symbols of his ancestry. “Hip-hop woke up my DNA,” he said. “We’ve been telling stories through drum and dance for generations.”

This reconnection wasn’t just artistic—it was spiritual. A turning point came during a sweat lodge ceremony with DJ Kool Herc, considered one of the founding fathers of hip-hop. That moment, blending sacred Indigenous practice and hip-hop legacy, confirmed for Artson that he was walking the right path—merging tradition with beats and bars.

Staying Fresh, Staying True

Despite the pressures and challenges of the music industry, Artson keeps grounded by remembering that expression is medicine. Music is how he stays healthy and channels pain, joy, and transformation. “I still want to be fresh,” he said, “but more than that—I need this to live.”

He’s sitting on six unreleased albums, crafted while on the road with a theater show and during breaks from touring. His drive isn’t about fame but expression, evolution, and giving something back to the culture and his people.

Giving Back to the Youth

One of Artson’s biggest goals is to inspire the next generation. As someone who didn’t have many visible role models growing up, he’s passionate about showing Indigenous youth what’s possible. “I want kids to see someone who looks like them being dope,” he said. “So they know it’s possible—whether it’s in music, dance, art, or anything else.”

His advice to young Indigenous artists? Be your authentic self. Don’t try to fit into someone else’s mold. Bring your culture, your story, and your truth to your art. “Nobody gave me this. I sacrificed for it,” he said. “But it’s possible if you’re willing to do the work.”

The Journey Continues

As Artson looks to the future, his goals are clear: release new music, grow as an artist, build with the community, and give back. He’s focused on the long game—the journey, not just the destination. And whether he’s performing at the Gathering of MCs in Albuquerque or connecting with youth in classrooms, his mission remains the same: honor the culture, uplift the people, and stay true to the path.

To support Artson’s music, upcoming projects, and powerful message, visit his website at:
👉 www.iamartson.com