Not many of us are lucky enough to be able to follow in our father’s footsteps. Our recent find Brett “Beretta” Vasquez, who produces music under the name The Street Vendors, has a dad that has been making music for the last 30 years. Beretta seems to be putting in the same hard work and is on his way to a career as a working musician.
We caught up with the charismatic artist for a chat about where he is and where he is going. Enjoy the interview here:
First off, tell us the story behind the name The Street Vendors?
There isn’t much of a story behind the name Street Vendors. But I can give an analogy. I’m from New York City. In the five boroughs including the Bronx and Manhattan, you see several street carts selling halal food, hot dogs, coffee, etc. We decided the name street vendors because we are sellers of street music. We give people music rather than food.
How would you describe your sound?
The sound is a mix of radio friendly hip-hop, pop, and R&B. I keep the swearing at a minimum and I don’t support violence, misogyny, and negativity. The sound is positive, uplifting, and motivating.
Who would you say has been the biggest influence on your career?
My biggest influence for my career is my father. As a little kid he put me on stage with him. I watched crowds of people sing every word to his songs. Even at 53 years old he has the musical drive of someone just starting out like me. He continues to do shows all around the world. He gets paid to do what he loves. He’s connected with people all throughout the music industry. I’ve met countless numbers of artists, DJ’s, and producers during that time. I’m blessed to have that experience.
After seeing behind the scenes of the music industry from your father in TKA, what pushes you to create your own music?
Music in general drives me to create my own. I love music and it amazes me that people have the talent to create such great art. I truly appreciate it. But sometimes I much rather listen to a producers beat than listen to another artist’s song. I love to work with dope producers and other artists who have the same vision and can help me create. I always bring my close friends to the studio with me. I have them there to keep me on point. They help me keep up my confidence, delivery, and charisma.
How does a song come together for you? What is your process?
A song comes together piece by piece. Depending on if the chorus starts the song or if the verse starts the song. I’m constantly looking for new tracks that give me a spark. Once I have that spark over the next several days I find time during my lunch break or late at night on my deck to write in my iPhone notes. I find I get the most inspiration while I’m driving to work in the morning. I have a 40-minute commute into the city. I put my AirPods on my keychain so I’m able to listen to beats and write on the go. I have a select few friends I preview my music to. These friends give me the raw and uncut truths. I believe you really need that as an artist.
What do you hope the listener takes away from a Street Vendors song?
When someone hears my music number one I want to thank them for taking the time to listen. I put many of my life experiences into my music so I hope someone else can relate to it. Music is very personal to me. I hope they recognize me as a person that’s just like them. I work two jobs, I’m married, and music is a passion I’ve decided to pursue. Everyone has to have a passion for something.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
In the future I see myself making money off of my music. I don’t need the fame. If that comes, great. Every artist dreams of the day they can quit their day job and pursue their music full time. That’s exactly where I see myself. I don’t need to be rich. I’m already rich in other ways. I have a great family, a wife, and a home. Being successful in the music industry will just enhance those things.
Keep up with more of The Street Vendors story HERE.
