In this episode, we hear from Iliana Chino Hernandez, aka “Mz. Gatiz”, a Chicana rapper from Brooklyn, New York. 

Mz. Gatiz talks about her childhood, from seeing her parents struggle to make it in the United States to witnessing the poor living conditions of her family back in Mexico. She talks about how her parents were so focused on working that they would often leave her with nannies, which led to her being raised by other adults around her. Mz. Gatiz shares how, as a result of this, she was introduced to alcohol and the club scene at 11 years old. She also talks about being forced to assume adult responsibilities at an early age. By the age of 13 she was working, and at times was in charge of taking care of her younger sisters. Mz. Gatiz recounts holding back tears and parts of her life because of not wanting to feel weak and/or create tension within her family. She describes how despite all of this she found a space to express herself through music.

Mz. Gatiz talks about enjoying nature and being inspired by other singers such as Gloria Trevi. She talks about the real struggles of being a rapper and a human being at the same time, and the lessons that have come with it. 

Be sure to connect with and support Mz. Gatiz on: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mzgatiz/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/MZGATIZ

Website: https://mzgatizny.com/