By: Todd “DG” Davis
Rapindustry.com

 

A.D.O.R., the artist behind the 1992 classic ‘Let It All Hang Out’, produced by the legendary Pete Rock, passed away on Jan 1. While the cause of death remains unknown, let his legacy shine through his music. He was the essence of hip hop’s golden era. Keep his family and loved ones in your prayers. RIP A.D.O.R.

We recently caught up with the legend.  “So clap your hands, Hip Hop fans For Another Definition Of the Rhythm is what you demand…”

 

 

 

Born in Washington Heights, raised in Mount Vernon, New York, Eddy Castellanos Sr., professionally known as A.D.O.R. – an acronym meaning both “Another Dimension of Rhythm” and “A Declaration of Revolution” – is most famously known for his Pete Rock laced classic, “Let It All Hang Out,” and its equally infectious follow-up, “One for the Trouble,” produced by Marley Marl. Sadly, as people everywhere were ringing in a brand new 2025, word quickly spread of A.D.O.R.’s sudden, untimely passing on January 1st. At press time, no cause of death has yet to be determined.  

First things first, August 11th 2023 marked the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop — What exactly does that mean to and for you?      

It means a lot to me in a few ways. One is…it’s the music and the life and the culture I grew up with almost my entire existence with being from the Mount Vernon / Bronx area. From the beginning of true Hip Hop life, that’s why I am built differently. And, my sound is a real essence of true Hip Hop from New York!

To quote the late, great The Notorious B.I.G., “You never thought that Hip Hop would take it this far!” — Was this something that you ever could’ve imagined?       

No, I wasn’t…just wanted to make my music. I didn’t even care about making Real Money, or being able to raise a family with my music. Which I’ve been able to do; I was gonna be happy just living in a studio apartment down in New York City somewhere, just being able to be free. I have the freedom just to make my music.

What are some of your fondest, most stand-out moments / memories during your lengthy tenure in this thing called Hip Hop?      

There’s been a lot! One though that sticks with me is when I was at and supposed to do the show that was in the movie ‘Notorious’ about B.I.G.. I was on the bill with him. But after he did “Party and Bullshit,” they told me not to go on. And, I was a headliner and I really wanted to still perform. Doing Yo! MTV Raps. And then, being on ‘In Living Color’ were great memories. And, a lot of things…touring Europe, shows I did with Tupac and B.I.G. and headlining The Ritz in NYC, where everyone was there to see me! Like 10,000 strong!

That said, what are your future plans and / or goals for the 2025 season?    

I am really active right now, especially with my Iconic “Renegade Master” Vocals! I have new records coming out as well. Stay Tuned! A.D.O R. Stays vibing for the people with Bangerz!

 

 

Switching gears here, what exactly do you want people to get from your music? 

A Soul Sonic Vibe that moves their Mind, Body and Soul always ?

On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of Hip Hop?    

I have to be, we are celebrating 50 (plus) years and I am a part of that history and future! The only thing I don’t like is the internet has made so many people think they are Artists because it’s easy to put music out now! 

What do you feel has and will continue to be the key to your longevity?  

My Genuine Vibe and True Talent that God blessed me with! A.D.O R. Is Forever !

Do you have any other outside / additional (future) aspirations, maybe even completely away from entertainment?      

I really enjoy spending time with my Children! We are very close, and They are truly my biggest Blessing in Life!

What’s an average day like for you?  

There’s always something going on with my music…also, taking care of my kids! Watching the Yankees, Jets and Knicks…and, doing some fishing!

Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…       

I was never big on Social Media; actually just got on IG because my agents wanted me to! I always just like to be a vibe, and not in front of everyone’s face all the time! It’s cool how my fans feel if I respond to them or like a post they made about me! Real cool. 

What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?    

I love the freedom I have been able to achieve by the success of my music over decades…the least thing is how I have made some pretty significant contributions to music and culture for decades in many ways, and I am not appreciated (or) recognized for it as much as I should be!

What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?      

It’s not an easy road, but if it’s true to your heart and you truly feel you can give something to the people that is special, then go for it and be prepared to make sacrifices that might not pay off!

Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?

Hopefully still chilling, dropping good music for the people!

Lastly, isn’t currently embattled music mogul Diddy largely responsible for helping you in getting signed? And, have you and he remained in touch?

He really was! He really saw something in me and I spent a lot of time with him, and I made the choice to sign with Eddie F to work with Pete Rock because He was getting busy with B.I.G. and I thought I was going to be put on the side with him. But, he actually came to me and asked me why I signed with Eddie F when he had things in the works for me!? Don’t know what might (have) been if I stayed with Puff? But, I made some great music and achieved a lot with the decision I made, so no regrets!

Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention?         

Nah. Thanks for your time, and recognition of me!