At the turn of the last century, there is said to have lived a man who rose up against oppression and took on the plight of his Pueblo, Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico. He was a Robin Hood figure who stole from the rich to give to the poor. He would hide in the greenery of the forest waiting for his next victim, those who victimized others. Hence, the warning to be weary of the “Bad Green” or “Malverde” came to be. This legendary tale has been passed down from generation to generation as it continues to inspire faithful believers to this day. One of those faithful believers is a Mexican MC who has taken on the namesake as a way of carrying on that legacy. La Leyenda Continua!!
Malverde, the artist, was born in the Coachella, California. Raised by his Mother and his Tata (Grandfather), both migrant field workers, he witnessed first hand the plight of his people. It was the guidance of his Mother and Tata that inspired him to rise above the temptation and obstacles that are everyday realities for Latino youth. Through his poetry that evolved into Hip-Hop Malverde narrates his life experiences. They range from social issues to street tales, from love gained to love lost. Fulfilling his Tata's wish, Malverde also pursued his education and has a B.A. in Political Science. Through his music Malverde hopes to continue the legacy of his Tata, of his Pueblo, of Malverde.
Malverde’s rise was sparked by the tremendous buzz his independent underground classic “Mi Palabra” created. Malverde was the first Spanish MC to be acknowledged by The Source Magazine in their “Off Da Radar” section. An honor shared with Hip-Icons Biggie Smalls and Eminem. The album was critically acclaimed and garnered the attention of major labels, ultimately landing him a record contract with Latin-Urban powerhouse, Machete/Universal. The release of “La Leyenda Continua” in 2008 is hailed as one of the most impactful albums of the burgeoning Spanish Hip Hop movement. Malverde was selected as MTV Tr3s’ "Descubre & Download" artist, their highest distinction for a new artist. It also earned him the 2008 Artist of the Year at the 1st Annual Latin Rap Conference Awards.
Over the past few years Malverde has worked diligently to build his base of support. He has performed at top venues nationally, from The Nokia Theatre and S.O.B’s in NYC to The Gibson Amphitheatre, The Forum and The Staples Center in L.A. He has shared the stage with the likes of Snoop Dogg, Cypress Hill, Don Omar, Wisin y Yandel, Tego Calderon, Daddy Yankee and Calle 13 to name a few. Malverde has been featured on MTV3, MUN2, SiTV, LATV, Univision and Telemundo among other major media/press. Malverde is also heavily involved with various Non-Profit organizations including VotoLatino.org. He has been featured on various forums and panels concerning social and political issues that affect the Latino community.
2012 has many new projects in store from Malverde. A much anticipated full length album with his live band project, Maleco Collective is set for Spring 2012 release. Their “Al Horizonte EP” received critical acclaim and set the stage for the next chapter in Malverde’s artistic journey. He will continue his pro-social endeavors with various non-profit and community organization. Expanding his art across many forms and genres we will continue to witness the growth of this true artist. La Leyenda Continua!!