Theres a new Boriqua diva on the rise and this quintessential nu yorician is every bit as talented as she is sexy. As if her birth name alone wasnt enough to attract attention, Aphrodite Venus Mercado, better known to a growing number of underground fans as Aphro, is taking her Latin style and musical influences to places others have barely visited.
Influenced by her West Indian and Puerto Rican... background, Aphro displayed a distinct ear for music at an early age. "I learned to play the congas when I was 5." Her musical influences stretch far and wide from Al Green, Portishead and Gloria Estafan to Marvin Gaye and the Brand New Heavies. This comes as no surprise as one listens to Aphro enchants you on such tracks as Way To My World. Her many styles include singing, rapping, dancing and playing the congas.
In listening to Aphros music, one immediately recognizes what is so special about her. Her sound, which combines hip-hop, jazz, and funk with a salsa twist, creates this rhythmic fusion, that, when thrown into the same pot and stirred by Aphros vocals, creates a sound that is truly unique. Growing up in the Bronx and drawing inspiration from every day life, Aphro keeps her music real, evidenced by her no nonsense lyrics in Extasy. She also remains true to those who influenced her along the way. "I bring a Latin feel to my music. I also blend my music with the things I grew up with around my way, like hip-hop, reggae and jazz."
As diverse as her own neighborhood, this multi-talented songstress intends to set the pace for her listeners. With plans to inspire others through her music, Aphro encourages listeners to let the music move you and never give up on your dreams.
Doing her part to give-back, Aphro plans to establish a non-profit after school program for teens in the Bronx, in addition to operating Aphro Pix Production.
As a new artist, Aphro is excited about her music career and the direction that its taking. Among list of industry credits includes cameos in various music videos by Salt N Pepa, Naughty by Nature, Freak Nasty and Kid N Play. Her vocals can be heard on New Jack City Sound Track and Naughty by Natures Ó.P.P.´ With seven songs completed on her bilingual project, Aphros debut promises to be a strong one.
