Avila Brothers
A Rollercoaster Ride to Grammy Heights
The Avila Brothers' Journey in Music
A Musical Family and an Early Introduction to Instruments
IZ recalls his early days, growing up in a household infused with music. Their father, a keyboard player, would rehearse with his band in their garage, stirring up an irresistible symphony that drifted into their adjoining bedroom. Sleepless nights led to a fascination with instruments, with IZ gravitating towards the drums and Bobby finding solace in the piano. Their father's relentless passion for music and a home filled with the best of musical gear allowed them to experiment and learn together, setting the tone for their future success.
Tasting Success: From Playing in 21 and Over Clubs to Working with Jam and Lewis
Their father's intuitive understanding of music culture proved a critical ingredient in their success. He would occasionally sneak them onto the stage to play during his band's break time. Before they knew it, they were playing in 21 and over clubs, where they learned to embrace the audience's energy and enjoyment.
Bobby's talent did not go unnoticed. He was signed to RCA at the age of 13 and soon found himself touring with New Kids On The Block, playing to sold-out crowds. This early exposure to the limelight paved the way for future triumphs. IZ, too, persevered through life's roadblocks and followed in Bobby's footsteps. An accidental meeting with Terry Lewis from the legendary producer team of Jam and Lewis became their bridge to becoming successful producers.
Navigating Challenges and Staying Committed to the Passion
However, their journey was not without struggles. The brothers were candid about the hardships that come with devoting oneself to music. Bobby pointed out that pursuing a career in music is challenging as there's no roadmap or specific qualifications like other professions. Nevertheless, their love for music and unwavering commitment has seen them through these challenges.
Bobby compares their journey to the development of their innovative product, the Eyeball. It was a gift that they saw as the next innovation in the music industry. Born out of a process of trial and error, just like their music, the Eyeball is a testament to the dedication they put into their craft. It illustrates that success doesn't come overnight. It's the result of years of hard work and persistence.
Beyond Music: Revolutionizing the Audio Industry with Akai and Beats by Dre
In addition to their musical prowess, the Avila Brothers were instrumental in rebranding iconic music product companies like Akai and Beats by Dre. For Akai, they worked on reviving the legendary drum machine, the MPC 60. They collaborated with experts, engaged in intensive R&D, and incorporated feedback from artists and producers to finally recreate a modern drum machine that lived up to Akai's legacy.
Their involvement with Beats by Dre stemmed from a long-term relationship with Bruce Forat, a pioneer in the tech sector. They were introduced to Noel Lee, the president of Monster cable, and soon found themselves helping Monster transition from a cable manufacturing company to a brand synonymous with music. They played a crucial role in designing, testing, and marketing the Beats headphones, changing the culture of the audio industry.
The Journey Continues...
Through the highs and lows, successes and setbacks, the Avila Brothers have remained unwavering in their commitment to music. Their journey is an inspirational tale that reminds us of the power of perseverance, the importance of passion, and the impact of hard work. With their unique blend of talent and tenacity, it's evident that the Avila Brothers' journey in music is far from over, and we can't wait to see what they'll accomplish next.