We had the good fortune of connecting with Rolos Rios and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rolos, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
The strongest push forward comes from within/ If they can play you they will, and that goes for family, friends, business partners, spouse, EVERYBODY. Clear communication is vital when conducting business but is rare to find, prepare to set the example rather than see it. Always state your expectations as well as uphold them through your actions. Lastly, Sign on the dotted line! Assuming neither side has any thing to hide and your terms, expectations, and obligations are printed in black and white, there is NO reason a formal contract should not be in place. However, with that said, it is far from safe to sign any/every contract without personal examination.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Looking at the journey thus far I am a very proud of the reputation that I have established, the connections I’ve made, and the footprint I am embedding. Self awareness and discipline are key to taking any dream any where but passion is the secret ingredient. I have reached the level I am at purely from my respect of art and the love of my craft. It was very difficult at times because the entertainment business involves so many moving parts and large varieties of people that are highly unpredictable. In fact, in most cases there is some kind of stiff financial burden applied to the performers and hosts well before the event is even announced to the public. When it comes to navigating these types of situations I found it best to clearly state your boundaries and mission statements to yourself and refer to them daily. Some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned along the way include how to conduct your business instead of trying to conduct the business of others, controlling your consistency and practice, and self evolution. With every year I grow more confident the world will know that you can give away more than keep while remaining rich, righteous, and humble.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
For the best time in the city I would take them the to my favorite breakfast burrito shop. Then we would mountain bike hike bobcat ridge to an old cabin. After that, we would eat the towns best tacos from Vatos Tacos. It would seem the only thing to do last is to go The Coast in Old Town Fort Collins and enjoy some live music.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to a couple different people, groups, and organizations. Beginning with my mother Joyce Rios, who always exemplified resiliency without hesitation. Having my mother has been the best lesson in ambition this world has to offer, In addition, I cannot fail to mention Mary Limardo, Rob Tackett, and Joyce Wilson. Collectively they provided me with the intellectual resources, and unwavering support that indoctrinated me to pursue life free of intimidation. Not only do I feel that their help was exactly what I needed but more importantly was exactly when I needed it. My gratitude and shoutout are also dedicated to the groups Kind Dub and Pangea Music. Beyond music videos, performance opportunities, marketing, and classic collaborations they have directly been apart of my growth artistically and professionally. From referrals to rehearsal they have never let me down or lead me astray. Before I conclude I would also like to mention The Music District and the Bohemian Foundation that well deserve recognition in my story for more than enough reasons but most of all investment to community. One the biggest reliefs of my life has been to be apart of a community that promotes music and self employment.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rolosrios/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RolosRios

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCT_Y0W6PqAU_cdduBq5jUJQ

Image Credits
Cam Castro William Bell

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