Raised in Guarulhos City, São Paulo, Brazil, Vitor began listening to rap when he was only seven years old, writing songs and rhymes over beats for fun. Influenced by Eminem and the new school of Brazilian rap, he made his first love song at thirteen years old called ‘Amor Da Minha Vida’. Since then, he's never stopped writing, recording and producing with his studio partner Iuri Stocco from "Coisa Simples" Studio and DJ Stuart. With songs relating to love, friendship, family and perseverance, his first studio album ‘Cartas’ was released in April 2011 with acclaim. Now, at the age of seventeen, Vitor is bringing a fresh new style to Brazilian rap, on the strength of his second album ‘Só o Começo’, which has already garnered numerous awards. Determined to build on his momentum, Vitor has performed alongside influential artists such as Projota, Bonde da Stronda, Pentagono, Haikaiss, Thaíde, Art Popular, Inimigos da HP, Os Travessos and Edson e Hudson. Reporter Lily Clark recently caught up with Vitor to learn more about this intriguing young artist and what motivates him to create his music.

LILY: When did you first discover your love of music?
VITOR: I started small. My grandfather was a musician and my father always had this artistic voice so I’ve always lived in that environment. My passion grew each day. When I was seven years old, I started playing guitar and writing and I have never stopped. 

LILY: Your song 'Eu Rezo Por Nós' has been a big hit on radio for its third straight month. What was your initial reaction when you first heard your song playing on radio?
VITOR: It was very rewarding. Honestly, there was this feeling of accomplishment. I am eternally grateful for everything that has happened to me. My fans, my family, my team and God- I owe everything to them.

LILY: Was there a particular life experience that inspired you to write 'Eu Rezo Por Nós'? 
VITOR: There was no one particular experience, but I believe everyone has their moment of weakness and hope is what keeps us alive and whole. To face any kind of problem, the world needs more of that hope and that's why ‘I pray for us’ (Eu rezo por nós).

LILY: Would you say that the mood of your other songs is in the same vein as 'Eu Rezo Por Nós?
VITOR: I would say yes, but each song has a different shape and different point of view. Whenever I compose, it could be about my life, a particular fact or something that motivates me. All the songs are intended to bring positivity and hope to people around the world.

LILY: How would you characterize yourself as a musician? (ex. Down-to-earth, serious, fun-loving...)
VITOR: I believe that I am a musician who is improving every day, studying a lot, writing forms and flows. The approach has helped me to become better every day and is what I hope to continue to do. 

LILY: Did you come from a musical background? Are there other musicians in your family?
VITOR: Yes, my grandfather and my father. My grandfather is my biggest inspiration. I always saw him playing piano. He was also a composer and my father always played percussion. We played together and made music and that's a fond memory that I have. 

LILY: What do you find most rewarding about being a musician? What do you find most challenging?
VITOR: The fact that you can change people's lives, be it with a song, an attitude, or a verse, is more than rewarding. It keeps me alive. You hear people saying that your music changed their life and makes them happy. You bring love and peace to people through music and it is the best thing in the world. There is no real hard part when what you believe in and choose to pursue feels so right and so magical. 

LILY: Who are your role models in music?
VITOR: Eminem because of his life story and how he made ​​it happen. You feel the vibration and energy in his lyrics. And Justin Bieber because he is extremely talented, professional and a complete artist. They inspire me to do amazing things with the gift we have- music. 

LILY: What advice would you give to young, aspiring musicians out there who are unsure and need guidance?
VITOR: You have to have an ideal and above all, know what is right or wrong. In this profession, you face many temptations- money, fame, women, etc.- but they are fleeting things. You have to focus. Do music for you and not as something that can change your material lifestyle, but as something that can reach millions of people. Do not cling to a style, segment, or particular audience. Music is universal- there are no race or class differences when it comes to music. Do art, do what makes you feel good, have fun, and try to get other people to have fun, too. This is Vitor Vieira. 

LILY: Excellent advice! Thanks for taking time out to share your story. I wish you continued success and good luck!

© 2014 Greycastle News Corporation