Hip-Hop's Latino Connection

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Paul Rodriguez
Words: Esteban Duran

Although it would be easy to follow in his famous father’s footsteps (his pops is best known for his role in “The Original Latin Kings of Comedy”), California native Paul Rodriguez, Jr., 22, is using his feet to carve out his own career – one ramp at a time.

Rodriguez excels in the genre of street skating, which uses environmental objects such as stair rails, curbs and benches as launching pads for tricks. He won the gold medal in the event at the 2009 X Games and won first place in the AST Dew Tour in 2008. He has also appeared in three of the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater games: Tony Hawk’s Underground, Tony Hawk’s American Wasteland and Tony Hawk’s Project 8. Here Paul Rodriguez, Jr. tells us why he chose to create his own path.

Why did you choose to be a skater instead of following your dad’s career path?

He could’ve opened up a lot of doors for you!

That’s exactly why, man! I didn’t want to be an actor because it was being handed to me. I don’t wanna be 30 and be like, “Alright, I didn’t do shit for myself.” I randomly found something that I love doing and happen to be good at. Now I’m getting paid for it, and I did it all myself.

What made you get into skating?

I just saw a lot of kids from school skating, so I would stay after school hours and watch them. Then I got a lot of money one Christmas and went out and bought my first skateboard.

Any broken bones or injuries?

Nah, I’ve been pretty fortunate. I haven’t broken a bone yet, but I have had a couple of sprained ankles and a bunch of bruises.

How’s the pay?

Well, basically, skateboarding is a multi-billion-dollar industry. So I guess it’s great [Laughs].

How did you get the Nike deal?

Oh, man, that was crazy. Basically a friend of mine worked at a skate shop and knew a rep over at Nike. They wanted to reach out to me, so he set up a meeting. We kicked it, and they eventually flew me down to Portland and worked out a deal. It was wonderful.

How much control did you have on the design?

A lot. They won’t put anything out if I don’t like it. They are really talented. Most times they come in with designs that I approve right away.

What other endorsements do you have lined up?

Well, other than Nike sneakers and clothing, I have endorsement deals with Plan B, Hubba Wheels, Silver Trucks, and Amp’d Mobile.

What kind of music do you listen to?

I listen to a lot of hip-hop. My favorite artists are Nas and Tupac. And I like listening to Young Jeezy, Fat Joe, and Lil’ Wayne.