418 Resurrecting Freestyle – CEO Gino Caporale Tells All!

Find out how record label owner Gino Caporale is at the forefront with fresh releases, live performances, and a dedication to keeping Freestyle alive in this exclusive interview.

1 — Gino, can you tell us about the origins of 418 Freestyle and what inspired you to start the label initially?

I grew up a DJ in Philadelphia in the mid-’80s, when Freestyle was very popular. I was one of the first DJs in my city to play the music in clubs and on Philly radio.

After my success with 418 Music, my dance label, I felt it was time to launch a sub-label featuring new Freestyle music. I’ve always had a soft spot for this genre; it makes people happy and brings you back to your teenage years.

2 — Freestyle music has a rich history. How do you see its evolution from when you first started the label to now?

Since we started 418 Freestyle in 2019, it’s been amazing to see the genre’s resurgence over the past five years. Both new and established artists are releasing EPs that are charting on iTunes and streaming well on Spotify.

3 — What motivated you to help bring back Freestyle, and what does this comeback mean to you personally?

To be honest, I noticed live shows featuring legendary Freestyle artists like TKA, Cynthia, Stevie B, and Lisa Lisa popping up in big arenas across the US and overseas. The credit for that goes to Fever Records founder and legend, Sal Abbatiello, along with a few other promoters.

When I saw these shows selling out, my mind started racing, and I wanted to be part of it. I felt that starting a label was the way to get involved. I love this music, and it was personal to me to try and make an impact.

4 — How has the digital transformation in the music industry affected the way you manage 418 Freestyle?

Yes, 100%. I’ve been trying to drive the importance of streaming into everyone’s head—from fans to artists and even other labels. At 418, we aim to promote and operate like a major label.

When I left Freestyle in the ’90s, it was all about vinyl and maxi-singles. When I came back, it was MP3s, WAV files, and DJs live on Facebook. We’re very analytical and savvy when it comes to promotion.

5 — What role do you think social media and streaming platforms play in the resurgence of Freestyle music?

It played a huge role in the resurgence of Freestyle. Let’s remember that Freestyle never really died—only on the radio—but the amazing fan base kept it alive. A few people, like Willie Valentin of Artistik Recordings, also kept the genre going by releasing music.

Now, fast forward to 2024, and Freestyle labels and many artists are doing amazing things on TikTok and streaming platforms.

6 — Is the label considering exploring other musical styles or promoting its artists through live shows?

Yes, we currently have labels such as 418 Music and 418 Latin. As for 418 Freestyle, we are now hosting our own live shows on the East Coast (Freestyle Forever Concert Series) to help promote our roster and bring bigger artists to Philly and New Jersey.

7 — Are there any new artists that you’re particularly excited about under this new era of 418 Freestyle?

Yes! Nelson Rego is one, but to be honest we’ve been bringing back artists from the 90s who maybe didn’t get their flowers back then but are on fire right now such as Nyasia, Denine, and April. I feel we are just getting started and the best years are ahead of us.

8 — Can you give us a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or releases that fans can look forward to?

We just released a new track by Nyasia a few months ago, as well as Denine & Cynthia’s “Change On Me.” Both tracks hit the #1 spot on the iTunes Top 200 Dance album chart. Coming up, we are releasing our first compilation, as well as new singles by Lizzie Perez, Liz Morel, Lia Marquis, and Elissa.

9 — What advice would you give to aspiring artists who want to break into the Freestyle genre today?

To take it seriously, stay true to the genre, ignore the drama, and make quality music that will help the genre.

10 — Lastly, what do you hope listeners take away from the music and artists represented by 418 Freestyle?

I want them to know we care. Not just about our label, but about the entire genre. We are only going to release great music. Our artist will be a professional, AND WE ARE HERE TO STAY!

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