San Antonio's anima Vesta

Author: Maxwell Pugh

Anima Vesta is 19 years old, and began rapping professionally 18 months ago. At times, Anima has questioned whether or not this is the right path, but God has shown him the way multiple times. From linking with talented producers, places to record, and a strong group of supporters, he has come to realize that one day he will be recognized for his music. Anima has been through some rough times and has sworn to do whatever it takes to push himself forward and never go back. 


Where are you from? Have your surroundings shaped you in a creative sense, and in what way?
I was born in Northbend, Oregon but raised in San Antonio. I can't really say my surroundings greatly impacted my style. It has in a way because it's my home and I wanna get it on the map. For me it's more of a motivation.

Whats your background like? Where do you stand on the music scene in your area?
Well, I was raised by my mom and grandmother for most my life. When I was 9 my little brother was born and I helped raise him while my mother worked. At 13 my step father came into my life and helped my mother and moved us to Cibolo. When I was 16 my baby sister was born. I'm not a big deal yet but when people hear my music they tend to like it. So I feel like I'm on the rise.

What did you start doing first, producing or rapping? How did you get started?
I feel in love with music at age ten and started writing in the 10th grade. I've only ever rapped and I started being able to record thanks To Anto and Evin the Giant. Anto and I went to high school together. He saw me writing after school one day and asked, "What are you writing?" He told me about a friend he rapped with. That happened to be Evin and when I went to his house we wrote a song together. It was my first song and I was off beat. From then on I've been rapping.

Do you have anyone that you consider your mentor? How has their help or advice shaped you?
I don't have a mentor actually. I've gotten advice from friends who have rapped longer than me though.

What is one experience in life that, without it, you wouldn’t be the artist you are today?
I think experiencing homelessness shaped me. It drives me to never truly struggle again and to live comfortably. Me being homeless lead to me meeting Anto and Evin.

What do you hope to accomplish this year?
I wanna get my music on more platforms and release more music this year. Possibly release an album.

What does your work aim to say?
I aim to tell stories about what I've been through and what I've seen my friends go through.

Who are your biggest influences and what do you like about them the most?
J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, MF DOOM, Mick Jenkins, XXXTentacion, Earl Sweatshirt and Joyner Lucas are the ones that immediately come to mind. Lyricism, flow, rhyme scheme, creativity, versatility, perspective and story telling. They all are very gifted in one of those skills if not multiple. I wanna achieve those skills to the highest mark.

How would you describe your own style?
I'm definitely a backpack rapper. I have 2 journals and pencils on me at all times.

In what ways has your newest music changed from when you first started?
I've improved in writing, wordplay and story telling. I'm no where near where I wanna be.

What are the main inspirations for the lyrics you write?
My biggest inspirations are are what I've seen and been through and my interest.

What would be your dream venue in which to perform?
I wanna perform in Madison Square Garden one day. It's a huge goal for me.

What’s a song you have stuck in your head these days?
One Beer and Potholderz by MF DOOM are on repeat for me right now.

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