salamat kay Joseph Atilano! :)
The Gloc-9 and Francis M connection
by Joseph R. Atilano
His lyrical flow, precision and enunciation as a rapper are impeccable. These qualities have made Gloc-9 the most recognized and popular rapper currently in the country tracing back from his beginnings as an underground rapper to becoming a celebrated member of pioneering gangsta rap group “Death Threat”. Gloc-9 started out in the mid 90’s, at a time when the talent pool of local rappers in the country was packed with favorite rappers and rap groups with the likes of Masta Plann, Denmark, BB Clan and others. During those years, Gloc-9’s name wasn’t that “heavy” and respected like his other contemporaries because he was still establishing himself and he was yet to fully discover the range of his talent. Eventually he was able to branch off on his own and build a strong and lasting relationship with none other than the “Master Rapper”, “The Man from Manila” –the legendary FRANCIS M.
We have heard stories, accounts from people who knew Francis M on a personal basis and interviews of how generous of a man he was in giving valuable advice, mentoring young talent and sharing his own seeds of wisdom. That was the kind of person Francis M was–selfless in nurturing young talents who had potential. Gloc-9 was but one of the many Francis M has guided throughout his professional life.
Gloc-9’s long journey to becoming the artist he is now is truly admirable and inspiring in its own right. His rewards came because of his patience. It was more than the proverbial “pot of gold at the end of rainbow”. It is something I sensed he was working hard to achieve and that is–building his own legacy.