On the heels of his recently released viral video “Stayin’ Live,” Fortunato keeps the momentum going with his new video “DiaTribe.” The new track features production from Chuck Strangers, a member of New York’s Pro Era label and best known for his work with Joey Bada$$. It also showcases emerging Hamilton, ON artist Good Apollo, who’s been creating a buzz online for his work with his production partner Spaceship Nick.
“I keep trying to find ways to uplift young artists in Canada” says Fortunato.
“They’re the future and when I was coming up in Toronto, the OGs offered little guidance. I’m trying to break the cycle.”
Good Apollo caught the ear of Chuck Strangers online. “He had a really unique style so I sent a beat pack,” said Strangers.
“He told me he got a feature for one of the beats and that’s when I heard Fortunato, he killed it!”
The next step was creating visuals, Fortunato didn’t hesitate to enlist one of his go to directors Patrick Younger of RA Photo + Video.
“Since Built For This, he’s just been getting better and better” said Fortunato. “Patrick has done some of my most creative videos and iconic photos, and being a former rapper himself gives him insight that most video guys lack.”
Shot on location in Hamilton, the video incorporates graffiti culture and also plays tribute to a city that is often overlooked in Canadian hip-hop.
“Steel City is my home,” says Good Apollo.
“A lot of great artists have come from here, I just want to carry the torch.”
“DiaTribe” is part of a five song EP from Good Apollo called The Art Of Words coming this fall.
The single was recently added to HipHopCanada’s official Spotify playlist, Canadian Fresh.
You can follow @iamFortunato and @GoodAppoloKid on Instagram.