A.D.O.R. facts for kids

Eddy Castellanos Sr., known as A.D.O.R., is an American hip hop artist. He is famous for his hit songs like "Let It All Hang Out" (1992) and "One for the Trouble" (1994). Many artists have sampled "One for the Trouble" in their own music. A famous example is "Renegade Master" by Wildchild.

About A.D.O.R.

Early Life and Start in Music

Eddy Castellanos was born in Washington Heights, New York City. His father was a musician, and Eddy often went to his shows when he was little. When he was six, his family moved to Mount Vernon, New York. This town later became known for producing many rap stars.

In high school, A.D.O.R. met famous people like Sean Combs, Heavy D, Al B. Sure, and Pete Rock. He became very interested in hip hop. He chose the name A.D.O.R., which means "Another Dimension of Rhythm" and "A Declaration of Revolution."

Sean Combs, who worked at Uptown Records, helped A.D.O.R. by showing his demo tapes to record companies. Heavy D's DJ, DJ Eddie F, also helped him get a deal. In 1992, A.D.O.R. released his first song, "Let It All Hang Out," with Atlantic Records.

The Hit Song "Let It All Hang Out"

The music for "Let It All Hang Out" was made by A.D.O.R.'s old friend, Pete Rock. By 1992, Pete Rock was already a well-known producer. Many people today say he is one of the best in hip hop.

Music critics loved "Let It All Hang Out." Stanton Swihart from allmusic called it an "instant classic." He praised Pete Rock's "irresistible horn loop" and A.D.O.R.'s "tight flow" (meaning his rapping style). The song was a big hit in the summer of 1992. HipHopDX also called it a "certifiable Pete Rock classic." Reviewers also praised A.D.O.R.'s unique, high-pitched voice on the track.

Following Up with "One for the Trouble"

After "Let It All Hang Out" became popular, A.D.O.R. went on tour with big music acts. He also appeared on television. In 1994, he released his second single, "One for the Trouble." This song was produced by K-Def and the famous producer Marley Marl.

"One for the Trouble" included a vocal sound bite that said "back once again with the ill behaviour." This sound was sampled by Wildchild in his song "Renegade Master." It became even more famous when Fatboy Slim used it in his popular remix in 1998.

A.D.O.R. planned to release his first album with Atlantic Records, called The Concrete. However, in 1995, A.D.O.R. left Atlantic Records. The album was never officially released, possibly because of disagreements about creative choices.

Starting His Own Record Label: Tru Reign

In 1996, A.D.O.R. decided to start his own record company called Tru Reign Records. His first release on his new label was another song produced by Pete Rock, called "Enter the Center." This song was very successful.

Even though it was an independent release, "Enter the Center" sold very well and was played a lot on the radio. Critics thought it was just as good as "Let It All Hang Out." Some even said that both A.D.O.R. and Pete Rock had improved their skills. They noted that A.D.O.R.'s lyrics had become deeper and more mature.

A.D.O.R.'s first album for Tru Reign was called Shock Frequency (1998). It included his earlier singles. Besides Pete Rock and Marley Marl, other great producers like Diamond D and Clark Kent also worked on the album. Songs like "Shock to Bliss," "Shock Frequency," and "From the Concrete" were highlights. Reviewers felt the album had a classic 1992 hip hop sound, which they liked.

Later Albums and Music

In 2000, Tru Reign Records made a deal with Nile Rodgers' company, Sumpthing Distribution. By this time, Tru Reign also had other artists like K The Terrorbull and Cristal Lane. A.D.O.R. released his album Animal 2000 that year.

After a few quiet years, A.D.O.R. returned in 2003 with a collection of old songs called Classic Bangerz, Vol. 1. Then, in 2005, he released an album of new music called Signature of the Ill. Critics liked both albums. They noted that A.D.O.R.'s music still focused on fun and a smooth rapping style. In 2008, he released Tru Jewelz and Videotape.

Discography

• The Concrete (Atlantic, 1994)
• Shock Frequency (Tru Reign, 1998)
• Animal 2000 (Tru Reign, 2000)
• Classic Bangerz, Vol. 1 (Tru Reign, 2003)
• Signature of the Ill (Tru Reign, 2005)
• Tru Jewelz and Videotape (Tru Reign, 2008)
• A D.O.R. 'Renegade ReMixes" ( Weapons Music 2023 EP )
• A.D.O.R. "Young World Mixes" ( Weapons Music EP 2023 )
• A.D.O.R. "Catch The Wave" ( Tru Reign Records Maxi-Single 2024 )