Artist Profile: T.M.I.
Mexican-American artist Tlaloc Huerta Cuautle (better known as T.M.I.) sticks out like a sore thumb in a “Reggaeton-dominated,” Latin music industry. From recording music videos in the winter snow to funding his own shows independently, T.M.I. proves again and again that being from Wisconsin and the son of immigrant parents is the perfect combination to an already unique sound.
1) What is something you hope people take away from you as an artist when they listen to your music?
I hope that people can connect, feel my love, my emotions and have a different perspective on their feelings as I express mine with every song. Each song is a story of my love life—be it romantic-love or self-love. Those stories can teach lessons or help process feelings that others may also be confused about. I want people to feel, understand and express love.
2) What is your experience being a Mexican artist from Wisconsin and how do you navigate it within your work?
It’s difficult, but fulfilling. There’s a decent population of Latinos in Wisconsin, but nothing comparable to states like California or Texas. Being a Mexican artist from a state that has a minority population of Latinos allows me to be the trendsetter—the big fish in a small pond—and stick out like a sore thumb. With that being said, it is more difficult to find individuals who make art in the same language as me or take it as seriously as I do (since there aren’t as many “examples” of people doing it in our communities). All I can do is open doors while creating my own space so that other Latino artists can have it easier in the future.
3) What kind of impact do you hope to make on your community and the world as a lyricist?
The music is just the icing on the cake. After people listen to my music and lyrics, I hope that they can take a look at my journey plus the many failures it took to get to where I am. I would like to be the inspiration for many Latinos in my community, and the world, so that they can pursue their dreams in whatever field they choose.
4) Share 2-3 types of art you wish people were more aware of.
The first art that I wish people knew more about would be that of filmmaking on a budget. People get stuck on the idea of Hollywood, expensive equipment and famous actors—instead of realizing they have a perfectly capable camera in their pockets. This past year I’ve been able to make music videos on my iPhone 11 pro. And it’s amazing what some creativity combined with motivated individuals can do.
The art of collaboration is the second type. It’s “cool” to say you did it yourself; you definitely need to learn a lot of skills yourself to become a successful business. But collaboration is so much more beautiful. I’m very particular about who I collaborate with. However the few times I have collaborated, we have been able to create art I could've never done myself. It’s powerful.
(*Continue to follow T.M.I.’s journey as an independent artist @ 13TMI on all social media platforms—and keep your ears open for a new track each month. Midwest flow, Midwest love, Midwest vibes. #13TMI)