Toby Love

Toby Love wants to revolutionize Latin pop music with Crunkchata, his fusion of Bachata, Hip Hop and RnB. The South Bronx native insists he doesn't want to dis the people of the Dominican Republic with his radio-friendly sancocho though what he does want is no less audacious: to become the Latin Michael Jackson of the South Bronx.

Known as Octavio Rivera to his mom and dad, the 22 year-old Love was born in The Bronx and learned Spanish from his Dominican neighbors: the future members of Aventura. United by similar backgrounds and interests, he eventually joined the syrupy bachata group as a backup singer. But six years later, the "soldier wants to be a general."

On his new eponymous debut album, Love commands attention, sounding like a cross between Juan Luis Guerra and R. Kelly. The album is a showcase for his silky voice as he glides from Spanish to English lyrics over current beats. On the street savvy “We got it” he swaps lines with reggeatonero Voltio while his current single Tengo Un Amor, is also featured on the album as a pumped up remix featuring Rakim & Ken-Y. Rapper KP da Moneymaker, and Aventureros Judy Santos and Max Agente also guest. While these collaborations may get his music on more speakers, it's the simple and heartfelt piano ballad "Momma Song" that will get his new fans where it counts.

Toby will be spreading his bachata Love in November when he embarks on a tour of the Dominican Republic and the U.S..