By Carlotta Mohamed
Robert Torres is a Latin hip-hop artist who writes and raps positive music that inspires, uplifts, and motivates young people.
The 45-year-old South Jamaica artist, known as “Sabor Latino” in the Latin American community, is also an author. Torres released his third book titled, “125 Quotes Gathered From My Life Observations,” in May. Prior to publishing his recent book, Torres has penned and published two previous books: an autobiography titled “Sabor Latino: My Life” (2015); and “Sabor Latino: Mis Grandes Canciones y Poemas” (2017).
“I want readers to take away the importance of never giving up in life,” said Torres. “I want them to exercise their talents, be productive members of society, and for the youth to value education and their parents.”
At a young age, Torres loved listening to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Dr. Cornel West, and so many others who inspired him to write his own book of quotes last year in the fall. The project took about a year and a half to complete.
“125 Quotes Gathered From My Life Observations,” includes five chapters: “Believe in Yourself,” “Everyone Has a Story to Tell,” “Lead by Example,” “Start Creating Your Legacy Now,” and “Forgive The Ones Who Have Done You Wrong.”
Torres’ book stems from specific situations he has encountered in his personal life, which gave him the motivation to pursue his hopes and dreams. He credits writing and music as his savior that has allowed him to hone his craft and create a platform encouraging others, especially the Latin American youth, to become dedicated citizens and to lead by example in their communities.
“A teacher once said some cruel words to me about my Latino background, and I remember going home and crying about it,” said Torres. “As I was crying, I started to write a poem titled ‘I Am Special No Matter What.’ That day after writing the poem, I felt so much better, and that is when a new author was born on that night.”
In 2019, Torres will be releasing his fourth book, titled “My Alma Mater: Lehman College,”which will prepare students for challenges ahead in graduate school; and a fifth book titled “You Are a Beautiful and Special Person.”
While writing and creating music, Torres completed his master’s degree in education from Lehman College in January 2017. He now works as a preventive case planner for a children’s welfare agency at a New York City school.
His latest single slated for release “MI Padre” (My Father) is dedicated to his father, who was a fourth-grade teacher and is an inspiration to Torres and his brother.
“No matter where you came from you can be successful in life,” said Torres. “I’m from Jamaica, Queens, being a leader and exercising change in the world. I love giving back to the community, and I know I’ll be leaving behind a legacy with these books that will inspire others to believe in themselves and to also create positive change.”
Reach reporter Carlotta Mohamed by e-mail at cmoha
