For Robert Castano musically know as r.O.b (realist One breathin), hip-hop is more than a form of expression—it’s a lifeline. The ability to exhale his signature brand of polished poetry is, literally, a miracle.

Born with a breathing complication in 1987, doctors told Castano he’d never live past the age of nine. At 11 years old, his mother was sentenced to 20 years in prison for drug trafficking, uprooting Castano from his native Washington Heights to be raised in Philadelphia. It was in the City of Brotherly Love where Castano first fell in love with hip-hop, turning a budding interest for beats and rhymes into a lifelong pursuit.

While recovering from his third open heart surgery in 2006, he vowed that nothing would interfere with his love of music and if he recovered, he would dub himself, The Realist One Breathin’… r.O.b.

Taking stylistic—and survival—cues from his musical inspiration Kanye West, r.O.b. has diligently immersed himself in all genres of music. He has honed his now versatile flow, crafting sharp and inventive lyrics to illustrate his memories and struggles—from riding out life’s peaks and valleys, to reminiscing about ’90s era TV shows. He has a knack for storytelling and a fresh perspective as a charismatic young lyricist and potential leader of his generation.

On December 28th, 2010, r.O.b. released his debut mixtape, Higher Learning… The 90’s Tape, hosted by legendary producer and DJ, Don Cannon. The Higher Learning mixtape pays homage to the decade in which r.O.b.’s love for music began, taking listeners on a ten-track coast through the evolution of Hip‐Hop’s “Golden Era.” Starting in 1990 with A Tribe Called Quest’s “Bonita Applebum,” and ending in 1999 with a mashup of Queens’ finest emcees, r.O.b. uses classic beats as a backdrop for new beginnings.

At just 25 years old, this quiet storm counts his blessings. Robert “r.O.b.” Castano is proof that dedication and creativity will lead you toward your dreams, and that what doesn’t kill you will undoubtedly make you stronger.

Connect with r.O.b., watch his movements, and become a fan: FACEBOOK | TWITTER | BANDCAMP | WEBSITE

Check out r.O.b’s smash hit “HomeTown” RIGHT HERE

Be on the look out for r.O.b’s CircaXXV Mixtape dropping some time next month!