Ruben “Rappa” Aranda
Born December 25, 1993, and raised in Watts, California, Ruben “Rappa” Aranda is a West Coast recording artist, producer, songwriter, DJ, and entrepreneur whose story is rooted in transformation, creativity, and the evolution of Los Angeles sound.
Rappa built his reputation behind the boards, developing a signature style centered around hard-hitting West Coast drums, heavy 808s, melodic production, and the unmistakable Los Angeles slap. His career has connected him with artists and producers including 03 Greedo, Icewear Vezzo, Sada Baby, Boosie Badazz, 1Take Jay, Fenix Flexin, Whokid Woody, Larry Jayy, Official, DJ Flippp, and 808 Kartel, among others.
One of the defining chapters of his career was his creative relationship with 03 Greedo, with whom he developed the planned collaborative project 03 Rappa. Rappa's work was later highlighted by RESPECT. Magazine, which documented his Watts roots, production career, relationship with Greedo, and collaborations within the West Coast music scene.
Rappa is also credited as the producer and songwriter behind “Doin' Me” by GoGetta KB featuring 1Take Jay and GoGetta Essco, a record that went on to accumulate millions of streams and became one of the standout records in his production catalog.
Working alongside Santeezy, Rappa helped develop the Slapeton sound—a fusion of classic West Coast slaps and reggaeton that represents the multicultural energy of Los Angeles. Their work helped turn the sound into a growing movement within the city's music scene.
Rappa's journey extends far beyond music. After experiencing street life, gang culture, and multiple periods of incarceration, he made the decision to change the direction of his life and dedicate himself to music. Rather than allowing his past to define him, Rappa turned those experiences into motivation and creative fuel.
Today, Rappa operates through Its Rappa LLC, continuing to release music, produce records, collaborate with artists, and build his independent brand. His latest album, Now Or Neva, was featured in Apple Music's New Releases, marking another major milestone in his evolution from respected producer to established recording artist.
From Watts to the world, Rappa represents West Coast culture, resilience, and reinvention—using his past, his production, and his unique sound to build a legacy of his own.
Rappa — Watts to the World.
