Daily Inspiration: Meet Javier Mendoza

Today we’d like to introduce you to Javier Mendoza

Hi Javier, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Pure heart and soul. That’s how you can best describe Hobo Cane. Born as Javier Alberto Mendoza in the state of Virginia to a Spanish mother and Mexican/American father, Javier’s love for music burned bright from a young age. He started his musical career joining Warner-Chappell as a staff writer in Miami, FL. There he spent his time writing tunes for mega pop sensations such as Enrique Iglesias, Juan David, Ricky Martin, Rosario and more. The ever-winding path of life took him to Saint Louis: City of Miles Davis, Tina Turner and Chuck Berry, where he saw musical success with his new following. In 2014 Mendoza moved to Music City, Nashville, TN where he is embarking on a project as Hobo Cane.

He has recently joined up with Miguel Cancino for a new project called Cane & Cancino. Cane & Cancino is a fresh and exciting Rock & Soul Band, with a Latin edge, that has recently emerged in the vibrant music scene of Nashville, Tennessee. Comprised of the talented singer-songwriter Hobo Cane and the skilled guitarist Miguel Cancino, this duo brings a unique and captivating sound to the stage.

Inspired by legendary artists such as James Brown, Led Zeppelin, Prince, Santana and Lenny Kravitz, Cane & Cancino infuse their music with elements of soul, rock, and funk. Their songs are a mesmerizing blend of rootsy rhythms, soulful melodies, and bluesy guitar riffs, creating a sonic experience that is both nostalgic and contemporary.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Cane & Cancino’s music is the fusion of different cultural influences. Hobo Cane, who has Spanish and American roots, and Miguel Cancino, who hails from Chile, bring their diverse backgrounds to the forefront, resulting in a transnational sound that seamlessly combines Latin influences with soul and blues. This fusion adds a unique flavor to their music, making it both accessible and exotic to listeners.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The music business is never a smooth road. My biggest struggle was the year after I signed my publishing deal with Warner Chappell. Soon after I found out my manager was using my career to benefit his own personal business dealings. I ended terminating my management contract with him, which he sued me for, and later I counter sued him for illegal dealings. In the end I was able to part from him, but not before he and his attorney black listed me to many labels that were interested in signing me. Fortunately I was able to pick myself up and continued a successful independent career that continues currently.

It has also been a challenge not really focusing only on one genre. I am a writer and love all kinds of music. I love rock, soul, funk, pop, folk, whether in Spanish and English and hate boxing things into only one thing. However in the industry it is difficult to survive when you cannot be defined, but I find that to be a compliment.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a completely independent artist, who now is happy to also be working with Miguel Cancino on this new project Cane & Cancino as well as my continued solo career. I write, compose, arrange, record, perform, produce, promote, manage my entire career. I am mostly known for my skills as a songwriter and vocalist. Although over the years I’ve become a good guitarist. I am most proud of being able to successfully make a living making music for 25 years. I think what sets me apart from others is my ability to write equally in Spanish and English, and dominating both languages equally, and being able to maintain my artistic integrity and honesty in my music.

Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I design, create, edit most of my ads, posters and videos. I also draw and paint, and although I cannot play much anymore due to my knee injuries, I was a semi pro soccer player. I am starting a Spanish conversation club. I love to talk about Spain and my culture.

Although most people think I’m from Spains, I was born in Fairfax, VA. I’m a military brat and so was mostly raised in Spain and Germany.

I would also consider myself a family man. I love family and being with my children.

Contact Info:

•  Instagram: instagram.com/hobocane and instagram.com/canecancino
• Facebook: facebook.com/hobocane
• Youtube: youtube.com/hobocane and youtube.com/@canecancino