By Catherine Sodano, Contributor
If you love the techno/electronic beats of house music pulsing through your veins, you are most likely familiar with Lucas Prata, responsible for 2004’s hit single “And She Said,” which was Number 1 on the Billboard Dance Airplay Chart for four weeks in a row. His music is best recognized as “house” music, a combination of Auto-Tune, electric beats, kick drums, and funk-infused synthesizers. Sports fans may recognize Prata’s songs as well; David Brody from Z100 re-wrote and edited “And She Said” and made it the New York Mets anthem.
“I actually love warming kids up to Lucas Prata’s music, getting them in the zone and letting them actually ‘feel’ the music,” says Hofstra student and dance teacher Melissa Vacek. “His songs naturally just want to make you get up and dance.
“Prata began his career in the music industry in 1994 as a dancer for George LaMond. Soon, he was singing on stage alongside LaMond as well. Growing up, he was inspired by New Kids on the Block. “I loved their melodies and catchy songs and huge concerts,” he says, revealing, “I used to dream about being the sixth New Kid just in case they needed and extra one. True story.”
Today, Prata takes pride in his ability to reach so many people with his music, and in beating Madonna on the Billboard Dance Airplay Chart.
Realizing that many Hofstra students hope to be famous musicians, Prata offers some suggestions. “Determination and confidence are key but you have to be willing to pay your dues,” he says. “There are a lot of sacrifices you have to make to really be focused in this business. Only the strong survive.”
Before he dies, Prata hopes to perform at the Grammys, have a number one hit across the world, and have a world tour.