Cuban-American rapper Pitbull wants to start a 'rebelution'

THE Collins Cobuild dictionary defines a pit bull as "a very fierce kind of dog", before adding: "Some people train pit bull terriers to fight other dogs."

While Cuban-American rapper Pitbull won't be fighting other dogs, he will be bringing the "fierce" when he comes to town for a one-night performance at Fort Canning Park.

"There's a whole lot of energy in the show, a lot of different music from different parts of the world. It's a whole lot of fun so hopefully fans can come down and have a good time," he said over the phone from Miami.

Pitbull was born Armando Christian Perez, and adopted his moniker because pit bull terriers are "too stupid to lose", he said in a interview early in his career.

This dogged determination can also be found in his latest album, Rebelution, which he said is in part a reflection of his life.

"My music has a lot to do with my life," he explained. "I don't put up no shields. I am who I am and I love it ... I hope to motivate people through my music."

As for the album title, Pitbull said it is not only a nod to his parents' life in Cuba under the Fidel Castro and Fulgencio Batista administrations, but it's a combination of two ideas.

"The 'rebel' part is about me - I've been fighting for my music in the industry; and also 'evolution' - it's about growing and trying new ways of making new music."

You've been doing this for a while. Does anything still surprise you?

You know, travelling the world, you can see how powerful music is. The people may not understand what I'm saying, but they're vibing and having a good time. I expect a lot of energy and a lot of people just losing their minds, man. That to me, is what it's all about.

What's the best thing about being Pitbull?

I think this world is a blessing. You know, to be creative with music, to have new ideas. That's the most exciting thing - that I can go to different parts of the world and see everything that it has to offer.

Is there a worst thing?

You have to be real careful about what you say and what you do, because people always got their eye on everything you do. But I'm a crazy guy anyway, I don't give a f***, so f*** it.

How long do you want to keep on doing this?

Only God knows, man. I love music, I love making music and I think music keeps you young. I'm going to keep doing this until the wheels on my wheelchair fall off.