LYNN — For Ariel Sanchez, beatmaking isn’t just a hobby — it’s the next chapter in a lifelong creative journey rooted in rhythm, movement, and self-expression. Now, the Lynn resident and longtime community volunteer is sharing his craft on a national stage in a competition hosted by famed producer Timbaland.
Sanchez, who moved to Lynn with his mother in 1990, grew up immersed in the city’s community spaces. He spent nearly every day after school at the Boys and Girls Club, which he calls his “second home.” Today, he gives back as an assistant coach with East Lynn Little League, mentoring local youth the way older kids once looked out for him.
“I’ve always liked to entertain,” he said. “Whether it was dancing, playing the piano, or just imagining myself on a stage, I loved performing.”
That instinct kicked in early. One day, as a child, Sanchez watched a televised talent show on the iconic Spanish-language variety program Sábado Gigante and saw a young breakdancer spin on his head. “It blew my mind,” he said. “I didn’t even know what breakdancing was — I just knew I wanted to do that.”
Soon after, he began training with a breakdancing crew called Lords of Illusions, practicing on Saturdays at the YMCA with dancers of all ages. “We were learning by watching videos of competitions,” Sanchez said. “There weren’t formal lessons — we were just mimicking moves and figuring things out.”
The headspin became his signature move — and it wasn’t easy. He credits a dancer named Joey for showing him the trick. “Joey told me: master the headstand first. Walk in a circle with your legs out, use your hands for balance, and then build speed,” Sanchez said. “Eventually, you’ll get to the point where you can let go and just spin.”
That foundation in rhythm naturally transitioned into music production. A friend introduced him to FL Studio, a digital audio workstation. Without formal training, Sanchez taught himself how to compose beats by ear, experimenting with melodies and rhythms. “Breakbeats were easy for me to pick up because of dancing,” he said. “But really, I let the beat tell me where it wants to go.”
His influences — Dr. Dre and Timbaland — helped shape his approach. “They were always my favorite producers growing up,” Sanchez said. “I’d try to create something in their style, but eventually I found my own.”
Three weeks ago, Sanchez discovered an online Beat Making Competition hosted by Timbaland and powered by Orbiiit. The eight-week contest offers a $30,000 grand prize, a one-on-one studio session with Timbaland, and a chance to be featured on his next album. The top five finalists will all earn a spot on the project, and total prize money totals $50,000.
But for Sanchez, the contest means more than just a shot at recognition.
The competition also serves as a fundraiser for the Adopting Courage Foundation, a nonprofit that supports adoption efforts. Public votes determine which contestants advance, and while there’s a free vote option, supporters can also buy vote packages, with proceeds going directly to the foundation.
“It makes the whole thing more meaningful,” Sanchez said. “You’re not just voting for me — you’re helping a cause that supports children and families.”
Sanchez is currently ranked first in his group. Each week, contestants with the fewest votes are eliminated. From an initial field of more than 300, only ten finalists will remain by the end of April. Sanchez is still in the running — and still adjusting to the spotlight.
“I’ve been making beats for years, but I never really put them out there,” he said. “This was the push I needed. I’m getting older, and I figured if I don’t take a shot now, maybe I never will.”
For others dreaming of a creative path, he offers simple advice.
“Start with what you love, keep practicing, and don’t wait for permission,” he said. “Eventually, an opportunity will show up — and if you’ve been putting in the work, you’ll be ready.”
You can support Lynn’s very own Ariel Sanchez in the competition and cast a vote online.
