From a tribe (Muwekma Ohlone) of only 5 remaining family lineages, the Native American artist's music represents a legacy of survival. As a producer-rapper, Cilo’s ability to blend the Bay Area bounce with meaningful lyrics leave him in an unparalleled space; merging fine art you'd find in the MOMA, with the familiarity of photos you find in your family's home. In 2023, Cilo created waves across the internet with his breakout single, Gotdamn. His project, LOS had amassed over 3M streams that year and he went on to tour as an opener with the legendary Curren$y. His reputation continued to grow as he built visual worlds through his music videos. In 2024, he followed with his EP, THE WAIT, which was featured on Fresh Finds and Fresh Finds Hip-Hop Best of 2024 list. He quickly showed his ability to grow behind some of his influences, from Kendrick Lamar and Outkast , to Steve Lacy and Frank Ocean. In 2025, Cilo took risks with the bold genre-hopping, WAITING FOR THE HEAT TO BURN. Politically charged and layered, the project sees Cilo at his most introspective.

After 5 years of living in Los Angeles, the Bay Area rapper returned to his hometown. Much of his world crashing down around him, he spent time reconnecting with his roots and centering himself. And in 2026 he returns with a chip on his shoulder. His mixtape “don’t close your eyes” sees Cilo at his freest. With a title that can be read both with excitement, or as a threat, it represents the two sides of the artist. Outwardly, Cilo is charismatic, fun and charming. But inside, there is a darkness that hangs over him. Fully committing to the sounds that inspired him in his youth and paying homage to home, the mixtape shows Cilo emerging as a new leader of the Bay Area.