Eliot Chandoo, aka Drago RP: The Art of Rising and Inspiring
Eliot Chandoo, known as Drago RP, is emerging as a prominent figure in the Mauritian urban scene. Hailing from Cité La Caverne, he transforms a path filled with obstacles into a source of creative energy that inspires others. His story is one of perseverance, inner strength, and embracing his identity.
Growing up in the streets of Cité La Caverne, Vacoas, Eliot experienced a childhood filled with laughter, music escaping from open windows, and the darker realities lurking around every corner. Unlike some of his peers, he realized early on that he needed to carve his own path. "I grew up surrounded by many challenges: alcohol, cigarettes, drugs, and even synthetic drugs that were becoming fashionable. I could have taken the wrong path, but I chose to take my destiny into my own hands," he shares.
This isn't just a statement; it's a declaration of daily victory—a promise he made to himself. "I am a child of Cité La Caverne, but I have proven that even coming from a place like mine, one can create something pure and positive."
To understand Eliot, one must grasp the essence of Drago RP, his artist name, which was thoughtfully chosen and embraced. Drago, short for dragon, symbolizes more than mere aesthetics. "For me, the dragon represents raw strength, burning ambition, and a fighting spirit that rises again, even when everything is against it."
This inner strength, almost instinctive, is what Eliot cultivated during moments when the world seemed intent on breaking him. However, the pseudonym goes deeper. It also nods to the iconic Monkey D. Dragon from "One Piece"—a calm, discreet figure, sometimes invisible, yet capable of turning the tide when he takes action. "That's exactly the energy I want to convey: calm on the surface, but impactful in effect."
As for the "RP," it stands for resilience and passion. These letters evoke the street, identity, and the raw reality of his experiences—a reminder that behind ambition lies a story, a foundation, a truth.
Adolescence Shaped by Hardship
Music entered Eliot's life early. "I grew up in an environment where music was always present," he reflects. Yet, this presence did not erase the difficulties. "Since I was 14, my life hasn't been easy: lack of resources, lack of support, and people I relied on never reciprocated my energy."
In hindsight, he speaks not with bitterness or regret but sees it as a form of education—a school of life. "Today, all these experiences have made me more mature and determined."
To avoid sinking, Eliot clung to two pillars: music and sports. Gym workouts, athletics, and anything that builds inner discipline helped him forge a strong mindset—one capable of saying no, resisting, and persevering.
Drago RP is not seeking to please; he strives for authenticity. He describes his music as a blend of dancehall, afro, and trap—a vibrant cocktail infused with his unique identity. "My flow, tone, posture, and energy make it distinctive. I don't create music just to make noise; I do it with vision, determination, and the desire to resonate with others through my reality."
This need for authenticity permeates all his tracks. Some are meant for dancing and releasing energy, while others convey powerful messages.
His song "Inzistis" is a perfect example—one to which he feels deeply connected: "It speaks truths about situations we encounter every day." Currently, Eliot is already working on a new single and video, with a clear and bold ambition: "To bring a more professional, stronger, and higher-quality level to every project. What’s coming will be powerful."
A Message for Those Growing Up in the Shadows
"In this journey filled with inner battles and difficult choices, Eliot never forgets those who walk behind him: the youth. Those who, like him, see false glimmers shining each day—drugs, false promises, and alluring paths that seduce but destroy.
Don’t be deceived. Don’t be drawn to what glitters but burns. Keep your strength, stay clear-minded, protect your future. Surround yourself with good people. Find what drives you. Work on it. And above all, don’t let anyone limit you."
He concludes with his mantra, born from his experiences: "SO LID SO", which means hold on, don’t give up, even when life gets tough.