Leaving your native land to seek a better life for your family is a common story for many Hispanic immigrants—but fairly uncommon among American-born Hispanics.

Leo Martinez was born and raised in California, but his Mexican roots are not only evident in his upbringing--but also in his music.

(Leo Martinez. Musician) “We grew up in a Hispanic community, and so that's what was around us the whole time. And so we just always incorporated that into our music.”

Known as Spanish rock, Leo spends his free time playing as much guitar as he can. But most of his time is spent as a district café trainer for Barnes and Noble--a job that took him far from his extended family, but offers much more opportunity for his wife and two young children.

(Martinez) “Getting married and trying to have a better life with my children, just like my dad did with us. Coming to the United States at a very young age--same kind of scenario with moving out of California. Life is very expensive in California. And then coming to Arkansas where everything is quite low and exceptional.”

Leo says although the Hispanic community in Arkansas still tends to congregate in certain areas of the state, he advices young Hispanics here to branch out.

(Martinez) “There's so much opportunity out there if you're looking for expansion, or to grow in the community, or in your job--or anything you're doing. You have the advantage because you do come from a different background, and you have a different perspective.”

Leo hopes to start performing more around town, and is now working to make his first CD.

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