— Domino

San Francisco’s Diverse Hip-Hop Collective

Damian “Domino” Siguenza – Born in San Francisco, California, Damian “Domino” Siguenza earned his nickname from high school friends, simply tying it to the first letter of his name. What started as a casual moniker would soon become synonymous with one of hip-hop’s most innovative producers.

Domino began his music career as a rapper in 1988, founding the group Def-Line Posse alongside his longtime high school friend Assassin M.D. (Jason Melton) and DJ Colt 45. The group grew quickly, adding members like MC Jay (later Madhatter), MC DISS (Mr. Lynne Brown), Prince J (Ty-Stick), Checkmate (Dwayne), and DJ K-LUV (DJ KV). Together, they crafted groundbreaking hip-hop demos that captured the attention of a Delicious Vinyl A&R representative, giving Domino the belief that a career in music was within reach.

As his passion for beat-making grew, Domino invested in a Casio FZ-10M sampler, marking a pivotal shift in his career. By the mid-1990s, he had transitioned from rapping to production, joining the renowned Hieroglyphics crew and contributing to their unmistakable sound.

In 1991, Domino honed his craft in the backroom of The Groove Merchant record store in San Francisco’s Lower Haight neighborhood. There, he immersed himself in rare funk and soul records, sharpening his ear for samples and production. A chance connection with Del the Funky Homosapien introduced Domino to the other members of Hieroglyphics, cementing his role as an integral part of the collective. As the oldest member, Domino naturally took on the role of spokesman and manager for groups signed to labels like Elektra and Jive Records.

Domino’s production style, blending jazz and funk influences with inventive sampling, became a foundation of the Hieroglyphics sound. His work includes classics like “Let Em’ Know” and “Live and Let Live” from Souls of Mischief’s 93 ’til Infinity, as well as “After Dark” and “At the Helm” from Hieroglyphics’ 3rd Eye Vision. These contributions have made Domino a revered figure in underground hip-hop, earning worldwide recognition during his tenure as CEO of Hiero Imperium from 1997–2006.

Beyond Hieroglyphics, Domino has created music for commercials, television, and video games, with tracks featured in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater and HBO’s Entourage. He has also collaborated with renowned artists like Dan the Automator and Amp Fiddler.

Today, Domino remains deeply connected to his roots, forming a new group, City Built, with former Def-Line members. City Built is dedicated to preserving hip-hop culture while giving back to the San Francisco communities where it all began. With a commitment to innovation and authenticity, Domino continues to shape the sound of hip-hop, one beat at a time.