NandoSTL – Lookin for Me

By starrymag | October 2, 2024

By: Lisa Steinberg

 

 

Q) You’re originally from St. Louis. How did the city play a role in shaping who you are as an artist?

A) One of my greatest musical influences from was the church. Going to church with my grandmother really put music in my spirit. I wasn’t into the preaching too much, but the exciting part was the music. When I was a kid, I felt like all the cool kids played drums, so that’s what I wanted to do. I always hop on the drums when I get the chance. I like to being that soulful energy of gospel music to my songs.

Also, St. Louis is a hidden gem and has a close community. Everybody runs together. It makes it easy to pull up with somebody and create something that’s dope with that St. Louis sound.

 

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

A) DMX, Juvenile, and Chance the Rapper

 

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Lookin for Me.”

A) This was the first time that I created song where I knew exactly where I wanted it to be played. I wanted it to be a stadium anthem for all the underdogs out there that ever felt like people were trying to count them out.

 

Q) What do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?

A) I think anybody that is trying to achieve a goal or has any type of dreams or aspirations will sometime feel like the underdog. No one sees your vision until you accomplish it. I think that is what my fans can relate to. I write songs that speak to things they go through and feel every day.

 

Q) How does the video for the track play into the message behind it?

A) When I wrote this song, I could see it being played in the stadium as a rallying call for players and fans. Being invited to shoot the video in the soccer stadium for St. Louis CITY SC was a special moment for me because I got the chance to bring this song back to the crib, but also highlight our new soccer team who for a lack of a better word could be viewed as the underdogs in the league because they are new. But, like me and the rest of the family from the crib, we are going to let people know that we are here and you better not count us out.

 

Q) What is your songwriting process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?

A) I create the music first and that helps me determine what mood I am in when I begin writing. When I listen to music I see colors. If I see red, I think of aggression or anger and I am going to write lyrics that match that.

 

Q) How much of a hand do you have in the production of your music?

A) My hand is in everything. Of course, I have my creative team that I will reach out to for certain aspects, by I make sure I am included in each step of the process.

 

Q) With “Lookin for Me” out now, will there be a full album or EP coming in the near future?

A) Yes. Stay tuned.

 

Q) You’re currently on tour with T-Pain. Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you?

A) Chicago – I grew up there. It is where my music journey really got serious thanks to Classick Studios. I have developed a strong fan base. They’re like my cousins.

St. Louis – It’s always great to come home and be welcomed back. It’s like a family reunion each time.

 

Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

A) Maxwell

 

Q) What artist/musician are you currently listening to and why do you dig them? 

Westside Boogie – The easiest way to describe it is I feel like he’s the West Coast Nando. His upbringing was like mine. His lyrical ability is crazy.

Smino – I’m always going to support the crib.

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?

A) It’s a direct connect to them. You can easily share moments and invite them along on the journey.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

A) Thank you. Thank you for being different and liking what you like because it gives me room to create what I like.