With a voice that captivates and a passion for music that runs deep, Nado has finally made his mark on the industry with the release of his debut single, "For the Streets." Hailing from Greenville, South Carolina, and raised in Dallas, Texas, Nado's journey to becoming a musician was written in the stars from a young age. Drawing inspiration from music legends like Michael Jackson, Prince, and Usher, Nado honed his craft through talent shows, church choirs, and relentless practice. Now, after overcoming numerous obstacles and setbacks, Nado's hard work has paid off with the release of a single that showcases his unique sound and undeniable talent. ' Recorded at the well renowned Grammy nominated and Award winning Studio Luminous sound, 'For the Streets,' is an essential track to add to your playlist this summer season. Learn more about Nado's musical journey and the inspiration behind "For the Streets" in this exclusive interview.
Take us back, do you recall the moment you told yourself “I'm going to make this my career”, describe that moment. What made you pursue this career?
Yes, I was about 6 or 7 years old, and I remember sitting in front of the TV watching MTV when Michael Jackson's "Thriller" came on. I recall feeling the magic, the passion in every move was so infectious. I would get up and learn every move until I nailed it, feeling like I could conquer the world. That's when I knew I wanted to pursue music and make it my career.
How would you describe your artistic style?
I would describe my artistic style as innovative yet current, while also drawing inspiration from legendary artists like Michael Jackson, Prince, and James Brown. They created music that you could dance to and have fun with, but also that touched the soul. That's my intention when creating my music and something I want to continue to produce.
What are you most passionate about? What themes or concepts do you explore in your music?
I can’t pinpoint one aspect that I’m most passionate about when creating music. I enjoy the entire process, from listening to a beat, coming up with a rhythm and writing the first verse, to recording, and finally mixing. I really enjoy every step because every little detail is important in the final product. Pulling every emotion of the human experience, or even the title name, from a beat—whatever the beat tells me—allows me to be creatively free throughout the process.
Are there any specific artists or movements that have influenced your work?
Again I have to say, Michael Jackson is a huge influence—really, every movement of his. Every movement he made in his art had so much conviction, power, and intention behind it. The "Thriller" movement is undeniably influential even to this day.
I also draw inspiration from Frank Ocean, Chris Brown, and Usher, who are not only able to write, produce, and entertain, but able to draw inspiration from different types of genres and artists.
If you had to title this chapter in your life, what would it be?
I would title this chapter in my life, "THE BEST IS YET TO COME." I feel like this is just the beginning for me. Every trial, every sacrifice, and everything I endure personally and through the creative process has led me to this point, but I haven’t even scratched the surface yet. There’s still work to be done, so yeah,I would say, "THE BEST IS YET TO COME.”
When was the last time you did something for the first time? What did you learn from that experience?
For the first time, I’m not so hard on myself. I’ve learned that mistakes are necessary for growth. I’ve learned to trust myself more and trust the process; to not listen to nay sayers and stay focused, stay on course never give up for my destination is waiting for me.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
The best advice I’ve been given is that we must all suffer from one of two pains: the pain of discipline or the pain of regret. The difference is that discipline weighs ounces while regret weighs tons.
What’s one something you had to “learn the hard way”?
One thing I had to learn the hard way is that not everyone and everything is for you, and that’s okay. Go where the love is, even if you have to stand alone, the way you feel about yourself and your mental health is most important.
Has there ever been a time when you felt like giving up and starting a new path? What keeps you focused?
Of course there has. I think everyone has moments where things seem overwhelming, and we just want to give up, or in my case, take a break, lol. I can’t ever say I had a moment where I saw myself doing anything else but music, honestly speaking, but I’ve definitely had the feeling of wanting to give up. Somehow, the music and my passion for it haven’t allowed me to quit. It always finds its way to me, and I to it. What keeps me focused is the love for the art and this unwavering belief that "I WILL MAKE IT.”
What has been the most exciting thing that has happened to you recently?
The most exciting thing that has happened to me recently is the overwhelming love and support I have received from fans, supporters, and loved ones for my new single, “For the Streets.” I’m extremely grateful and don’t take it for granted.
In your opinion, whom do you consider to be a visionary? What about them do you admire most?
If you haven’t noticed by now, I’m a huge fan of Michael Jackson, lol. He was the epitome of a visionary, from his storytelling through his music videos to his live performance concepts and the smallest details in his craft. What I admire most about Michael is his work ethic and dedication toeverything he did.
How do you show up for yourself? As in, what does self-care look like for you?
I believe self-care is essential to overall health. A few things I like to do are pray, meditate, and work out, among other activities.
The past years have been life-changing. What's something new you've learned or discovered about yourself in the past 3 years? How have you applied that to your work?
About 3-4 years ago, I was in a bad car accident that could have taken my life. This experience really made me put a lot of things into perspective. One realization was that life is short, so take risks, go after the things you love and are passionate about, and strive to be a better person and a better man for myself and for the people who love and support me. This helped me see life in a new light and has given me an unwavering belief and confidence in myself and my abilities, which I believe resonates through my music and my work. I trust myself and the plans the Creator has for me.
What was the inspiration for your new project? Can you tell us more about the meaning behind the music?
The inspiration behind “For the Streets" Was the ups and downs of life whether it’s an unhealthy relationship, job, or friendship do what’s best for your mental “hit those Streets"
How does this song compare to any previous music you've done?
Well, this is my first official single release. Although I’ve had great practice with other music I’ve created, through much trial and error, I have learned different methods to perfect my music over the years. Living life has also helped me grow as an artist overall.
Describe the creative process. When did you know you had the final cut?
I like to have fun in the studio. During the writing process, I’m usually alone, listening to the beat over and over again, cultivating the foundation of the song. It starts off as mumbles to what you hear today, lol. It took me about a year and a half to know I had the final cut. I’m sort of a perfectionist, so I don’t quit until it feels right. So, about a year and a half after creating the song, I knew I had the final cut.
What do you feel has been your biggest growth as an artist?
I feel like my biggest growth as an artist has been trusting myself more and allowing myself to be free in my art. I usually have someone in the studio with me, but for this single, it was all me from beginning to end, which gave me so much strength.
Following your dreams comes with many ups and downs. What would say is the hardest thing about following your dreams?
I would say the hardest part of following your dreams is dealing with the unknown and believing in yourself no matter what the present looks like. Being patient and knowing that when the time is right, you’ll achieve your goal .
In your opinion, what do you think is not fair about today's music industry?
I believe the pay for artists in the music industry is unfair. Many people think that creating a two- or three-minute song isn't hard work, or that having a career in music or entertainment isn't significant. However, there’s so much effort that goes into it, and I don't think people realize how much it takes out of a person to go through all that and endure it, only to make. pennies on the dollar while big corporations make millions, especially for independent artists.
How do you hope your music resonates with viewers or impacts the world?
I believe anybody can relate to my song, so I hope it resonates that we all deserve the very best that the universe has to offer. Anything that is out of alignment with that doesn’t deserve to be in our spaces. We don’t have to stay in any situation that doesn’t serve us; we can hit the streets and do what’s best for us, and that’s OK. You will find that dream love and that dream career path, but it all starts with you. Whether male or female, you are enough.
What's next for you career?
Well, I’m working on a music video for “For the Streets” as we speak, which will be coming out soon. So make sure you all keep a lookout for that. I’m also currently in the studio working on new music,For my EP. I am a firm believer in manifestation and put no limits on what I can accomplish, so I definitely see myself doing movies and tapping into different
endeavors.
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