In early 2022, NENE debuted, and his first album, (NOT MYSELF.), was released in November. The album offers a great representation of his mix of post-punk, indie and hip-hop. With the rap-filled “WTF/SANDS,” the experimental electronic banger “OFFGUARD,” and the indie/punk driven “LOVERBOY,” NENE is always throwing artistic left turns into his music. He is set to release new single “D.S.A.T.” on Jan. 1—and who knows what sound will be next? For more info, visit instagram.com/neneisalive_.
What was the first concert you attended?
If I remember right, it was actually Coachella fest. It was 2012, the year that Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg headlined. I remember being front-row, and At the Drive-In performing before Dr. Dre went on. Their performance was crazy, and I saw body after body being taken out of the crowd. It was just too wild—and I loved it. My chest was bruised the day after from being up against the gate because of how crowded and tight it was. It was an experience. I swear I saw Jesus Christ being carried out by the crowd, too.
What was the first album you owned?
Back in middle school, the first official album I actually owned, and not burned or copied, was Silverstein, Arrivals and Departures, back when I was in my emo-kid phase. That album is still a classic in my opinion.
What bands are you listening to right now?
It really just depends on my mood and what sound I’m trying to go for next in my music; that can sometimes sound very bipolar, but I love it. At the moment, I’m really obsessed with an alt/reggaeton artist by the name of Rosalia, specifically her newest album, Motomami. I have that on repeat. I’ve also been going back a lot to Danzig’s music. I plan on going back and listening to more Misfits music as well. I want to gather influence from Danzig’s voice and lyrics. I think he has a dope voice.
What artist, genre or musical trend does everyone love, but you don’t get?
I’m still learning to love and/or like hyperpop and K-pop. I just can’t vibe with it yet for some reason. I think I like a song from 100 gecs, though.
What musical act, current or defunct, would you most like to see perform live?
I have a long list, but I really want to see Kendrick Lamar, Rosalia, N8NOFACE, The Smile or Interpol live.
What’s your favorite musical guilty pleasure?
1990s club music, feel-good rock and acoustic love music.
What’s your favorite music venue?
I really like the sound at Bart Lounge. The stage was amazing at the Tamale Fest. But if there’s anywhere I’m looking forward to performing, it would definitely be with Desert Underground. I feel at home and welcomed at all the shows they throw, anywhere they’re at.
What’s the one song lyric you can’t get out of your head?
I’ve had my own lyrics stuck in my head from my upcoming single “D.S.A.T.”: “And Be yourself / Be your light / Be your mom / And be your rights / NO DON’T.” Sometimes, if not most times, I try to decipher my own shit.
What band or artist changed your life? How?
Kendrick Lamar changed my life and perspective because of his impactful lyrics. Radiohead changed my life and perspective because of their unique sound. It just opened my mind as an artist and person. It made me question and realize how far we can go as artists with our art, and as people with ourselves.
You have one question to ask one musician. What’s the question, and who are you asking?
“Why???” to Kanye “Ye” West.
What song would you like played at your funeral?
“Prickly Pear,” Portico Quartet.
Figurative gun to your head, what is your favorite album of all time?
Frank Ocean, Blonde. Please don’t shoot me.
What song should everyone listen to right now?
“TURN OF EVENTS,” NENE, or “LOVERBOY,” NENE.
