MBNel releases new music after visiting the Philippines
TAKING inspiration from his most recent visit to his motherland, Filipino-American rap artist MBNel released his latest single “Just Like You” via US label Empire.
This new single puts MBNel’s artistry on full display with a unique beat and unapologetic lyrics that perfectly reflects life in Manila for the Filipino masses.
In fact, the proud Fil-American rapper features everyday life in the Philippine urban jungle for the song’s official video which was filmed in Manila’s slums and old railways, with MBNel playfully chilling with Pinoy folks and kids in the streets as a proud tribute to his heritage.
MBNel visited the Philippines last month for the first time since his early years. Born and raised in South Stockton, California, he has been renowned for releasing authentic and vulnerable music since 2017. His famous rap tracks are “Feelings,” “Opulent,” “Manifested,” “Restart,” and “In My City.” Nel shared his excitement and aspirations with Music Geek.
During his visit, he mentioned that he looks forward to immersing in Filipino culture, meeting new individuals, and connecting with various artists. He also performed at the Sinulog Festival in Cebu, the hometown of his mother.
Besides his appearance at the festival, Nel elaborated on his musical identity. He sincerely answered, “It is vulnerable, real, and painful music. It is a way to jot down what is in my head.” Shortly, he disclosed that his father was also engrossed in the craft, which motivated him to seek a music career.
Consequently, the Fil-Am rapper claims that music is an essential part of his everyday routine that encourages him to persevere.
He emphasized, “Music runs through my veins,” as it allows selfintrospection and the expression of complex emotions.
Following this, the artist revealed that rawness and grittiness attract listeners to his music, noting that the melody draws them in while the lyrics compel them to stay.
When asked about his songwriting process, he shared that he often starts writing on his notes; otherwise, he will freestyle in the studio.
“Whatever goes in my head. But there are songs that I will need to sit down and write. It depends on the mood.”
The rap artist also acknowledged the difficulty of deciding when a song is ready, as he constantly and meticulously rearranges the beats and lyrics.
“It takes time for me to get used to a song first.”
Moreover, he figures writing for himself requires less effort as it is a way to express his thoughts. He supposes that it eventually shifts into writing for his listeners.
“If I worry too much about what the audience thinks, I get lost in what type of music to create, whereas if I stick to what I want to write, it gets easier, as it resonates with whoever relates to it.”
He said the tracks that had the most impact on him are “Feelings” and “In My City,” which stay accurate to his vulnerable and sincere storytelling.
On the other hand, he regrettably expressed that he lacked Filipino influence as he grew up with American culture.
Despite this, he stated that “Feelings” may have resonated with his Filipino listeners. “I said a line about spam, rice, and eggs, and they loved it.”
One of his latest release, “The Reason,” is dedicated to his fans, specifically his long-time supporters. On the other hand, his 2023 album “8 to Infinity” showcased his diverse sounds, expansive range, and introspection of his life. Overall, the release depicts the complex highs and lows of reality, with “Bag Chasin” as a focus track, highlighting the drive and optimistic side of the artist.
Ultimately, the rapper believes that for a rapper to flourish, one must deliver a distinctive story that showcases their authenticity, from music to lyrics.
Positively, listeners can anticipate that the rapper will release brand new music that reflects his growth as a musician, stating, “I want to delve into more pop sounds to keep trying different things. There is no point in holding back.”
Read more about MBNel below:
What are the top three songs you enjoy at the moment?
From myself, I would say my recent ones. “The Reason,” “8 to Infinity,” and “Manifested” are my top three at the moment, and from other artists, that is a difficult one because my music rotation is constantly changing.
What characteristics do you look for in a collaborator?
Being genuine is what I look for in a collaborator. Business is business, but at the end of the day, I favor someone genuine over just business.
Are there any artists you want to work with in the future?
One that people have been saying is Polo G. There are various artists I wish to collaborate with.