Hailing from the Bronx, the NY rapper has long been at work formulating a fresh new sound, combining a unique mixture of modern rap style instrumentation, mashed up with a laid back jazzy, soulful delivery reminiscent of artists such as J Cole, to create a style of colourful, groovy and spacey rap which we’re yet to properly come across.
Speaking on his current progress, Nelson seems content, “Thanks for talking to me, I appreciate it. My years been beautiful so far”, an impressive feature of High Nelson’s artistry is his impressive work rate. This work rate has seen a continuous and organic rise in the underground. High Nelson has already proven to be a distinct force, with his singles ‘Sunday’ and ‘Young Blood’ doing solid numbers.
There are no rules and formula books for High Nelson, only a desire to create and form a connection between art and consumers. This is shown perfectly in his vibey and laid back new video ‘Young Blood’. The visual really compliments the music and shows Nelson’s creative direction, “My creative direction for my music is pretty much stream of consciousness. Being as real as possible with what I’m saying.” Speaking further on the single itself and the meaning behind it, Nelson continues: “Young blood was meant to be a reflection of where I am in life right now. Not interested in the hype anymore just chasing something, but as I dove deeper while writing I also realized I’ve lost a piece of myself and my happiness by focusing so much on one thing. So it’s almost as if I’m saying I’m mature, I’m not after the hype anymore, but also realizing I was losing my essence. Never stop living life no matter how serious you are about a goal you have. ”
Speaking on where High Nelson sees his music taking him, he states “I want my music to touch the masses, I’m not after hype or fame but I definitely want my music to touch the masses. In another year’s time I see myself in a better situation than I am right now. Whether that be signed indie or major or even still independent, just a better situation no matter what. I don’t give up so the way IS up”. This fresh new sound that Nelson is creating by fusing togethe sounds has turned heads, it’s clear that they’re heavily influenced by a lot of different types of artists. “My main inspirations are Hip Hop, Soca/Calypso, Reggae, and the U.K. culture and music”. His open mindedness to this aspect of music has meant he’s always on the lookout for collabs and new inspiration, he states “ I definitely would like to work with Greentea Peng and Lord Apex. I’d like to give a shout to Prey4Neno, Misal Ascender, 808wizard, Bleev, Shai Bascombe and just anybody I know that’s pushing music in any way. ”
If you want to catch High Nelson perform live, you can keep an eye on The Art In The Park festival in Leamington Spa, and with a project on the way, it’s clear that 2022 will be an exciting year for High Nelson. “Look out for ‘Ribbon In The Sky’ dropping next and the project ‘Hello’ . It’s a capsule of a certain point in my life. I hope you guys relate.”
