Nelo Performing at Sun Valley Viaduct Night Market
When I caught up with Nelo ahead of his performance at the Sun Valley Viaduct Night Market, he was balancing grad school, new music, community work and mental health advocacy. Yet, he moved with purpose through it all.
Fresh off finishing his first year of pursuing a Master of Divinity, Nelo shared how school has actually started influencing his music. In fact, he shared that some professors have even allowed him to turn in songs as assignments.
Beyond music, Nelo also spoke about the importance of providing mental health spaces for the community. For example, Nelo is involved in TheRAPy Sessions, community-centered events focused on reflection, healing and honest conversations through art.
“Music is when you can say things you can’t say in regular conversation,” he told me.
That same reflective and honest energy shows up in “Normal,” his collaboration with Siah Rain'n. It’s a track that captures the frustration and chaos so many people are feeling right now.
“None of this is normal,” Nelo said. “We can’t accept this as normal.”
Now he’s bringing that message, along with some classics, new releases and still-unreleased music to the Sun Valley Viaduct Night Market on May 16, 2026. Nelo’s set promises to bring a little bit of everything: music, reflection and community connection.
Nelo says he’s especially excited because of his history working in the Sun Valley neighborhood and reconnecting with the community.
“We outside!” he laughed.
