The Intro | Nelo

Sugabear & La Molly sat down with The Intro artist to discuss his undeniable trajectory of building community with his music. Nelo, whose name is derived from his government name Chinelo means "Thought of God" in Igbo. With a South African mother who grew up during apartheid and a Mississippi-born father who experienced Jim Crow, his background deeply influences his work. "I feel like I'm a melting pot of advocacy," Nelo shared during the interview. "I want to take this artistry and do more with it than just get people to listen to a song, but create community and be inspired to hear it and either want to do for others or do right." 

After winning the station's Battle for the Block competition and opening for a major artist, Nelo has experienced significant momentum. "My music is the catalyst for how I evolve and understand my life," he said, describing how each project serves as a roadmap for his personal growth. For him, creating music is therapeutic: "I'll be in a bad mood one day... I got a lot on my mind. Let me go get the studio." 

When asked to complete the phrase "My artistry is not complete without blank," Nelo's answer was immediate: "Love." He elaborated on how love serves as his motivation and catalyst, especially during challenging times. That love extends beyond his music to mentorship opportunities and running music therapy classes at schools, creating ripples of positive impact throughout the community.

You can find Nelo on Instagram and TikTok at @GR.Nelo, and catch him performing throughout Denver as he continues to build community through his art.