When people ask what kind of music I listen to, I tell them I’m simply a fan of good music.
The genres I blend
I came of age during the blog era, and hip-hop is the foundation of everything I make. From there, I blend in R&B, soul, funk, psychedelic rock, pop and even a touch of pop-punk, drawing on a wide range of sounds I’ve collected throughout my life.
A lifelong Beatles fan
I’m also a devoted Beatles fan. I approach recording the way John Lennon did when he wanted his voice to sound like the Dalai Lama chanting from a mountaintop. I always want to outdo myself and create something one of a kind, even if that means not sounding like myself at all.
No box
Artists often say they don’t want to be put in a box, and I understand why. Since I started recording, I’ve tried to push boundaries and make every song sound distinct. I have certain tendencies within each genre, but I love blending styles and building entirely new productions.
Hip-hop is arguably the most important genre I’ve ever heard, and I love rapping. But not every song calls for 16 bars, and some of the greatest songs ever written aren’t rap at all. I learned that firsthand with “Come Back Down,” the song where I finally found my voice.
Growing up between two worlds
My generation was the first to experience so many things. I was around 12 when I created an Instagram account. We discovered new and old music through new devices, from computers to smartphones to the iPod touch, as new technology competed with the old. It was a remarkable time to grow up, and sometimes I feel like one of the last of a dying breed.
Everyday people
I’m honestly less inspired by musicians than by everyday people: the ones you might not look at twice. People who are honest, kind, generous with their time and thoughtful. My inspiration is boundless, and I let my imagination explore every scenario I can think of.
Where to listen
Hear how it all comes together:
- Nate Sanway on Spotify
- Nate Sanway on Apple Music
- Nate Sanway on YouTube
- Nate Sanway on Bandcamp
- All my links in one place
You can also listen to my music here on the site on the Music page. For features, collaborations and bookings, reach out here.
