5 minute read

NATHAN “Napalm” PALMER

NFL Alum to R&B Sensation

When did you first get into music?

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Music became my first love at the age of 4. At least that’s when I was brave enough to jump on the drums!

Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in music?

My mother inspired me. I think her love for music and always being involved in music bled into my spirit!

How has your music evolved since you first began creating music?

I think my music is still evolving as I’m learning more and growing more as a person. Definitely a better writer and producer now that I have a better understanding of who I am and what I want to say to the world!

I’m sure you have shared the stage with many talented individuals/celebrities along the way. Would you share 1 or 2 of your favorite stories with us?

First story, comes from a show with Machine Gun Kelly in Denver, Colorado...he was still coming into his own as a performer but I just remember him drinking on stage smashing the bottle then cutting himself on stage....immediately my manager goes “well you have to top that” haha, definitely a show to remember!

Second story, just opening for Drake before he was a superstar and seeing he’s kept the same team around him from 10 years ago just is flat out inspiring to me!

If you were forced to choose only one, which emotion, more than any other drives you to stay in this tough business? Is it joy, anger, desire, passion or pride and why?

Passion keeps me going in this business, I think! Without the passion to create, I really don’t know how I would get up everyday. From the music to the experiences the music creates, I just love it all!!

Which ingredient do you think makes you special and unique as a performing artist in an industry overflowing with new faces and ideas?

I think my energy sets me apart....I’m someone you may not know when you get to my show, but you’ll love the experience I create and the energy I bring to EVERY SHOW!

What has been your biggest challenge as a performing artist? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?

My biggest challenge has been picking a consistent show set, haha… I tend to switch my songs in the moment. My band hates it sometimes, but it keeps people on their toes!!

A common phrase in the industry is, “you must suffer for your art.” Do you agree with this statement? If so, how have you suffered for your art?

Definitely suffer, but it’s for sure a choice! I tend to lose a lot when it comes to love and relationships. Although, they make for great songs, I’ve definitely had a rough time singing and performing a couple tunes and hiding the emotions!!

How do you feel the internet has impacted the music business?

I feel like the internet is a gift and a curse to the music industry…on one hand it created a platform for independent artists to reach their fans directly....on the other hand people have completely over saturated the industry with internet gimmicks in my opinion! Music isn’t about music anymore, it’s about marketing!

Have you done or plan on doing any Live-stream Concerts? If you have, how has the response been from your fans?

I’ve been blessed to get booked by the first drive in concert (PR POPUPS/NUFACEENT) that took place in Chicago! I think it was the first time I’d ever had fans fly from all over the country to watch me open for another artist. Planning more this Spring.

If you could change anything about the music industry. What would it be?

I want to put the LOVE back in the music industry! Bring the love back, make it the new currency!!

What are the 5 albums that have helped make you the person you are today? And why?

Man, my top 5 albums would be:

1 Wildheart by Miguel (This is my favorite album, one because it time stamped a time in my life where I committed to exploring who I was on a deeper level and this soundtrack definitely helped me live a little!!)

2 Nostalgia, Ultra Frank Ocean (Frank has so many great projects, but rarely do you find an artist that covers songs and makes you forget the original version! Nostalgia Ultra is FULL of remakes that prove that theory.)

3 good kid, m.A.A.d city By Kendrick Lamar

(Album dropped my rookie year in the nfl and I probably reached a lot of goals while listening to this album. Also his story telling is unmatched to me.)

4 Any album by auntie Erykah Badu (Miss Badu is just that one artist I can listen to anything she does and be entertained. I also tend to listen to her first thing in the morning to set the tone and vibe for the day!)

5 TP by Teddy Pendergrass (growing up my mother played all gospel, but my aunt Betty...she played TEDDY! This album marks so many childhood memories for me it literally takes me back to those warm summer mornings watching my aunt get her house cleaned and breakfast ready, while all the kids she took care of ran around the neighborhood playing! Man, miss those vibes!)

What is the best advice you have received?

That’s easy mom and dad taught me young Let God lead you, the rest will follow!

Tell us about your current project. Are you working on new music? An EP or Album?

Working on a couple projects rn…

First project, is an EP Lake Shore Drive: Chasing Summer, it’ll be my first release with TTPMG.

Second project, is A secret haha, but I’ll definitely send it to you guys first when it’s complete.

What’s next for you?

Really, just been focused on this launch of LSD vol. 1 and maybe a little acting on the side!

How can fans-to-be gain access to your music?

All digital platforms, where music can be streamed! Also, just follow my social media (Realnapalm) for the newest drops.

Napalm handles: https://www.instagram.com/realnapalm/ https://twitter.com/realnapalm https://open.spotify.com/artist/1TdBRnl8jcFbfoCIf4EWn0?si=Alc7VlIGRI-VlLegNvgqtw

D. Mack Management & President of A&R Misfit Island/RareFörm Creative

Business inquires contact: Rita Lee Nufaceentertainment@gmail.com Tasha B. 646.651.7632