Raised in one of the most culturally diverse cities, Cuban-Puerto Rican artist NFA is no stranger to fusing together his own fresh take on music. The Miami-Dade, FL native just exploded on the scene with his single ‘Que Bola‘ which introduced the confident yet humble musician. Scatting across a spicy latin beat, NFA bounces between Spanish and English so effortlessly making the song an instant hit for music lovers. Back to show he’s just getting started, his new single ‘Babaloo‘ quickly gained spins on radio stations worldwide. Arguably one up the catchiest songs of the summer, NFA doesn’t plan on slowing down. Describing his own style as Latino Urbano meets Hip Hop, one things for sure he has a knack for writing songs that satisfy every audience.
The Source sat down with the rising star to discuss his flaming new single ‘Babaloo‘, his inspirations and misconceptions about his hometown Miami-Dade, Florida.
1.Tell us what it was like growing up in Miami and who were some of your musical influences.
The cultural and ethnic diversity that Miami offers, definitely made it interesting. It was rough most of the time, but where else can you get jerk chicken, conch fritters, and pastelitos de guayaba all within a few miles? Musically, growing up in a latin household, The Fania All Stars were always in heavy rotation. As a Miami native, Trick Daddy and JT Money were the first ones to catch my young ears, but you know we love us some 2Pac down in Dade county…and of course Big Pun! He made us Latinos believe this was possible.
2. Your songs all have a catchy vibe to them, and we love your new single ‘Babaloo’. Who produced it and how did the song come about?
Thank you so much, I appreciate that. The record was produced by PLYBCK, a super talented group of producers and good friends of mine from Miami. The song was actually created in Los Angeles when PLYBCK came to visit me. We wanted to bring that authentic Miami flavor to LA so we booked a session, stopped by the cookie store, caught a vibe, and the rest is history!
3. How would you describe your genre of music?
I would have to say Latino Urbano meets Hip Hop. Although growing up, I was more into the conscious/lyrical side of the art, now I’m trying to have fun and be experimental in the studio. I still sprinkle the metaphors and witty punch lines in there as often as possible for my lyrical listeners.
4. Did you face any challenges breaking into the music industry as a Cuban/Puerto Rican artist?
Oh man, so many… but why dwell. All I have to say is that I’m glad Latinos are finally getting our well-deserved recognition in today’s popular genres.
5. Whats the biggest misconception about your hometown Miami-Dade?
That it’s ONLY South Beach! We’re not just cars, beaches, and beautiful women, there’s more to my people. You have to travel from Carol City to The Goulds before you can say you know Miami.
6. If you could get a verse from any artist ——-dead or alive—- who would that be?
Wow, this is a difficult one, since I’m bilingual, I have to pick two. First I’m going with Hector Lavoe. I really think the frequencies of our voices would’ve worked well together. And I still can’t believe I’m saying this but, the late great Nipsey Hussle. From his views on equity and buying back the block, to his empathy towards young urban America, I think he was an all around standup dude. And shit, we’re both Leos, why not?
7. What can we expect from NFA?
I’m really excited for all the upcoming projects we have in store for y’all! I don’t want to give too much away, but expect some dope collaborations, plenty more music, and cinematic visuals. Stay tuned!
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