We were lucky to catch up with Nacho Larraza recently and have shared our conversation below.

Nacho, appreciate you joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

When it comes to crafting songs, I embarked on a journey of trial and error. Like many musicians, I began by writing songs with just guitar and vocals. Over time, this process evolved as I got into production, intertwining both aspects of music creation. Reflecting on my learning journey, I realize that experimentation played a significant role.

I believe the most crucial lesson I’ve learned is to follow my passion without being overly concerned about external validation. Doing what excites me, irrespective of others’ opinions, has been pivotal. This mindset, though often reiterated, can be challenging to implement, especially for those transitioning from an academic background.

The main challenge I’ve faced would be to conform to perceived norms or expectations. Though sometimes necessary it can stifled your creative expression. Embracing authenticity has been an ongoing journey, enabling me to create music that resonates with my true artistic vision.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Before earning my Bachelor’s degree in Music Production and Engineering at Berklee College of Music, I had a successful career as a guitarist, opening concerts for bands like “All Time Low” and “Panic! At The Disco”. Having grown up both in Spain and the United States, I have a musical sensibility that blends pop, rock, and urban Latin music. Currently based in Los Angeles, I have produced for artists such as the Mr.305 legends Pitbull and Omar Courtz, Indian superstar Raja Kumari, Singaporean standout lullaboy, and Berlin dance duo YouNotUs. My music has been featured in series and films like “The Kardashians”, “Never Have I Ever”, and the blockbuster “Jawan”. I have also worked as an engineer and mixer for artists like Lil John and Willow Smith, among others.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

I’ve often found it challenging to articulate a specific goal or mission in my creative journey. However, I’ve come to the realization that, for me, there isn’t a singular end destination. My aspiration is to maintain a continuous stream of creativity throughout my life. Whatever level of success accompanies this journey is welcomed as a natural outcome. As long as I can sustain a livelihood through my creative endeavors, I consider my mission fulfilled.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

In my opinion, responsibility for supporting artists does not solely lie with society. Instead, it’s upon us artists to produce compelling work that captures society’s attention amidst competing interests. While the immediacy of modern life is challenging, I believe it begins within the artistic community itself.

From my experience, it’s common to witness artists focused on individual success, which can lead to a sense of isolation rather than one of community. Going to fellow artists’ events is cool, but true community emerges when artists actively engage in each other’s lives, drawing inspiration from shared experiences. This sense of interconnectedness not only enriches our artistic endeavors but also creates a more appealing narrative than the art itself.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larrazanacho/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nacho-larraza-301773172/