Q&A: Multi-Talented Artist Na-Kel Smith Takes the Stage at Camp Flog Gnaw
INTERVIEW
INTERVIEW
☆ BY SOPHIE GRAGG ☆
NA-KEL SMITH, THE MULTIFACETED ARTIST KNOWN FOR HIS SKATEBOARDING, ACTING, AND MUSIC, made a memorable appearance at Camp Flog Gnaw 2024. His energetic performance and infectious charisma captivated the audience, showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Smith's recent collaboration with MIKE, "BEEN HAD," is a testament to his growth as a musician. The track, produced by Smith himself, blends introspective lyrics with a high-energy beat, showcasing his unique style and sound.
As Smith continues to explore his creative endeavors, his impact on music, film, and skateboarding is undeniable. With his authentic approach and dedication to his craft, he is poised to become one of the most influential figures of his generation. Read below to learn more about how he approaches collaborations, his different creative outlets and more.
LUNA: We saw your performance earlier today for the 10th anniversary. It was high-energy from both you and the crowd! Can you tell us a bit about how you prepared for the set?
SMITH: DJ Westside Ty and I got the setlist together. Me and Jahmad got the stage visuals together. We just went to rehearsal, prepared for it like any other show.
LUNA: You've also got a new track with MIKE and you've collaborated with a lot of different artists over the years. What do you look for in a collaborator, and how did this particular collaboration come about?
SMITH: Well, Mike's my brother, so it kind of came out naturally. We were just chilling on the couch, vibing, and talking about it. It's a good one too. It was about time we did something together.
LUNA: Is there anyone at the festival you haven't worked with yet that you'd like to collaborate with?
SMITH: There's a lot of people I'd work with - Sexy Redd I always try to collaborate naturally, though. Let it come naturally.
LUNA: With new music, are you finding yourself drawn to a common theme sonically?
SMITH: A lot of stuff has happened in my life, so it's getting a little more serious. My music's getting a little more serious, more introspective, as much as I like to be animated. I'm still trying to figure out how to label it, though.
LUNA: Music is just one form of creative expression for you. You also do acting and skateboarding. Do you feel like these other avenues influence your music, or are they separate pockets?
SMITH: They all influence the music.
LUNA: What are your intentions for the rest of the year?
SMITH: Just keep working hard. I love the holiday season in LA because everyone else takes time off, but I don't rest. That's why I like it - you get a different kind of creative freedom. No one's asking you to do anything specific. There's a different vibe in the scene, a little joy with the holidays and wintertime and all that.
