Exclusive Interview: Nelson Diaz Talks New Single “Love” and Forthcoming Album

Nelson Diaz is a rising pianist and composer to keep your eye on. He’s quickly made a name for himself in the Los Angeles music scene as well as on social media with his undeniable talent.

Last month, he dropped his debut single “Pleasure” and is now following that release with “Love.”

Pop Culturalist was lucky enough to speak with Nelson about his thriving career, “Love,” and more!

PC: How did you discover your passion for music?
Nelson: My mother put me in piano classes after school when I was six. I hope it was for the right reasons. [laughs] I’m grateful.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your music?
Nelson: Watching and playing basketball. Basketball is a metaphor for life. There’s a reason it’s popular. It teaches you to balance your ego with the idea of surrendering to the flow of everything around you. I also love Ray Charles.

PC: What is your creative process like as you’re working on a new song?
Nelson: I try to wake up and record something every morning. For some reason that is the best time. Probably because I am naked and there is nothing to hide. Most composers say writing feels more like discovering something, at least when it’s good. I agree with that. You’re foggier in the morning and probably more likely to stumble across something.

PC: “Love” is off your forthcoming album. Is there anything that you can tell us about The Energy Album?
Nelson: Every song is meant to represent something everyone goes through. An emotion or feeling. I like these simple titles because they give a little direction but leave most of it to the imagination. I tried to push towards whatever feeling I was playing for.

PC: If you had to pick a song off of The Energy Album that best encompasses who you are as an artist, which would it be and why?
Nelson: I wrote a song called “Death.” It’s not as depressing as it sounds. I try to tell a story or at least present an idea. That has always been my favorite part about music: the ability to share an idea that is more descriptive and human than anything that can be spoken.

To keep up with Nelson, follow him on Instagram, Spotify, and Apple Music.