This month marks a huge milestone for beloved Newcastle-based Nano, as he celebrates 10 years of performing as a solo artist in the region. What began in 2015 as a dream to perform more authentically and independently has grown into a career built on resilience, reinvention, and heart.
After moving to Newcastle in June 2015, Nano made a bold shift, from playing in rock bands and busking in the streets, determined to carve out his own space as a solo performer. “I had to teach myself how to play guitar acoustically and entertain a whole new crowd,” he recalls. “It wasn’t just about the music anymore, it became about the business. What do I bring to a venue? Why would they want me there?”
With music at the centre of everything he does, Nano took early lessons seriously; pacing himself, seeking vocal and resistance training, and listening to feedback from venues and agents. “I’d lose my voice after one or two gigs when I first started,” he says. “One venue gave me some constructive criticism one day and it made me step up. It changed everything.”
Embracing his Spanish roots, Nano introduced Latin and reggae flavours into his sets – genres rarely heard on the local pub circuit at the time. Despite early resistance (“I was told not to play too much Spanish music”), the response from audiences was overwhelming. His unique style led to more themed events and helped shift perceptions in the live music scene. “I was just being myself, bringing something different. And the crowds loved it.”
Growing up speaking only Spanish until the age of eight, Nano’s musical upbringing was steeped in Latino culture. As he immersed himself in English-language music, he also made it a mission to expose others to the songs and sounds of his heritage. “Latino themed events started becoming more regular, but at first, I was the only one performing that style of music. It’s added a spice and diversity I’m really proud of.”
A major turning point came when Nano signed with EAO Entertainment. “I wasn’t sure I would align with an agency’s business model, but EAO just felt right. It took everything to the next level – how I sound, how I look, how I present myself. The standards went up, and so did the opportunities.”
Like many performers, Nano adapted during COVID, diving into livestreams and exploring new tools like loop pedals to evolve his sound. But what’s remained constant is his passion for giving people joy. He credits his partner Kim for grounding him with perspective: “To me it might be another gig, but to someone in the crowd, it’s a night off, a core memory. I’m there to enrich their life at that moment.”
Now, 10 years in, Nano is reflective but grateful. “It’s still wild to be paid to do something I love. I’ve made lifelong friends, played at people’s weddings, and helped create memories. Giving up weekends is a big ask, but music has the power to heal and to connect, and that’s why I do it.”
“To everyone who’s booked me, danced with me, and supported me along the way, thank you. Thank you to Terry, Lisa, and the entire EAO team. I’ll never stop being thankful for this massive opportunity.”
Here’s to the next 10 years, Nano!
