As a versatile, vital, and visionary creator, ARLO tells stories through multiple avenues. No matter the medium, his stories hold truth, facing failure, loss, mental health, and life’s challenges head- on. The London-born Nigerian artist, actor, and creative projects his experience through a kaleidoscope of R&B, pop, and alternative vibes uplifted by his unpredictable vocal delivery and sky scraping range. His music feels like experiencing a moment of personal revelation teeming with newfound confidence in its soulful catharsis and exuding excitement for a brighter future via fascinating soundscape architecture.
You have many creative facets. How would you define yourself?
I describe myself as a true creative, a multi-hyphenate of sorts. I love all fields of entertainment. Music will always be my first love but, I also enjoy TV, film, theatre, and books. I just love being creative and collaborating.
What’s the form of art you think it’s the best outlet for you
There’s something about music; it’s immediate. It gives you a feeling straight away. Sometimes you don’t get that with other forms of art; you need to live with it a little longer to figure out how it made you feel. Music is so visceral, which is why it is a true passion for me.
How did you fall in love with art as a child?
I was more of an academic growing up and enjoyed English, Science, and Sociology. I didn’t discover my passion for the arts until I heard Amy Winehouse. That made me immediately fall in love with music, lyrics, and her.
What makes this release special to you?
I’m not a very open person. So, I think for a lot of people looking at me, they assume I’ve got it together. This was an exciting opportunity to showcase my vulnerability. It reveals a softer, more emotional side of what I do. I’m just glad it gets to live on record forever now.
How did you come up with the idea?
The song is autobiographical. I remember being in the studio shortly after my mum passed away. People would ask me how I was doing and I would reply with, “How much time do you have?” It’s a long-winded convoluted answer that isn’t simply just a yes or no. I noticed they didn’t care; not in a bad way. It’s just that they all have their own issues and problems. Everybody is going through something. You have to give yourself and others a little grace to figure it all out.
What RnB artist is a reference to you?
I love Terence Trent D’Arby, and Frank Ocean (I think he is the King.) I like what Fridayy is doing; it moves me. There’s an artist called Easton Fitz; he has the most amazing voice. I’m a big fan of Labrinth; he is a genius. Victoria Monet, Kwabz, Shakka, Rationale, Bipolar Sunshine; there are so many to choose from!
What RnB artist is the most innovative for our generation?
That’s a tough question. There are so many like Beyonce, Frank Ocean, Amy Winehouse. There’s a lot.
How did your Nigerian heritage influence your creative process?
I wouldn’t say it plays that big of a role in what I do in terms of being creative but, it’s my culture. It’s something I’m aware of and try to integrate if there’s space for where it makes sense.
