During a recent trip to Detroit to check out the music scene, rolling out discovered this up-and-coming artist performing his hit single,”We’re Hangin out Tonight” at UDetroit Cafe. With his Miguel-esque sound, this true R&B singer with an ear for what’s cutting edge is wise beyond his years and one to watch for in the near future.
–roz edward
Government name: Darryl McClendon
Stage name: Nuke
What inspired you to get into music?
Watching and listening to people like Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye, Al Green and my pops back in the day. My father is Ishmael Melton and he worked with some of the best in the business. I followed him around and learned to love it, he instilled me with the passion for music.
What are you proudest of in your own career?
Coming from recording in the basement to getting to performing on stage in front of large crowds. I’ve worked at some great venues like Irock, Rent, Nikki’s, Elysium and the 1701 Bar. I get to work with a lot of Detroit artists like Tome Tome, Stretch Money and Doughboyz Cashout.
Who are you listening to and who has influenced your music”
Right now, it’s Miguel, but I’m also a huge fan of R. Kelly. His “When a Woman Loves,” is a personal favorite. I’m also listening to Trey Songz and Usher a lot. When I heard Usher’s My Way album that really opened me up and helped set a course for my music. Basically, I like the real R&B from back in the day.
How does that music compare to yours?
They are similar in that they are both passionate ways to tell a story. My music is the story of what I have seen and what I have been through; you can hear my pain and feel the passion as well as the grind.
What’s your advice for other emerging artists?
Just do you. You can’t do it like anybody else and when you try to imitate somebody else’s sound, that’s what it ends up being … an imitation. Original is always better, so find your lane and get in it.
What’s next for you?
I’m looking at signing with Universal soon and dropping my mixtape.
