In the vast and diverse landscape of music, there are artists who carve their own unique paths, blending genres and styles to create something truly special. One such artist is NTHN, a UK cloud rap artist, producer, and member of the independent collective eighteenSAINT. NTHN’s musical journey is a testament to the power of self-discovery and the evolution of an artist finding their voice amidst a wide range of influences. During his early years, NTHN immersed himself in the world of emo and metal music, finding solace and connection in raw emotions and powerful melodies. However, as time passed, he discovered hip-hop and was immediately captivated by its use of samples and production techniques. This newfound fascination led him to explore ambient instrumental hip hop, manipulating old recordings and street samples to create his own unique sonic tapestry. Drawing inspiration from artists like Deftones and shoegaze musicians, as well as Cloud Rap pioneers like Clams Casino, xxyyxx, and Shlohmo, NTHN’s dark ambient style began to take shape. At first, NTHN’s musical creations were purely instrumental, as he allowed his skills as a producer to shine. But destiny had other plans for him. Upon discovering emo rap artists like Lil Peep and Brennan Savage, he realized that he had found a genre that perfectly merged all his musical influences. This revelation marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career, where he decided to add his own vocals to his tracks, infusing them with raw and honest lyrics reflecting his personal experiences. Describing his creative process as “cloudsampling,” NTHN has developed a distinctive approach to music-making. He transforms everyday street samples into layered, airy soundscapes, creating an ethereal and immersive listening experience for his audience. Drawing vocal inspiration from artists like Oliver Francis and 6LACK, NTHN uses his music as a platform to break down the stigma surrounding men’s mental health, advocating for vulnerability and emotional expression. Recently, NTHN released his newest single, titled “First.” The track is a moody R&B masterpiece, narrating the tale of meeting the love of his life and reminiscing about their first date. The release date holds a special significance, as it marks their one-year anniversary, down to the exact time he first laid eyes on her at 6 pm. The lyrics of “First” originated as heartfelt notes in his phone when he was coming to terms with the depth of his feelings for his partner. As their year together unfolded, he revisited those notes and decided to craft a song that encapsulates the emotions and excitement of their initial encounter. Influenced by talented artists like 6lack and Bryson Tiller, “First” serves as the opening track of the EP NTHN is currently working on, dedicated entirely to their love story. With each song, he seeks to share their journey, emotions, and growth, inviting listeners to be a part of their deeply personal narrative. NTHN’s music not only reflects his artistic evolution but also serves as a conduit for emotional connection with his listeners. Through his unique blend of cloud rap, ambient sounds, and emotive lyrics, he has found a true sense of purpose as an artist, transcending genres to create something that is undeniably his own. As we eagerly await the release of his EP, let us embrace the honesty and vulnerability that NTHN brings to the forefront of his music. He is an artist who reminds us that sharing our stories, struggles, and triumphs can be a powerful means of breaking down barriers and fostering compassion in a world that often lacks understanding. In NTHN’s sonic universe, vulnerability is not a weakness but a strength, and his music is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cloudsampling/