Singer/Songwriter Daniel Sobrino Talks to All Access Writer, Nicole DeRosa About Singing With Stevie Wonder And More!
At the age of 19, singer-songwriter, Daniel Sobrino moved to Los Angeles and picked up the piano as his principal instrument and began crafting his own songs. He quickly discovered that journey was taking him on the best ride of his life, discovering new colors and sounds with his instrument of choice.
“I express my feelings through music. Let my music move you and take you wherever your thoughts and imagination want to go,” he proclaims.
Daniel’s biggest musical influences are: Ryan Tedder, Sia, Adele, John Legend, Coldplay and Regina Spektor. At the end of 2011, Sobrino performed alongside Justin Bieber and Drake at the “A Time to Love” event with the legendary Stevie Wonder at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles. Daniel Sobrino has since been taking Los Angeles by storm with his undeniably beautiful voice and original viewpoint on songwriting. His latest EP, Born Again, was released alongside two music videos for the singles “Box” and “Lights,” both available for viewing on YouTube. His goal is to make his art a true and honest reflection of his own personality.
All Access Music Group writer, Nicole DeRosa got to bend Daniel’s ear and ask a few questions to find out what’s on the horizon for the young up and coming singer / songwriter:
How would you describe your music?
Honest.
Where did you grow up? How did your location influence your style?
I was born and raised in Mexico City. I was influenced a lot by my mom’s part of the family since most of them are singers/musicians just for fun so that’s how I got my passion for music. We always covered a lot of Beatles songs and Elton John tunes.
At the end of 2011, you performed alongside Justin Bieber and Drake at the “A Time to Love” event with the legendary Stevie Wonder at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles. Can you describe what that was like?
It was amazing! I didn’t play a lot live at that time so it was crazy to play one of my first gigs on such a huge venue, I was extremely nervous but thankful to share the stage with a true legend.
Your latest EP, Born Again, was released alongside two music videos for the singles “Box” and “Lights.” Can you tell me about the inspiration for those songs?
Box was inspired in the experiences I’ve had when I was a kid and it’s also dedicated to all the kids that have take their life because of bullying.
Lights for me is about feeling lonely even when you’re in the most crowded places. Like when you’re at a club or a party and you’re around lots of people but still feel like you don’t fit in.
What cds or albums are on your playlist right now?
I listen to many different artist every week because I’m always looking to get inspired by different sounds but my inspirations at the moment are: Coldplay, Jónsi, Florence & The Machine, Adele, Ryan Tedder (One Republic), John Legend, Sia etc.
Do you have any hidden talents we don’t know about that you would like to share?
Mmmm haha nope I can’t dance, maybe act one day…
What advice would you have for other bands and artists who are trying to succeed in the music industry and maintain their identity?
Be consistent, work hard and never stop practicing your instrument. There’s always something new to learn so it’s important to have an open mind to keep learning new things and keep growing as an artist.
Can you describe your writing process for us?
It always changes but most of the times I just throw myself to the piano and start singing random melodies then some words pop out and I get the concept of the song but other times I just have an idea or a strong concept and just create a melody from that.
What’s up next for you this year?
Recording a full length album that I don’t know what I’m doing with yet. lol
I’m probably dividing it into 2 Ep’s (5 songs each). I’m taking time writing and recording this album since I want it to be very special and personal. I can’t wait for people to hear it. It’s very me.