Started In The South continues a run of standout releases for the Filipino-American rapper. Nel showed off his singing chops on consecutive releases in 2022, including the devastating "Fadeaway", a piano-led ballad dedicated to the memory of a fan who recently passed away, and the lovesick  "Toxic," a duet with rising singer Haben.

Born and raised in Stockton, a city in Northern California with a busy rap scene, MBNel built a reputation on the West Coast for his combination of hummable melodies and relatable trench tales. The 25-year-old artist has a loyal following who respond to his naked authenticity, a quality on display on his 2021 project No Hard Feelings. In the wake of last year's success, Nel is challenging himself artistically, pushing the boundaries of his sound as he continues to express his truth.

"I’m not afraid to delve deeper than what’s on the surface,” explains MBNel. “I make music like a journal.” From South Stockton’s 8th Street, Nel’s accounts of life can be grim. He achieved millions of streams through rapping about navigating the codes of the streets in the Northern California city, his Filipino-American upbringing, and trying to make a way through music. However, the 25-year-old is challenging himself and his sound. Songs like the 2021’s “Opulent”, “Shooting Stars”, and “Manifested” have been close to the heart while demonstrating depth and range that transcends rap music. Those three tracks—each at 2 million streams or better—have showcased Nel’s melodic delivery, honest songwriting, and ability to uplift audiences around the globe. “I’ve been experimenting with a whole bunch of different sounds,” he shares as he continues to amplify and expand a self-made career with a series of dynamic singles in the upcoming months.

MBMEL sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:

1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?

I think it came from my pops. He always had a thang for music, I grew up with hella music around me.

2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?

Lil Wayne, Chief keef, Nipsey Hussle, young thug, lil baby, future.

3. What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?

Ep coming called “Started in the south” dedicated to the trenches fr.

4. How would you describe your sound?

Melodic struggle rap, but that’s not even all I do, I’m so versatile I feel like I got fans for every style I do.

5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?

That’s a hard one because I’m proud of so much. I can’t honestly choose, but recent one would probably be my YouTube plaque.

6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?

Don be afraid to stand out, and don’t give up. Be consistent but really love what your doing. 

7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?

JoeMari, MB poohdi, Bnice3z, Twannymaine3z, I’m naming all the homies.

8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?

I listen to all typa’ different things. Lil baby’s, drakes, future, prolly most recent.

9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?

Spend time with my family. Or just coolin with the bros you know all regular stuff. Work on my brand/clothing other stuff to the bag.

10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?

Water, Phone, snacks.