INTRODUCING: PRIDO
We caught wind of Prido at Manchester’s inaugural music conference, Beyond The Music, in mid-October, and his set cemented him as one of the country’s most exciting up-and-coming artists. Prido offers a seamless blend of genres, boundless energy, and effortless interaction with the crowd, and has a star power recognised by BBC Radio 1 and 1extra, and Factory International.
We spoke to Prido about how his upbringing in Zambia and Manchester have shaped his sound, his creative beginnings, and his plans for the future.
Interview by PORTIA BRAJKOVIC
Hey Prido, how are you today?
I'm good thanks! Hopefully the rain stops in Manchester
Can you sum up your sound in 3 words?
Positive, energetic, different.
How did you get your start in music? Was it something you always gravitated towards?
I used to sing in church when I was younger, so my love for melodies stemmed from there. When I got older, I tapped into grime and hip-hop, and then tried to add my two cents to it.
You’re Manchester-raised. How has this shaped your music and artistry?
I was actually born in Zambia, but I have lived in Manchester for pretty much half of my life. I love this city. It’s a melting pot for different cultures, so being in such an environment has influenced the way I carry myself and flow on beats.
“Beyond The Music was such a special event. The crowd I performed to was not my usual brand, but the energy was crazy. It showed me that music is spiritual and beyond genre.”
As part of BTM you’ve been featured by BBC Introducing, amongst a host of exciting up-and-coming talent. You played in the bbc1xtra Manchester Showcase on 1 November - can you describe a Prido live set for those that aren’t familiar?
Yeah the energy on this one was crazy. My music is a fusion of afro, grime and hip-hop. My set is normally a storyline through the genres. Expect high energy, conscious melodies, and sexy afro vibes for the singles and couples in the building.
What does your creative process generally look like?
At this point, I’m more organic. I gravitate towards sounds my soul is comfortable with. I try to approach creation from a pure place.
Dream venue to perform it? And your dream collaboration?
Dream venue at the moment is the O2 Arena. My dream collaboration would be Kendrick Lamar or Wizkid.
What would we find on your Spotify playlist?
I’ve been listening to more Manchester artists. I’m also listening to Vic Mensa’s new album a lot.
What’s next for you?
More Music, more happiness and bigger shows!
My short term goal is to start gigging at local places and