LA artist BAMBIBOY says, The only allegiance artistically is to yourself.
BAMBIBOY, also known as Kent Navarrette, is a Los Angeles-based artist who recounts his journey navigating the underground music scene of LA to ultimately discover his unique musical style and how he knew it was time to “keep learning” for his music to grow.
How has music been a part of your life? When did you decide that you wanted to pursue it as a career?
“My journey began when I was quite young. I remember writing poems as a child, and it wasn't until the sixth grade that I discovered my love for poetry. That passion eventually led me to delve into songwriting, with "Bows and Arrows" marking my first completed song. However, navigating the music scene, especially in places like LA, posed its challenges. Initially, I found myself gravitating towards the EDM and electric-heavy underground scene, thinking it might define my sound. But as time went on, I realized that staying true to myself artistically was more important, even if it meant stepping away from certain trends or scenes.”
Can you share a bit about your background and how it has influenced your approach to creating music?
“I grew up in a household where creativity was encouraged and thanks to my mom's role as a pastor and my experiences in school choirs, those laid the foundation for my musical journey. Additionally, being exposed to my dad's Native American and Latino heritage, attending pow-wows, and having a large family, all contributed to shaping my perspective on music and life.”
Can you discuss the artists or genres that have had a profound impact on you and continue to inspire your work today?
“My musical influences are quite eclectic, much like my own style. From my early days in musical theatre to exploring different genres during my time at Santa Monica College, I've drawn inspiration from various sources. Additionally, my foray into modeling, while a different creative outlet, has also informed my approach to music. It's taught me resilience and the importance of staying true to oneself, even in industries where conformity is often encouraged.”
Being based in Los Angeles, a hub for artistic expression, must have influenced your music and career. Can you share how the local scene has impacted you, and have you collaborated with other musicians in the area?
“When I moved to LA it felt I had to fit in the scene LA’s music has present heavily. Over time and through new artist connections I was able to discover how I wanted to go about making music that makes me happy. I have been able to meet artists like Jamie Love, a pop artist who is in LA, Princess of the Underground, Friend Planet 419 an alt rapper in LA, Hazy Shea, and Ines Lalonde who I listen to her record to death.”
Reflecting on your discography, is there a particular song or project that holds special significance for you?
“They are all very important to me and each has a specific message that I have experienced in my own life. Sport is the most personal as it is about a very toxic relationship that describes what I was going through during that time. The Magician was inspired when I got into Tarot card reading and numerology. I found it interesting how every person has their own life path number, and mine was The Magician and Life Path 1. The Magician card signifies being in the spotlight, manifesting dreams and goals and life. My life path number 1 is described as the first to leave home and gravitate towards some sort of stage. Both of these ring true to my life.”
Are there any particular themes or messages you aim to convey through your music, and how important is it for you to connect with your audience on an emotional level?
”I am hugely inspired by the David Bowie documentary “Moonage Daydream" and how David Bowie created his stage persona, Ziggy Stardust. BAMBIBOY is my own persona and lets me wipe my feet at the end of the night and be able to be myself.”
Photos of BAMBIBOY by Grace Pickering
Are there non-musical factors that have shaped your creative perspective?
“My niece is nine years old and serves as a massive inspiration for me. She holds the title of my favorite person in the world. Being able to see her embrace childhood with uninhibited freedom and the absence of self-judgment continues to fill me with inspiration. I have struggled with thoughts of self-doubt, worrying about whether people will understand my music, but her mere existence serves as a lovely reminder, to make music for myself. Another huge inspiration is my grandfather, a Professor at UC Davis, whose wisdom and the rhythm of his speech, impacted the way I go about things.”
On a more personal note, what's one thing about you that people might be surprised to learn?
“I am a heart-on-my-sleeve kinda person. People are surprised by how internal I can be and how much I value my alone time. As an artist, you are used to being extroverted, and the times I have to myself are important to me. Also, my spiritual connection is a huge part of myself and I don’t have a particular method of spirituality or thought, but have been able to form my guiding part internally.”
What advice do you have for aspiring musicians, especially those trying to make it in Los Angeles? Are there any lessons you've learned along the way that you wish you knew when you started?
“I was a writer first and foremost but had a hard time figuring out how to create a song and grasp the basics of music theory. Take time to take classes and grow your skills. When I took the time to learn, I leveled up as an artist. The structure is great, but ultimately, it is the freedom and play that really create something special. Continue to stay true to yourself and your vision. Embrace your uniqueness and don't be afraid to experiment. And most importantly, don't underestimate the power of networking and seeking guidance from mentors or peers.”
