Welcome, Nello Player

Hailing from the tropical paradise of Belize, up-and-coming recording artist, Nello Player, born Kernelle Nykonie Parks, is a true artist at heart, in mind and body. Born on March 1, 1979 and raised in Belize City, Nello is currently employed by the National Institute of Creative Arts of Belize and spends a greater deal of his free time in the studio.

Nello’s interest in music goes all the way to the tender age of ten. At that time, he was highly influenced by both parents who are avid music lovers. Nello Player then nurtured his own unique style and found musical inspiration in the music of his time, then the sound systems of Jamaica such as Stone Love movements, David Rodigan, King Addis (Tony Matterhorn and Baby Face, to name a few. Legendary reggae artists such as Alton Ellis, Delroy Wilson, Dennis Brown, Bob Marley, Tenor Saw, Steel Pulse. While other artists such as Shabba Ranks, Junior Demus, Bounty Killa, Beenie Man, and Buju Banton has highly influenced his musical style, especially when touching base with his “rude bwai” style. The Player states that “whenever I start writing a song and thinking about music, I think about making music like Bob Marley…songs that will live on and stand the test of time. I always think about his positive message in the music and still not overshadowing his at times rude bwai side and persona.”

During the summer of 2005, Nello Player recorded his first song at Heights of Vibe studio entitled ‘Dream’, a collaboration with Jah Thunda, a reggae artist of David House, home of Reggae dancehall veteran Capleton, in Jamaica. And that is the primary goal of the Player’s debut ‘mixtape’ album, “Collective Insight”. Every song on the album was written and produced by the talented artist. The Player was featured on the Poor and Famous album which featured 17 of Belize's most high profile talents, including T.R., Young C, the versatile Organizer/producer who created the music riddims, Positive Vibes. Most recently added to Nello’s music portfolio is the co-establishment of friend and Producer, Young C’s Determined to Hustle record label. This effort has spun a wheel of new productions and hit tunes that have further lead to the riddim release of the acclaimed compilation called ‘Video Touch’. Presently Nello Player is working on his official Debut Album, which is schedule for release 2010.

In addition to The Player being known primarily for his involvement in music, he has a natural talent as an oil and acrylic painter, making him an artist in the true sense.

The Player’s music is played on numerous radio stations throughout Belize. Nello Player has performed at shows throughout Belize and continues to distribute his music to the radio stations and local deejays throughout Belize and abroad. “I love the idea of music being an avenue of expression…a worldwide acceptance no matter race, color or creed.” Kernelle believes that “music if used the right way can be a method of spreading a positive and universal message.”

Nello Player continues to develop beats and write music that will sooth his soul and touch the hearts of listeners who dares to delve in his creative material. This emerging artist knows what he wants and is determined to achieve his dreams and aspirations.