Leopold Nunan is a Brazilian-born, Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter and performance artist whose journey is as dynamic as his music. Hailing from Rio de Janeiro, Leopold’s artistic identity is deeply intertwined with his immigrant experience. His life story is one of resilience, passion, and an unrelenting pursuit of artistic freedom. From the vibrant, samba-infused culture of Brazil to the bustling creative epicenter of Los Angeles, Leopold has carved out a space where his eclectic influences shine. Known for his electrifying performances and a genre-defying sound, Leopold’s music blends Brazilian rhythms with rock, tropicalismo, and global influences.
His debut album, “Leo From Rio”, encapsulates this unique fusion, presenting a bold narrative of self-expression and cultural pride. Leopold draws inspiration from a diverse range of legends, including the raw power of David Coverdale, the poetic depth of Brazilian icon Cazuza, and the boundary-pushing artistry of Grace Jones. His music is not only a celebration of his heritage but also a reflection of his immigrant journey—a tale of sacrifices, dreams, and the courage to start anew. Leopold’s work has been fueled by his relentless determination as an independent artist. From driving for Uber to working at Costco, he has hustled tirelessly to finance his dreams.
Receiving a grant from the Music Forward Foundation was a turning point for him, allowing him to realize his vision for “Leo From Rio”. The album, a genuine work of passion, serves as proof of his determination and the power of his artistic expression. On November 14th, 2024, Leopold Nunan revealed his newest work: the music video for “5 Meters”. This long-awaited debut is more than just a music video; it’s a stunning work of visuals that combine cinematic grace with authentic emotional narrative. Filmed on the rainy roads of Seattle, the video captures the classic look of Film Noir, channeling the raw allure of Old Hollywood.
Leopold Nunan’s “5 Meters” is a rock anthem that captivates from its first haunting notes to its triumphant conclusion. The song begins with a chillingly ethereal melody, a meditative blend of sustained bass and symphonic vocal harmonies. This opening feels otherworldly, pulling listeners into a reflective, emotional space before transitioning into the driving, high-energy rock elements that define the track. The gradual build-up from calm introspection to bold resilience mirrors the thematic essence of the song: overcoming life’s obstacles with determination and hope.
Nunan’s vocal performance is a standout feature of “5 Meters”. The opening sections showcase his ability to channel vulnerability with soft, soothing tones, setting the stage for the emotional journey to come. As the song progresses, his voice grows more commanding, embodying the strength and resolve of the narrative. This evolution in vocal delivery, paired with exquisite backing harmonies, enriches the song’s texture and emotional depth. It’s a testament to Nunan’s versatility and artistic control, effortlessly shifting between emotive introspection and raw, unrestrained power.
The instrumentation of “5 Meters” is equally compelling. The bass provides a grounding foundation that evolves into a rhythmic powerhouse, driving the song forward. Bold guitar riffs, expertly performed by Libra, add layers of intensity, while the drumbeats inject a groovy, infectious energy. Together, these elements create a soundscape that is both dynamic and cohesive. The production, led by Alberto Menezes, ensures that every component—from the eerie ambiance to the soaring rock crescendos—is balanced to perfection, making the track an immersive listening experience.
The music video for “5 Meters” amplifies the song’s impact, combining cinematic elegance with emotional storytelling. Shot on the rain-soaked streets of Seattle, the video adopts a Film Noir aesthetic, drawing inspiration from classic Hollywood legends like Humphrey Bogart and Robert Mitchum. This black-and-white cinematography enhances the song’s themes of resilience and transformation, creating a visual narrative that complements its musical journey. The opening drone shots and shadowy imagery echo the haunting introduction of the track, setting a reflective tone that evolves alongside the music.
Leopold Nunan’s styling in the video is a perfect reflection of the song’s balance between timeless elegance and modern boldness. His vintage Borsalino hat, inherited from his Hollywood mentor Mickey Cottrell, paired with a sleek Halston raincoat and a Tiffany & Co. silver necklace, exudes sophistication and charisma. This careful attention to detail in his attire not only highlights Nunan’s presence as a performer but also aligns with the video’s Film Noir influences, further emphasizing its cinematic quality.
As the video progresses, the visuals grow more dynamic, paralleling the song’s transition from introspection to resilience. The electrifying scenes of Nunan performing against the gritty urban backdrop of Seattle reflect the emotional crescendo of the music. The interplay between light and shadow, combined with the high-energy performance shots, creates a visual representation of hope and triumph. The video serves as more than just a companion to the song, it elevates it into a multi-sensory experience that is as visually compelling as it is musically powerful.
Thematically, the essence of “5 Meters” deeply connects with the human experiences of facing challenges and persisting. It encapsulates the anxiety and doubt of entering unfamiliar territory, especially for migrants like Nunan, who have departed their native countries to pursue aspirations in foreign territories. However, it also applauds the resilience and optimism that come from these experiences. The empowering story in the song inspires listeners to face their obstacles with bravery and resolve, establishing it as a universal anthem for resilience and personal growth.
“5 Meters” is a successful combination of artistry, blending memorable musicality, passionate performances, and cinematic visuals into a unified masterpiece. The song and its music video complement each other perfectly, amplifying the emotional depth and impact. Leopold Nunan didn’t just make a song, he produced an anthem for those who have overcome challenges and grown stronger. “5 Meters” is essential to hear and see, confirming Nunan’s position as a promising figure in the indie music industry.
For more information about Leopold Nunan, click on the icons below.
