Artist Spotlight: Local Artist Nate Shy Reflects on His Journey from Brawley to the Stage

For 24-year-old rapper, singer, and songwriter Nate Shy, music has always been about his personal life and struggles. Whether it’s hip-hop, R&B, pop, or something in between, he always lets inspiration guide the sound whatever hits in the moment is what he writes to.

Born Nathanial Aguirre and raised in Brawley, Shy says the Imperial Valley has played a big role in shaping both his creativity and perspective. “Growing up around agriculture and in a mostly Mexican community gave me a love for that old-school sound,” he says. “And the heat out here? It really does bring something different out of you sometimes.”

He first started writing music during his senior year at Brawley Union High School in late 2017, right when the SoundCloud wave was at its peak. Encouraged by friends who were also getting into music, Shy found his voice early on—even though many of those friends have since stepped away from music. “I’m still grateful for them,” he says. “No matter how far this takes me.”

His musical influences run deep. Thanks to his dad’s diverse taste in music, Shy grew up on everything from Prince and Michael Jackson to E-40. But locally, he says it was Eddie Zuko who really showed him what was possible. “I’ve been lucky enough to tell him how much he inspired me to start,” he shares.

When it comes to describing his sound, Shy prefers to keep it open. “The element of surprise that’s probably the best way to describe it,” he says. “I’ve got so many tracks out there, and even more I’ve taken down. I just follow what sounds right in the moment.”

One of his favorite memories so far was opening for Obed Padilla in Santa Ana—his first time performing outside of the Valley. “It was wild seeing a crowd of strangers vibe with my music,” he says. “It made me realize this could really go further than just home.”

On June 20, Shy released his self-titled EP “Nate Shy”, marking a new chapter in his journey. He’s also picked up some notable recognition, including airplay on 98.3 FM and a feature on Spotify’s editorial playlist Our Wave Nuestro Hip-Hop, which highlights Latino artists in the U.S. hip-hop scene.

As a Mexican-American artist, he says support from the local community has meant everything. “It really keeps you going,” he says. “Sometimes you’re having a rough day and someone reaches out to say you inspire them. That means more than people know.”

Looking ahead, Shy plans to expand—whether it’s playing more out-of-town shows, working with new producers, or teaming up with other artists. “I’ll always rep the Valley, but I want to take this further.”

For younger artists just starting out in the area, his message is clear: “Get yourself a solid team. Keep pushing. Stay delusional. Some days you’ll feel on top of the world, and other days you’ll feel like you’re at the bottom. Just keep creating—you’re not alone in feeling that.”