Meet Ireland’s Neo-Soul Royalty

Introduction

Negro Impacto, the Dundalk-based duo have surely been making an impacto on the Irish scene since their debut in 2021. Their unique blend of soulful vocals, groove-infused basslines and funky lo-fi beats is what draws you in. Comprised of lead vocalist ChiChi and multi-instrumentalist and producer StrangeLove, their music radiates a fresh and endearing energy that bridges neo-soul, R&B, funk, and hip hop. With their effortless stage presence, their quirky visuals, and reputation on the Irish scene, they’re proving that they’re not just a band, they are a movement. 

Early Journey

Living within 2km of each other during lockdown, they first met at a skateboard park in Dundalk. Their conversation on music first began after ChiChi posted a Phineas and Ferb cover. This conversation led to Laurence (aka StrangeLove) sending ChiChi a beat for their first track ‘Lockdown Syndrome.’ We have been graced by their infectious beats ever since. From then on, the duo continued making music together in the vibrant music scene of Dundalk. As natives of the town, it’s clear their surroundings had a positive effect on making the initial decision to release music.

The Sound of Negro Impacto

Their sound is hard to define, for good reason. Not only do they blend neo-soul, R&B and funk, but also indie, emo, gospel and even reggae. They draw their inspiration from a variety of artists like Eryka Badu, WILLOW, DJ Harrison, The Internet, Anderson .Paak, and Arthur Verocai. But they have swirled these inspirations into something that is uniquely their own. Describing their sound is like trying to explain why a sunset is pretty; it just is. It’s the kind of sound that makes you both want to chill out and dance, with their silky melodies, and lyrics that explore everything from love and identity to personal growth.

Notable Tracks

• ‘1800’
• ‘Maybe’
• ‘Fangirl’

Creative Process

Since lockdown, they have made the leap from ChiChi’s bedroom for writing and recording, to filling up venues for live performances and collaborating with other artists. 

If they’re not curating gigs like ‘Negro Impacto and Friends’ with other Irish rising stars like Papa Romeo, Shiv, Curtisy and more, they are collaborating with them in the creative process too. 

Laurence AKA StrangeLove is a producer in his own right and is infused in another duo with himself and Duke Dimez who have just released their latest track ‘Brb.’ ChiChi has been singing her whole life at home, in gospel choirs, in DCU and in the Netherlands where she has completed a master’s at the Utrecht University School of Law. 

Their expansive knowledge of music, collaborations and live gigs all play a part in their spontaneity and authenticity in their creative process. Whether it begins with StrangeLove experimenting with loops in his home studio, or with ChiChi’s organic melodic lyrics, it’s clear they’re not afraid to push boundaries.

Making Waves on the Irish Scene

Their extensive list of festival performances, headline gigs and collaborative projects are just a snapshot into their influence on the Irish music landscape. In a music scene primarily dominated by traditional, rock and folk influences, they make room for their captivating sound. Amongst their high-profile performances include Ireland Music Week, Other Voices, singing for the President at Áras an Uachtaráin, plus many more.

Their debut EP ‘Negro Impacto’ also received critical acclaim, which is completely deserved. Aside from their music, they are keen advocates for inclusivity and representation in Ireland’s music industry and beyond. 

What’s Next?

We cannot wait to see what’s next for these two. With their fanbase rapidly growing, Negro Impacto is on the cusp of their next big leap. Currently cooking some tunes in the studio, and having just released their track ‘1800’, we can expect great things to come. They’re not just a band to listen to or watch; they’re a band to follow and brag about discovering early.