Orlando Mendez’s Latest — “Sometimes the best stories come out of some bad decisions.”
Can you tell us a bit more about your background and how you got into songwriting?
I was born and raised in Miami, FL to a Cuban-American family. I began songwriting at a very early age. I’ve always loved poetry and remember writing poems for family members as a young kid. This love for words grew until I finally learned how to play guitar during the pandemic and began to write full-blown songs.
Who were your earliest musical influences?
Some of my earliest musical influences were bands my dad loved. These included U2, Dave Matthews Band, Pearl Jam, and Creed. I also grew up in South Florida surrounded by the tropical sounds of Jimmy Buffett.
What does your nickname The Cuban Cowboy mean to you?
This nickname means a lot to me and is an honor to carry. It represents my family and where I’m from. My grandparents were farmers back in Cuba (called “guajiros”) for generations before the Castro regime. They left that island which was their home to pursue a better life for their children and their kid’s kids here in America. I am proud to honor them by taking on this nickname.
How would you describe your musical style?
My music is honest and authentic. I live life with my heart on my sleeve and like to think my music does the same thing. It is country music that tells stories inspired by my life and the lives of those around me. A lot of the subject matter and stories I tell revolve around the water because that is where I was raised- always by the ocean.
What did you learn from your time on The Voice?
I learned to embrace what makes me unique. I am a country singer with a different story and background than most country singers, but that’s cool. During that time on the show they encouraged us to embrace those differences and what makes us stand out as artists.
“Bad Decisions” is an electrifying country-rock anthem. Produced by the acclaimed Nick Worley and penned by Mendez, the song is a thrilling sonic journey filled with heart-pounding guitar riffs and a powerhouse musical performance.
Featuring a talented ensemble of musicians, including Greg Morrow, Glenn Worf, Biff Watson, Mike Rojas, Jerry McPherson, and Russ Pahl, the inspiration behind “Bad Decisions” revolves around the idea of living in the moment and creating unforgettable memories. Mendez describes it as a refreshing departure from his usual style, drawing from his rock influences and revealing a different facet of his artistry. In his own words, “Sometimes the best stories come out of some bad decisions.”
What is the most important message you want to convey through your music?
I want to encourage people to live life fully- embrace the highs and the lows. My music is honest about the great moments in my life and also about the heartbreak of the journey along the way. Life is amazing and worth living passionately not passively.
Getting ready to release your EP, Where I Am Right Now. The songs will invite listeners into your journey, the highs and the lows. How has your family’s support helped you throughout your career?
My family means everything to me. I have had some great success but a lot of rejection and failure in my life. My family has been there every step of the way encouraging me. My parents and my brothers are a huge inspiration and one of the biggest reasons I dream so big and work so hard. I hope this EP, and all the work that has gone into it, makes them proud!
What’s ahead in 2024?
2024 is going to be an incredible year for me and my music! I have a few singles coming out in early 2024 and then my debut EP is slated for the spring. Also in the works is a full-length album for later in the year. Next year will also be a lot of touring and bringing my live show to my fans all across the country!