Tell us about yourself as an artist/musician. What do you do?

I've been a semi-professional singer for several years or so as a member of different a cappella groups. I've dabbled in songwriting and am working on original music. My artistic choices lean towards lo-fi, pop, and R&B. I'm excited to continue exploring and experimenting to see where things go.

How long have you been making music, and what sparked your interest in music?

Music and performance were a cultural norm growing up in a Filipino house and with Filipino friends. I've been singing for as long as I can remember. It started with karaoke at home, and as I've met new friends and musicians over the years, I've been exposed to different genres of music. So my musical tastes have evolved. I appreciate many things, from punk rock to pop to soul to musical theatre. And regardless of the genre, a good vocalist is a good vocalist. I'm especially fascinated with the human voice.

Tell us about your time at NOMU so far. Do you have a favorite memory or experience during your time here?

My goal at NOMU is to learn and practice what it takes to write and produce original music in the studio. I've enjoyed being in the presence of other artists. Just being in the studio learning from others, and listening to their feedback on my original material is so affirming.

What influences constantly inspire you as a musician/artist (specific artist, film, art piece, etc.) when you're writing or playing music?

Right now, I'm listening to a lot of JORDY and Wrabel. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I think a lot about how JORDY and Wrabel are making the type of music I wish I had growing up. Their styles are different from one another, but their song lyrics are written from a clearly queer perspective, which I've been trying to integrate into my own material. 

What are your plans or goals in your life now concerning school, music, or, just personally, any other pursuits?

I recognize that I have many years of experience performing or singing. Still, when it comes to being in the studio and working in front of a DAW to produce music, I'm definitely a beginner. It's incredibly frustrating not to be good at something, but I'm proud I've started. My current goal is to practice and give myself some grace. Put in the hours and make the music. Along the way, something incredible is bound to happen.

Are there any hobbies outside of music that you're interested in?

One thing that comes to mind is my work for a weekly podcast called "MeSearch." It features conversations with Filipino leaders, healers, and artists in the community. Interestingly enough, what I've learned about DAWs and audio at NOMU has helped me understand how to produce a podcast more effectively. The other thing that comes to mind is Netflix. I watch a lot of Netflix. Y'all need to watch "Beef" with Ali Wong and Steven Yeun—one of the best series I've ever seen.

Is there anything you’d like to add, want to tell whoever might be reading this interview, or want people to know about you?

Over the last couple of years, I've explored more ways that my voice can be used artistically other than for music. Check out my website at dustindomingo.com, where I share audio monologues and spoken word poems as a voiceover artist. You'll also find my (music) vocal reels and podcasts I've produced there.

I decided to do something interesting for the website where the last artist I interviewed can ask you a question. The last person I interviewed was Kezia, and the question was, "What is your motivation and drive every day?"

I've lost and almost lost people in my life. My parents are now retired and aging. Every day my nephews and nieces get bigger and more talkative. I often think about how fast time has passed and how short life is. Every time we lose a friend or family member, my parents tell me, “Do what makes you happy.” So that's what I'm trying to do.