Free Nationals

Free Nationals are a Los Angeles-based band best known for their close association with singer Anderson .Paak, backing him extensively in the studio and on tour without being formal members of his solo project. The core lineup includes guitarist José Rios, keyboardist Ron Avant, bassist Kelsey Gonzalez, and drummer/producer Callum Connor, each contributing to the band's tight, groove-driven sound and often adding backing vocals.

Musically, Free Nationals draw on funk, soul, and hip-hop influences, building instrumentals that emphasize live-band chemistry within a genre space usually dominated by sampled or programmed production. Their name pays tribute to indigenous peoples of the Americas, a reference the band has said was inspired by their mentor Shafiq Husayn of Sa-Ra Creative Partners.

The band released their self-titled debut album in 2019, built around collaborations rather than a single lead vocalist, featuring guests such as Daniel Caesar, Kali Uchis, Mac Miller, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Chronixx, and Syd. The lead single «Beauty & Essex», featuring Daniel Caesar, introduced the album and highlighted the band's approach of rotating collaborators across tracks while maintaining a consistent instrumental identity rooted in West Coast funk and neo-soul.