Manneto is a rising artist, filmmaker, and creative visionary based in Belgium with roots that stretch across borders. Drawing inspiration from his multicultural upbringing and dynamic work as a director and editor, Manneto weaves raw emotion, soulful rhythm, and cinematic energy into his music. His sound reflects a balance of vulnerability and cool confidence, delivering smooth, R&B-infused tracks that speak to love, identity, and self-awareness. With his artistry spanning both sound and visual storytelling, Manneto is carving out a unique space in the global music scene.

With his single, “SLIDE,” out now, we took some time to hear from Manneto. Read below to learn more about Manneto, the story behind his single, and what’s to come.

Hi Manneto! Let’s start with how did you get your artist name?

Manneto is actually my middle name, given to me by my grandfather. It’s a Mozambican name that means ‘Steel that cannot be broken.’ It always stuck with me, and when it came to choosing a name that represents strength and identity, it felt right to go with something so personal.

What city are you from and where are you based now?

I’m from Belgium, and that’s where I’m based at the moment, but I’m constantly moving between Belgium and Holland for creative collaborations. Both places feed my artistry in different ways.

At what point in your life did you decide to pursue a career in music? How did you get started?

I’d say it started to become serious in my early twenties. I was already deep in the film world—directing, editing, and working on sets, but music kept calling me.

Has your upbringing played a role in shaping who you are and defining your sound today? If so, how?

Absolutely. My background is rich with different cultures, and that definitely shaped how I hear music and how I express myself. There’s this blend of European cool and African soul that’s always been in my life. My sound reflects that—smooth, deep, layered.

How would you describe your sound to readers who may not be familiar with you?

It’s moody, cinematic, and soulful. Imagine R&B meeting introspective trap, with a little Afro flavor and emotional storytelling underneath. It’s music for late-night drives, deep thoughts, and real feelings.

Do you have any hobbies outside of music? What do you do to stay creative?

Filmmaking is a big one for me. I direct and edit visuals, which goes hand in hand with how I see music. I also go to the gym regularly and practice intermittent fasting—it helps me stay grounded and focused. Traveling and soaking up new energy also keeps me inspired.

Who are some of your main musical influences?

Michael Jackson for his performance energy and timeless melodies, Usher for his smooth vocals and emotional delivery, Labrinth for his cinematic soundscapes and emotion packed production, and Omah Lay for his raw vulnerability and Afro-influenced rhythm. I’m also really inspired by cinematic composers and film directors—how they tell stories through mood and feeling. That visual storytelling always finds its way into my music too.

Who would be a dream to collaborate with?

I’d love to work with Labrinth or Our very own Stromae.

What are some of your future music career goals?

I want to release a full-length album that ties visuals and music together into a full experience. I’d also love to tour and perform internationally, and eventually get into directing movies.

What’s one of the proudest moments of your music career so far?

Hearing ‘SLIDE’ play on MNM radio was huge. It’s one of Belgium’s biggest stations, and knowing my voice made it there—without a major label backing—was surreal. It reminded me that the vision is working.

What would you say are the greatest lessons that you’ve learned so far?

Stay consistent, even when you don’t feel motivated. Protect your energy. And, trust your vision—no one else has to see it for it to be real.

Now onto your release, ‘SLIDE.’ What inspired this song?

‘SLIDE’ was created super spontaneously. There wasn’t a specific inspiration behind it—I was just in the car with a friend, cruising around the block, and suddenly had this moment where I was like, ‘Yo, I need to record something right now.’ I rushed to the studio and laid it down. Sometimes, the best songs come from that kind of energy—no overthinking, just pure instinct.

What is ‘SLIDE’ about?

I actually wrote ‘SLIDE’ during the pandemic. I had matched with someone on Hinge, but because of all the lockdowns, we couldn’t meet up. So, the song became this ‘what if’ moment. What if we actually linked? What if this vibe turned into something real?

What is your favorite lyric in ‘SLIDE’ and why?

‘Round and round like a rodeo, we-ee / Out of bounds like a Scorpio, we-ee’ — that one hits different. It really captured how I felt about her, and funny enough, she’s actually a Scorpio.

What message do you hope fans take away from your music and from ‘SLIDE?’

That it’s okay to be complex. To want love and solitude, to protect your peace, but still crave connection. I want people to feel seen in the music—and to vibe while they do it. Like just vibe. You don’t need to be perfect. Just be.

What’s next for you? Are you working on any upcoming projects, or do you have any upcoming shows that we should be on the lookout for?

Yes! I’ve got a new single dropping in June as part of the second wave of my EP. I’m also working on a set of visuals, some dope collabs . Dates are coming soon, and I’ll announce them all on my socials.

Where can we follow you on social media?

Let’s connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manneto__
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@manneto_
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7pmVs9i3xZpQ1txRPIV11h

Before you go, let’s ask you something random. What is your favorite food?

Nshima with greens or Margherita pizza, hands down. It reminds me of home and balance.

Thank you for the great interview; wish you much continued success!