Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicholas Fong
Hi Nicholas, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in the Port Arthur/Beaumont area of Southeast Texas right on the Louisiana border. From a young age I always loved The Beatles and the oldies station back when they still played 50’s and early 60’s rock n roll on the radio. I started learning guitar in middle school. As soon as I learned to play a few chords I was trying to write songs and was able to put together a band of like minded guys at the age of 15. We played together for awhile, but when I moved to San Marcos for college I needed to find people to play with in my proximity.
I finally stumbled upon this 2-piece electric blues band called The Motel Ball Band at a house show. They were playing like John Lee Hooker meets Howlin’ Wolf type stuff. After the show I immediately told the drummer, Felipe, who I did not know, they should let me sit in on harmonica next time they play. He was a little reluctant but friendly. Long story short– a few months later I was playing rhythm guitar in Motel Ball Band. Felipe liked playing the blues stuff, but he really wanted to also play drums in a rock ‘n roll band, so we formed Loteria. The great part about living in Austin is that we didn’t have too much trouble finding guys to play with us. We’ve had some changes in members, Felipe and I have always been the original continuous members.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Hah! Is it smooth for anybody? I hope not. At the end of the day I just want to play for as many people and share the bill with as many good bands as I can and hope they all like what we have to offer. Playing music is a grind. Its not all fun all the time, but the payoff is usually worth it.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a vinyl DJ, guitarist, bassist, songwriter and vocalist. I also play a little harmonica here and there. My band Loteria has been at it awhile in Austin. We have released 2 albums with a third on the way. I think what stands out about Loteria is that, because of the nature of our influences, we can play a honky tonk with with a bunch of country bands and also play the rock club with loud, high energy rock bands. We can do both. Often sometimes in the same set. I’m proud that I’ve been able to maintain good friendships with my bandmates, old and new.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I don’t consider myself very successful haha. It helps to have a goal, like working on the album. Alot of the opportunities I’ve had are a result of building organic friendships with other bands, bookers, venues, fans. Sometimes these friendships themselves are more rewarding that what it could potentially lead to.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/Loteriatx
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatortotz/
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6xCheJ05XRJXWFWgODcg22
