The Free Nationals are an LA-based band, known for backing up California singer Anderson. Paak. Although Anderson has been known to collaborate with the band, he is not an official member.
The band consists of producer and guitarist Jose Rios, keyboardist Ron Tnava Avant, bassist Kelsey Gonzalez, and DJ, drummer, and producer Callum Connor. Each member also contributes backing vocals for the band. When performing with Anderson, Anderson has been known to play drums as well as sing. When asked about the origin of their name, they responded:
We got that from our mentor/brother Shafiq Husayn from the group Sa-Ra. Free Nationals means the first people of America, indigenous to the land before Columbus came. We took that for our own interpretation to pay respect to the musicians that were before us. We are indigenous to the music.
In February of 2018, it was reported that the band would release their debut album in 2018. The reported features include Daniel Caesar, Kali Uchis, Mac Miller, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Chronixx, Benny Sings and Syd. The features will seemingly make up for the band’s lack of a lead singer.