Artist Spotlight: Meet VANNGO
What was the creative process like for this particular song?
Years ago, I was at a turning point in my life. I had just come through a major life transition, one of those moments where you’re surrounded by good things, but something deeper is still stirring. I was feeling a kind of soulful ache, a craving for meaningful connection. In that space, I stumbled on a line in an old poem I had written: “Hunger for Love.” I picked up my guitar and started playing around with a chord progression I liked. The lyrics just poured out. I recorded a voice memo on my iPhone and let it sit there for a while.
Recently, I’ve sensed a heavy yearning for connection in the world. I’ve always believed we’re all brothers and sisters—humans just trying to make sense of it all. And I knew I wasn’t alone in that. I thought maybe this song could help, even in a small way, to bring us a little closer together and maybe even have some fun along the way.
Were there any memorable or standout moments during the recording sessions for “Hunger for Love?”
Absolutely. There was a particular moment in the recording there was some empty space out and I could feel it calling for something more. That’s when I recorded what I now think of as a rallying cry. Not in a preachy way, but as a heartfelt reminder that we’re all in this together. All of us, regardless of background, just trying to find connection, meaning, and love in a chaotic world. It gave the song a new layer, turning it into something bigger than me.
How do you feel “Hunger for Love” represents your artistic identity?
“Hunger for Love” captures the core of who I am as an artist. It’s driven by emotion, grounded in experience, and rooted in the desire to connect, both with myself and with others. I’m not chasing perfection or trends; I’m chasing honesty. For me, music is about self-expression AND saying something that matters to me. This song is raw and unfiltered, and that’s exactly how I intend to show up creatively. It reflects who I am and my belief that vulnerability and sincerity are what truly resonate.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music?
I’ve always been creative, but I spent decades building companies, supporting others, and showing up for life in a very structured way. But deep down, something was missing. The catalyst was the fires that tore through Los Angeles and the Pacific Palisades. Like many, I was devastated, and I needed to process it.
So, I wrote “We’ll Rise LA!” It started as therapy… but it quickly became something more. People heard it and told me it helped them. I know music isn’t just about sound and it can be so healing. I was creating something for my soul. And I’m just getting started.
Do you aim to convey any specific themes or messages through your music?
I’m not interested in releasing music just to fill space. Every song I put out comes from something real. An experience, a question, a feeling that won’t leave me alone. I’m drawn to themes like longing, reflection, resilience, and connection, not because they’re trendy, but because they’re true to what I’ve lived.
As VANNGO, I’m committed to creating music that matters to me. Not every song is meant to be heavy, rather honest. If it reaches someone in a way that sparks clarity, emotion, or a deeper sense of self, that’s the kind of impact I want.
