There’s a certain kind of artist who doesn’t just make music — they live it. St. Louis R&B artist TNFLANDO, born Orlando Rideout, is exactly that kind of force. A singer, songwriter, musician, producer, engineer, and actor all wrapped into one, TNFLANDO is quietly building one of the most versatile catalogs to come out of Missouri in recent memory. And if you haven’t heard his name yet, you will soon.
Working independently alongside St. Louis-based label Tha Nod Factor — run by CEO Angela Richardson, who has co-writing credits on Huey’s iconic hit Pop Lock and Drop It — TNFLANDO brings serious industry pedigree to every project he touches. Whether he’s behind the board engineering a session, writing a hook, or stepping in front of a live band, the man is a one-stop shop for authentic, soulful sound.
St. Louis R&B Artist TNFLANDO on the Roots That Shaped His Sound
Ask TNFLANDO where his music comes from, and he doesn’t hesitate. “My mother and grandmother are the main influences that have molded my career,” he says. “Without them, I don’t know where I would be.” That deep sense of family is woven into everything he creates — from the emotional vulnerability in his vocals to the warm, Southern-tinged soul that colors his production.
His sound is hard to box in, and that’s entirely by design. Think classic R&B at its core, layered with a Southern soul flavor that feels both rooted and refreshingly modern. “Versatile but unique,” is how he describes it. “R&B for sure, but with a Southern soul style and sound — and I can create any type of genre.” It’s the kind of range that keeps listeners guessing and coming back for more.
That versatility isn’t just talk. TNFLANDO can pull together a full live band, deliver a raw studio session, and produce a radio-ready record — all in the same week. He’s performed in and out of town as a working musician, a hustle that has sustained his career while he continues to grow as an artist in his own right.
Tribute, Loss, and the Making of Something Real
Behind the music is a life fully lived. One of the most meaningful stories TNFLANDO shares involves his late cousin Anthony Irvin, known as Kilo. “Me in the studio with my late cousin — he would tell me to delete every song he recorded because he wanted to do something better,” TNFLANDO recalls with a laugh that carries real weight. “I’m like, bro, this is fire. And he’s like, cuz, we can make something better. Rest in peace, Cuzzo. You are truly missed.”
That spirit of striving for more — of never settling — runs through TNFLANDO’s work. His recent project My Boo showcases that soulful range, while his tribute track Mama is a deeply personal ode to the woman who raised him and made him who he is. Now, he’s also partnered with Gangs Records for a single deal on his new record Hustle, which is currently featured as a soundtrack for an upcoming film. The momentum is real and building fast.
What’s Next for TNFLANDO
The ambitions of St. Louis R&B artist TNFLANDO stretch well beyond the recording studio. He has his eyes set on Los Angeles and a full acting career, with dreams of placing his music catalog in TV shows, films, and commercials. Grammy recognition isn’t off the table either — and given the breadth of his talent, it wouldn’t be a stretch.
He’s also expanding into artist management, using his years of experience in production, songwriting, and engineering to help guide the next generation of talent. “I want to be able to help guide artists in the right direction and still be able to do my music,” he says. It’s the kind of thinking that separates a true industry player from someone just chasing a moment.
Through all the hustle, limited budgets, and the noise of a competitive industry, TNFLANDO has kept his compass pointed forward. “Look past the haters and all the jealousy, trust God’s assignment, and continue to move forward,” he says simply. It’s a philosophy that shows up in every bar, every beat, and every performance.
Stream his music on Spotify and follow his journey on Instagram — and keep your eyes on this St. Louis talent, because TNFLANDO is just getting started.