AS well as being part of one of the most influential bands of the last twenty years, Chad Hugo has produced some of the best new talent.

The luminary usually leaves the spotlight to other N.E.R.D. band member and longtime friend Pharrell Williams.

But when the 44-year-old does speak, it is to reaffirm his commitment to creating the best music possible.

After a seven year hiatus, Chad reunited with his alt-rap trio at the end of 2017 to release No_One Ever Really Dies - their most political and ambitious album to date.

The album features two verses from Kendrick Lamar, who the band will be supporting on his upcoming Glasgow show and, lucky for fans, the tracks could come to life on stage.

“Shae, I and the team listened to songs that Pharrell had compiled during his time off judging The Voice at the botanical yet vibey Conway recording studio”, Chad says of their long awaited comeback.

“We added finishing touches to it, dancers were brought on stage and the rest is history.

“If it weren’t for the fans and the support of friends and ‘family popping N.E.R.D. in the deck’ we probably wouldn’t be making music as a group again.”

Since dropping In Search Of...in 2001, N.E.R.D. have been transcending genres whether that be punk, rap or R&B.

For younger generations, the band of misfits provided inspiration through their individuality and defiance of cultural stereotypes.

As well as working with the likes of Jay-Z; The Backstreet Boys, Britney Spears and Avril Lavigne have also been privy to their infamous production skills.

Nowadays, N.E.R.D.’s influence can still be found on work by Odd Future members Tyler, the Creator, Frank Ocean, The Internet and Earl Sweatshirt, who have been produced by their self-proclaimed heroes.

Chad explains: “I didn’t realize that we were going to be that influential to other artists in the future, but we are surely grateful if they admit that we are. I’m a fan of both Tyler and Frank Ocean, so shout out to Odd Future and Om’mas Keith.

“They give us the guidance. We’re always learning.”

The group managed to recruit Kendrick Lamar for politically charged track Don’t Do It, which tackles the issue of police shootings, and Kites on their new record.

“His verses are killer. It will be cool to witness the collaboration on stage - it would be dope for sure”, Chad adds.

N.E.R.D. will play Bellahouston Park on August 29.