What is a bando?

A bando is a term commonly used in the hip-hop and rap community to refer to an abandoned or run-down building that has been taken over by artists or squatters for creative purposes. These spaces are often used for music videos, performances, art installations, and other artistic endeavors.

Bandos can be found in urban areas and are typically in disrepair, with broken windows, graffiti, and other signs of neglect. Despite their rundown appearance, bandos can serve as a space for creativity and self-expression, offering a blank canvas for artists to make their mark.

While some bandos are used for illegal activities or squatting, many are utilized by artists looking for a unique and raw space to create and collaborate. In some cases, bandos are eventually renovated or repurposed for other uses, but their legacy as a haven for artistic expression remains.