Nnabu - 10 Questions
Born in the Bronx by way of Nigeria, Nnabu always felt he had two identities. His family made a conscious, committed effort to keep him in tune with his Igbo culture which saw him visiting Nigeria every year from a young age. Shining through in his reflective and pensive work are the experiences he gained and which gave him a well rounded perspective on life, embracing humility, and instilling a sense of belonging and pride.
The singer, songwriter, and producer (real name Nnabugwu Enyia which means ‘Father Is Supreme’ in his native language) has always found solace in the melodic sounds of Fela and the progressiveness of Frank Ocean. Nnabu describes his musical approach as multi-dimensional and introspective.
1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?
It was the music I was into at the time that heavily influenced my recording process. My initial influences wereFrank Ocean, Sisqo, Dru Hill , Jodeci. At the same time, I started to listen to more Burna Boy, Prettyboy DO, Fireboy DML and Tems.
2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?
I’m really inspired by Tems Baby, Odunsi, Amaarae and Pretty Boy Do .Their sounds are all super modern and pushing several genres forward at once.
3. Tell me about you’re creative process when you make music, do you have a particular routine or do you just write when the feeling takes you?
The process was so freeing. I always freestyle so I can have an easygoing recording experience. I had just finished recording a full length project that was more R&B driven in LA before starting Modern Age. When I came back home to New York, my engineer encouraged me to get back to incorporating afrobeat. At first I was hesitant, but once I recorded Afro Sisqo, I started to have fun. The other records started flowing shortly after. I had already made Nnobody 4 years earlier and it fit perfectly with this project.
4. How would you describe your sound?
I would say my sound is still evolving but a word to encapsulate it would be “adventitious”. I never know exactly how I am going to approach a song or what direction I am going in beforehand. I just feel. I have a real love for soul music and R&B so that's my base, following that would be reggae/afro bounce for style. It's important for me to never deviate from my actual experiences in life so the story telling aspect of Hip Hop I essentially want to incorporate in my music.
5. What?s your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?
I think it's always a proud moment for me whenever I am able to just release music in general. I am super elated at the response I am getting from the project. It makes me so happy when I see people genuinely enjoying themselves to the music.
6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?
It's okay to find yourself through music. Make doing that a priority. It's also important to be grounded. Your gift is already yours, just be responsible with it. PRAY hard (note to self).
7. Are there any artists on your radar at the moment that we should check out?
Tems, Odunsi (The Engine), Santi (Cruel Santino), Popcaan and Victoria Monet
8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?
Amaarae : The Angels You Don't Know
SAINt JHN : While The World Was Burning
Giveon: When it's all said and done
9. What do you like to do when your not making music?
I really enjoy playing basketball with my homies. We get super competitive. I like to keep my mind stimulated, so I read books and watch movies whenever I get the chance.
10. Name Three things you can't live without when you’re in the studio?
A prayer
Ginger Ale
My phone where I record voice notes