Nnavy, the young promise of soul
She is the new face of Swiss soul. At 25, the young singer and songwriter from Lausanne, Nnavy has won the hearts of audiences with her emotionally charged, soul-feeling voice and her unique, personal style that blends R&B, soul and jazz influences. She makes her debut at JazzAscona, where she will give three concerts through June 27. Before performing at Moon & Stars in July. Brief chat with an artist to whom many predict a fulfilling future.
©JazzAscona – Photo credit Gioele Pozzi
Nnavy, what a particular name...
Navy is inspired by the color blue, navy blue in English. It is an imaginary representation of how I feel when I make music because generally in my songs I talk about my deep emotions, my stories, my loves, my joys and my sorrows. Even things that seem insurmountable I try to turn into something positive, something beautiful.
You are a musician who so far has been self-producing and singing your own songs….
Yes, that’s right. I write my own lyrics, compose the melodies for the vocals, and have friends help me with the arrangements. It is all self-produced, without the help of any record company, reporting to friends’ recording studios. It’s professional production, but if you will, it’s homegrown.
Are you considering joining a record label?
Yes, I think this step will follow, because it is not easy to do everything on your own; it takes means, people, financial and human resources. But let’s say I’m not in a hurry.
I read that you have a master’s degree in psychology from Lausanne Uni. Does that mean you are very interested in that subject or maybe you haven’t made up your mind yet about your future?
Oh no, I imagine my future in music, that’s for sure. But psychology is super interesting, it affects many aspects of our lives. I just graduated and I have to say that I really loved the studies.
©JazzAscona – Photo credit Gioele Pozzi
You are labeled as a soul and R&B singer and songwriter. How would you define your music?
The definition of soul and R&B singer fits me. I am part of a generation that has access (thanks to the Internet) to an incredible variety of music, so my music is a kind of melting pot, reflecting all these influences.
You are a Romanian artist but you have African origins. How much do those origins matter?
I was born and raised in Lausanne and I feel Romanian. That said, I think my origins are a central part of my identity. I grew up with the values that my parents passed on to me. In reality, however, I could not say to what extent my origins then translate into the music I make.
You recently participated in a music writing camp in Nairobi with about 20 other Afro-descendant artists selected by Spotify Africa. What was that experience like?
One of the most exciting experiences of my life. It was really a unique opportunity for growth and exchange. I met a lot of interesting people, made new friends. My fourth EP, titled “Closer,” released last April 26, was conceived there.
©JazzAscona – Photo credit Gioele Pozzi
In Ascona you will play three times …
Yes. In trio, quartet and quintet. I will present some of my own compositions and we will do some covers, songs that we love very much and therefore want to share with the audience.
Your musical career seems already well established with concerts in Montreux and Cully and on July 17 at Moon & Stars, as well as a nomination at the Swiss Music Awards and the release of 4 EPs. Your music on Spotify has garnered nearly 20 million listens. Quite a feat…
Things are actually starting to turn veins. As far as Spotify is concerned, I have been lucky enough to be selected in very popular playlists. And the presence on Instagram has also played a role.
What role do social media play today in terms of getting known and appreciated as an artist?
I would say they matter a lot because they are a medium that allows you to find an audience. People see you on Instagram and then maybe buy a ticket to come to your concert. Everything now goes through social media, from promoting projects to gig engagements. I have even found the musicians I play with on social.