NAKAYA is an alternative artist based in Los Angeles, blending electronic, R&B and folk textures to create a unique and ethereal sound. Her truthful and poignant lyrics speak to her experiences traversing multiple marginalized identities and she works to provide a voice for those who lack representation in the alternative music sphere.
She released her debut EP Out of Breath in 2015 and her latest release is titled ‘Fire Becomes Me’
What inspired this last release?
Hard to say. Within the past 3-4 years I had undergone huge life changes, largely internal work that I had been putting off until I was forced to face it. I think coming out on the other side of some self healing, I finally felt confident enough to share a proper body of work, which I hadn’t done in 7 years. I was feeling a bit like a snake who had shed its old skin and I wanted to share what that felt like.
What is something you can’t live without?
laughter
Any funny anecdotes from the time you were recording or writing this?
Not with other people, but so many alone. Even pre pandemic, most of my collaborative work had been remote so a lot of the record was created in my spare room during 2020. Lots of being stoned and talking to my cat like a crazy person.
What’s your favorite thing to do besides music?
Do I have to pick one? Catching up with old friends, walking, blasting music in my car all alone, pottery, dancing at a party
What’s a record or artist that shaped your creativity?
Oh man, do I have to pick one here too? This list could be endless but I’ll share a few – Nina Simone (specifically her live performance from Holland in 1965), Bon Iver, Sade, Imogen Heap, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Jose Gonzalez, Zero 7, Dr. Lonnie Smith
Who is an artist or band you look up to today?
I’m very into the work that Erika De Casier and Lous and the Yakuza are making. wow. so good. Sorry I’m terrible at picking one thing – my indecision plagues me.
What excites you the most about what you do?
It scares me all the time, and I like that.
