Neo-Soul Rapper Nnena Signs to Bad Robot’s Record Label, New Song Out Now
Photo Courtesy of Nnena
Coming in as the very first signing to Bad Robot’s record label Loud Robot, rapper Nnena has released her new brilliant track “Lovesick.” While this serves as the debut single for the new independent label, it is only the most recent in a series of impressive projects developed by the first-generation Nigerian American artist.
Characterized by her idiosyncratic neo-soul style, Nnena has cultivated a uniquely interdisciplinary sound with elements of hip-hop, jazz, R&B, and slam poetry. This is represented exceptionally well in “Lovesick,” featuring unbroken streams of bold lyrics overlaid upon smooth lulls of guitar, bright snaps of piano, and slow, steady licks of percussion.
This unique combination is reminiscent of other up-and-coming artists such as Chicago’s Noname, with inspiration from exemplary female powerhouses— Nnena’s very own heroines— Lauryn Hill, Aretha Franklin, Missy Elliot, and Queen Latifah. Similarly to her icons, Nnena draws inspiration for her music from the female experience, explaining, “My music is what other females wish they could say out loud, but I do it for them in a song.”
In truth, the Cleveland based artist, and recent Wilberforce University graduate, feels a great deal of her music is prompted by her desire to empower a broad spectrum of listeners, recounting, “I want my music to elicit the truth and make the listener feel comfortable. I want people not to feel alone and I never want my music to leave anyone out.”
This same sentiment is powerfully conveyed in the gripping music video for “Lovesick.” Directed by writer, director, and Sundance hit maker JD Dillard, it hardly comes as a surprise to see such a compelling and dynamic variety of scenes actualizing the song’s narrative. The music video presents Nnena in a number of different segments, her clothing and attitudes shifting in a sequence which illustrates more clearly the wide range of individuals and moments the record is intended to represent. Whether fiercely telling off someone who wronged her, giddily dancing on a bike, or patiently grimacing while family braids her hair, Nnena confidently demonstrates the validity of the juncture and embraces the different parts of her whole identity.
In addition, the multi-talented artist made many of the video’s character costumes. Most notably, she designed and created various traditional Nigerian pieces, a talent resultant from the family who raised her. Nnena describes the pride and appreciation she holds for her heritage, a conviction which has pushed her further in her music-making. She explains, “My parents are my inspirations. In Nigeria, your kids are where you get your blessings from— I want to make them proud.”
The impetus to do so can be seen clearly in Nnena’s swift rise from viral social media freestyles and small film-making endeavors to full length tracks and debut record singles. Her hard-hitting hooks and soulful melodies have caught the attention of Kaboom Magazine, The Rap Fest, and The Nocturnal, and on stage she’s even opened for rising stars like WS Boogie, Mayorkun, and Trinidad James.
Check out Nnena’s newest video to experience what captivates so many.
