An Interview with Nnennaya Kelly
Diversity in talent and the drive to excel in multiple facets of life is not common, but afrobeats singer Nnennaya Kelly is an exception to the rule. A trailblazing corporate guru, passionate philanthropist, and budding music sensation, Nnennaya’s journey is nothing short of inspirational. Join us as we delve deep into her world, tracing her steps from the corporate corridors to the rhythm-infused streets of Detroit, Lagos, and beyond.
Who or what inspired you to start making music? And, when did you start?
I started at 7 years old singing at St. Paul Cathedral in the girl’s choir. I studied music opera mezzo soprano vocals at university for 2 years.
What is your biggest challenge as an artist?
To juggle life as a corporate person keeping my job but waiting for my music to really get to a place I can do it full time.
What is your favorite project or single you have released?
My upcoming album contains 10 original songs that we are releasing the songs gradually. I’m also enjoying my most recent single, Kiss of Life.
Who are your inspirations? What artists or bands are you listening to?
Sade Adu, Tems, Teni, Burna Boy, Rema, King Promise, and Lionel Ritchie.
What’s the process behind working on a song like?
I often wake up in the middle of the night with a tune in my head. I get up and immediately record it so I do not forget it. I develop it more and then send it to a producer to make an instrumental for me on it. Sometimes I already have the lyrics and just refine it once I have the beat. Following this I go to a studio to record my vocals on the beat and mix and master and it’s done! I started to work on the music video and the rest is history.
Tell me about your upcoming music and what inspired you to create it!
My upcoming single is called Better Place. It is an afrobeat amapiano music releasing in November this year! We are shooting the video on the 11th of November. Very excited about this one!
What are your plans for 2023?
I will be releasing Better Place, my third single release this year. I am planning live gigs in London, Africa, the USA, and all around the world!
Have any shoutouts?
Shout out to my family especially our 16-year-old son Sammy Smack who just released his first single Coast to Coast. Shout out to my husband and our 5-year-old daughter who really are patient my work in the music front. Shout to my fantastic wonderful manager Emmanuel Alade and his entire team at Creatrix Empire Limited for putting up with me at every whim. To my parents, especially my dad who has been waiting for me to get back into the music industry to make history. Finally to my God who just protects and keeps me in everything I do!
Nnennaya Kelly’s multifaceted life paints the portrait of a woman unafraid to pursue her passions, whether that’s excelling in the corporate sphere, advocating for children’s well-being, or serenading us with her unique sound. Nnennaya’s story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the belief that it’s never too late to chase one’s dreams. As we watch this space for her upcoming releases and endeavors, we are reminded of the boundless possibilities when talent and dedication go hand in hand. Tune in to her music on Spotify or wherever you stream music.