NahJai Speaks About Soul Therapy
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
How long have you been singing professionally?I have been singing professional for over 5 years. Initially it was within Mass Community Choirs and groups whereby we actually performed around the country. As far as my own projects, I would say now for about 5 years.
Are your lyrics inspired by any of your past relationships?
Of course, they most often always are. I find I write my best when I draw from what I have gone through and know others have went through as well...the good, the bad and the ugly...lol
If you weren't singing, what would you be doing?
Wow...If I wasn't able to sing and pursue my music I would probably be somewhere doing something else creative. I love fashion and just creating period so probably doing something with fashion...Now make no mistake about it...it is hard being an independent artist because you spend money before you make it...and I mean lots of it so that means you have to have something on the side to make ends meet.
Did you collaborate with anyone on your new CD?
Its funny you ask me that : - ) Yes I started out working with a new upcoming producer by the name of JayJay Johnson with Nusong Productions and as time grew on we collaborated on some of the songs on the new album whereby he co-wrote and produced. He is an awesome producer/musician and is making his mark on the industry.
What do you want the listener to walk away with after listening to your album?
The new album is entitled "Soul Therapy" and as I was driving my car this morning, I was thinking what does that mean and what do I want it to mean. You know how in life we go through different emotions and changes. I want people to be able to put on this CD when they need emotional encouragement...we have that...when they need some love music we have that...when they are just tired from a long hard day at work and want to Just Relax...we have that as well. The album is entitled Soul Therapy so that on any given day when you need some therapy you can play Nahjai Soul CD entitled "Soul Therapy" and get what you need...sort of like food for the soul!!!
How do you feel when you're performing on stage?
Wow Shelia, Good question. You are digging in deep now...lol.
I love to share my gift with others and feel like someone has been touched in some way by what the Father has allowed me to share. I am always nervous at first during the first few seconds when I walk to the mic but once the music starts and I start singing its just me and the music. I used to think butterflies were bad until I heard Patti Labelle say one day "When you have lost the Butterflies you have lost the passion for the music" and I totally agree with that.
What advice would you give other young ladies who want to follow in your path?
Shelia, it is hard in today's society being a woman and standing up for what you believe in. In the industry today a lot of Sex is being sold and it doesn't matter what is being said. Lyrics are superficial and we have very few role models for the children. First and foremost you need to understand who you are and your purpose. Love yourself from the inside out and know that you can do whatever you set your mind to without compromising your self worth. Stay focused and true to God and yourself.
There will be many battles you may have to fight but just know that at the end of the day it is only what you do for Christ that will last. Stand firm and educate yourself as much as possible in whatever you are trying to pursue so you know that you know...that you know.
Most importantly for every NO there is a YES around the corner so by all means do not give up..
Describe your personality in three words.
Humble, Passionate, Giving
Is there anything else you would like to say to your fans?
I would like to say first and foremost thanks to you Shelia for reaching out to independent artists and spreading the word to let people know we are out here.
To the fans please go to www.myspace.com/nahjai and check out my show dates coming up. If you are in the area i would love for you to come experience some Soul Therapy with Myself and JayJay with Nusong Entertainment who is amazing on the piano and will be playing with me live.
Also feel free to drop a friend request or send us an email at nusongentertainment@yahoo.com. It is important if you want music like ours to be heard to support our efforts as best you can. Everything you will be hearing and seeing we have done on our own and with the help of the Lord.
We appreciate your continued support and hope to see you soon. Album release date Spring of 2008, singles available from new album titles "Just Relax" and "Easy to Love" now at www.myspace.com/nahjai.
Interview by Shelia M Goss, an entertainment writer and author of My Invisible Husband, Roses are thorns, Violets are true and Paige's Web. For more information, visit www.sheliagoss.com.
