In an Exclusive Interview, Aza Nabuko Shares Her Evolution as an Artist, the Impact of "Indigo," Netflix Placements, and the Power of Vulnerability in Songwriting
Aza Nabuko © 2023
Today We Have The Pleasure To Have Aza on Goathead Records!
GH: Can you tell us about your musical journey and how you got started in the industry?
Aza Nabuko: For as long as I can remember, I've been musical. From toy pianos to memorizing Jack Johnson and Nickelback lyrics in the back seat of my parents' car. I was put in piano lessons as a child and excelled quickly, transposing before I knew that was a word. From then on, it was discovery after discovery, which led to grant writing, performances every weekend, and meeting incredible musicians in 'the big city'. I kept taking the next opportunity available, and each opened more opportunities. I am incredibly thankful for my family's support in my adolescent years.
GH: Your music is often described as a blend of chill-out indie and powerful pop or alternative vibes. How did you develop your unique style and sound?
Aza Nabuko: I have never found myself trying to fit into a genre specifically. For both my debut EP and "Indigo," I showed up to the studio with chords and lyrics, and with the help of my producer Kaj Falch-Nielson and many other talented session musicians, the tracks grew into what they were. They are all collaborations in their own way and have educated me and opened my eyes to different sounds. Every creative choice I've made was because it felt right, and I believe that's how sound has always remained authentic to me.
GH: Your debut EP was released in 2019, and now you have a full-length album titled 'Indigo.' How has your music evolved since your debut?
Aza Nabuko: My music evolved with me. The main difference between my debut EP and "Indigo" was really just my perspective of the world and of myself. I was sixteen when my debut EP was released, and I was just turning fourteen when the grant was received and I started writing the EP. I was young, vulnerable, and completely unprepared for what I was stepping into. The legal aspects, how to produce the music I wanted, how to plan. I was a wide-eyed kid, and I think you can hear it in the music. I just went for it and had the time of my life, but knew I couldn't act that way when producing "Indigo." Looking back at "Indigo" almost three years after writing it, I see now it is like a time capsule. It perfectly captures every emotion I was working through at seventeen. The whole world ahead and childhood in the rearview mirror. It was heavier and just meant more to me in general. I felt like I was on top of the world and was ready to keep pushing and create more. "Indigo" would not have come out the way it did without Kaj and my friends Vinay Lobo and Peter Robinson. Their knowledge of their instruments and raw talent really helped my songs come to life. New music is on its way this year, and I can't wait to see what twenty-year-old Aza will create.
GH: Your song was featured in Netflix's 'Tiny Pretty Things.' How did this opportunity come about, and how has it impacted your career?
Aza Nabuko: It was pretty cool to have my song placed in 'Tiny Pretty Things.' The opportunity was made, we found a Sync Agent, and they did an incredible job. The amount of recognition I received from just one episode was overwhelming but in the best way possible. It had a great impact on my career, and I can't wait to get more placements.
GH: As an artist who writes from personal experience, can you share some insight into your songwriting process and how you plan to continue connecting with listeners through your music in the future?
Aza Nabuko: Music that I write always has been and always will be for me. My lyrics are where I'm most vulnerable, and I think that keeps me connected with my listeners. My process is different every time. "Syzygy" was written because I liked the word syzygy. I recorded a voice memo today of a melody that came to mind driving home from the gym. Sometimes I use random chord generators or word generators for inspiration, but it flows fairly randomly. I hope my listeners continue to relate to my music, wherever they are in their lives, and I hope it can help them wherever it's needed.
Don't Forget To Follow Aza On Instagram and Listen to her music on all streaming platforms.
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