Billy Dean Thomas

Nikkie speaks with the talented Black queer gender-nonconforming R&B artist, NYALLAH about their artistic journey, beginning with an exploration of their childhood influences and how their upbringing in a creatively rich household surrounded by a variety of genres – including jazz, reggae, and R&B – infused their music with diverse sounds and emotions. They reminisce about listening to powerful vocalists like Mary J. Blige and Brandy, whose influences are evident in NYALLAH's own powerful and soulful style. Discussing their debut album, 'Reflections,' NYALLAH opens up about the personal and social themes interwoven throughout the work. The album serves as a healing journey, reflecting their experiences with love, loss, and the struggles they face as a Black, queer individual navigating the complexities of identity and societal expectations. NYALLAH also reveals the inspiration behind their standout track "Growing Pains," describing it as a heartfelt letter from their future self, encouraging resilience and growth amidst life's challenges and provides insight into the creative process for 'Reflections,' which took nearly two years to complete. They describe how their experiences at USC shaped their artistry and the challenges they faced in an institution that often privileged white narratives. From struggles with internalized oppression to false perceptions of professionalism, NYALLAH emphasizes how these experiences fueled their desire to create music that authentically represents their truth. The conversation delves into the multifaceted nature of NYALLAH's artistry, their evolution as a songwriter, and their approach to composition. They share how their musical style blends elements of hip-hop and soul, producing a sound that is both dynamic and deeply resonant. NYALLAH emphasizes the importance of cultivating community within their music, stating that collaboration with fellow artists is essential to their creative process. As the conversation turns to visibility in the music industry, NYALLAH candidly addresses the complexities of being a queer, gender-nonconforming artist, recounting experiences of tokenization and erasure while reiterating their commitment to using their platform to uplift Black voices and engage in necessary conversations surrounding identity, mental health, and social justice. NYALLAH's perspective on liberation through art serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of creativity.

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Guest: NYALLAH

Host & Producer: Nikkiesha McLeod

Producer & Editor: Jeremiah Lee McVay

Released by Stereoactive Media