Harmonizing Academia and Afrobeats: A Conversation with N’naya

N’naya (pronounced uun-na-ya), also known as Cletus Famous Nwankwo, is not just another rising star in the Afrobeats scene; he’s a unique blend of intellect and artistry. With an impressive academic track record, including two Commonwealth Scholarships and near completion of his PhD at the University of Leicester, N’naya is charting a distinct path in music that marries his scholarly pursuits with his creative passions. His genre-defying sound, which he calls "assemblage music," combines Afrobeats, Highlife, Pop, and more to create a captivating and soulful auditory experience.

After he released debut single "Byegone",and his forthcoming album "Rhythm and Reason," N’naya is poised to make a significant impact on the music world. His innovative approach to blending diverse musical elements reflects a fresh and personal perspective. Join us as we delve into N’naya’s creative process, his inspirations, and how he balances his dual careers with grace and originality.

1. N'naya, your unique genre "assemblage music" combines Afrobeats, Highlife, Pop, and other elements. Can you describe the inspiration behind this fusion and how your background in academia influences your musical style?

Absolutely! Thanks for your interest in my music. Assemblage music is all about bringing together the different influences that have shaped me as a person and a musician. Here's how it breaks down:

• Afrobeats: The driving force behind my music is definitely Afrobeats. It's the infectious rhythms and pulsating energy that really gets me going. It makes you want to move, and that's a feeling I love to share with listeners.

• Highlife: This is the genre that connects me to my Nigerian heritage. Highlife melodies have a beautiful soulfulness and storytelling quality that I love to incorporate into my music. It adds a layer of depth and emotion.

• Pop: Pop music has a knack for catchy hooks and universal themes. I try to take that element and infuse it with my Afrobeats and Highlife base to create music that's both relatable and enjoyable on a first listen.

• Other Elements: This is where my background and experiences come into play. I might sprinkle in a bit of Igbo language here, a touch of Jazz improvisation there, depending on the song and the feeling I want to evoke. It's all about creating a unique soundscape that reflects the richness of my influences.

Now, how about the academic influence? That might seem surprising at first, but hear me out. My studies have instilled in me a deep appreciation for different cultures, perspectives, and ways of thinking. It's about bringing things together, analyzing them, and understanding how they work in harmony. This approach translates perfectly into my music, where I'm constantly experimenting and blending genres to find something new and exciting.

In a nutshell, assemblage music is a reflection of who I am – a Nigerian academic with a global perspective and a passion for creating music that breaks down barriers and brings people together.

2. You have an impressive academic background, including winning two Commonwealth Scholarships and nearing completion of your PhD. How do you balance your academic pursuits with your music career, and in what ways do these two worlds intersect for you?

Balancing academics and music can definitely be a juggling act, but it's a challenge I thrive on! Here's how I manage it:

• Time Management is Key: I rely heavily on strict scheduling and prioritizing. Early mornings are dedicated to focused academic work, while afternoons and evenings often find me in the studio or rehearsing. Weekends are a mix of catching up on any overflow and letting loose creatively.

  
  

• Discipline is Essential: Both music and academia demand discipline. Sticking to a schedule, meeting deadlines, and constantly pushing myself to improve are skills I apply in both worlds. The focus and determination I use for research papers translate well to writing impactful lyrics and crafting intricate melodies.

• They Fuel Each Other: Surprisingly, these seemingly disparate worlds actually inspire each other. My academic pursuits expose me to diverse ideas and perspectives that spark creative inspiration for my music. Conversely, music allows me to express and explore these ideas in a different way, fostering a deeper understanding of them. And it is a way I have fun; with music, I am never bored. 

• Shared Skills: The analytical thinking I use in research translates well to dissecting music theory and analyzing the work of other artists. Additionally, my ability to communicate complex ideas clearly is crucial for writing compelling lyrics and expressing myself effectively in interviews.

• Flexibility is Crucial: Things don't always go according to plan. There are times when a creative breakthrough demands a late-night studio session, or an unexpected deadline might require me to shift gears. Staying flexible and adaptable helps me navigate these situations without compromising either pursuit.

Ultimately, both music and academia are fundamental parts of who I am. They allow me to explore different aspects of myself and the world around me. While it's a constant balancing act, the synergy between these seemingly separate worlds is what fuels my creativity and motivates me to excel in both.

3. Your upcoming debut album, Rhythm and Reason, explores a variety of themes, from love and heartbreak to social issues and humor. Can you share your creative process for writing this album and how you decided on the diverse themes it covers?

The creative process for Rhythm and Reason was a fascinating journey of self-discovery and exploration. Here's a breakdown of how it unfolded:

Inspiration Everywhere: Life experiences are my biggest source of inspiration. The album reflects on the joys of love ("Angelema," "Lolo Universe"), the sting of heartbreak ("Blind in Love," "Always Magic"), and the challenges of navigating young adulthood ("Not Bill Gates"). Even a weekend trip to see my girlfriend in Leicester sparked the high-energy party anthem, "Spirit Rising."

Storytelling Through Music: I view my songs as mini-stories. Some, like "Always Magic," explore the complexities of a fading relationship, while "Not Bill Gates" injects humor into the struggles of balancing love with a materialistic partner. I want listeners to connect with these stories, whether it's through relatable experiences or simply enjoying the emotional journey.

The Power of Vulnerability: I believe vulnerability is a strength, and I wasn't afraid to lay bare my emotions on Rhythm and Reason. "Hold On So Tight" reflects on the fear of losing someone you love, while "Blind in Love" explores the aftermath of heartbreak. By sharing my vulnerabilities, I hope to connect with listeners on a deeper level and create a sense of shared experience.

Social Commentary with a Beat: Music has the power to spark conversations, and I wanted to use Rhythm and Reason to touch on some social issues. "Popular" explores the fleeting nature of fame and the challenges of sudden notoriety. It's a reminder that true value lies beyond fleeting popularity.

Thematic Cohesion: Despite the diverse themes, the album is held together by the central question of "Rhythm and Reason." How do we find the balance between following our passions (the rhythm) and making sound decisions (the reason) as we navigate life's complexities? Rhythm also denotes my music journey and Reason, my academic background.

Letting the Music Flow: While I had some initial ideas, I also allowed the music itself to guide the creative process. Sometimes a melody or a specific beat would spark a theme, leading me to explore it further in the lyrics. This organic approach allowed for a natural flow of ideas and emotions throughout the album.

Rhythm and Reason is a culmination of my experiences, observations, and emotions. I hope it takes listeners on a journey that's both relatable and thought-provoking, with a healthy dose of catchy melodies and danceable rhythms along the way.

4. Your recent singles, like "Lolo Universe" and "Angelema," have been gaining traction and featured on platforms such as BBC Music Introducing. How has the reception been for your music so far, and what has been the most rewarding part of your journey into the music industry?

The reception for my music has been incredibly positive, and it's been truly rewarding to see my hard work and passion resonate with listeners. Here's a breakdown of what's been most encouraging:

• Early Recognition: Getting featured on BBC Music Introducing with Dean Jackson was a huge moment. It opened doors to a wider audience and showed me that my music has the potential to connect with people beyond my immediate circle. Airplay on stations like Blue Radio and RADIOFLAMES is another exciting step, showing there's a growing interest in what I'm doing.

• Positive Feedback: What truly warms my heart are the messages I receive from fans who connect with my music. They tell me how "Lolo Universe" makes them smile or how "Angelema" reminds them of their own love story. Knowing that my music can evoke emotions and create positive experiences for listeners is the most rewarding part of this journey.

• Industry Support: The support from BBC Radio and other platforms has been instrumental. It shows that industry professionals believe in my music and are willing to give me a chance. This encouragement motivates me to keep pushing boundaries and creating music that resonates.

• Fan Engagement: Building a connection with fans is an amazing aspect of this journey. Social media interaction allows me to see people enjoying my music at live shows or singing along to my tracks. It creates a sense of community and shared passion that motivates me to keep creating.

Overall, the positive reception has been incredibly validating. It fuels my determination to keep growing as a musician and share my unique sound with the world. There are definitely challenges along the way, but seeing the positive impact my music has makes it all worthwhile.

5. With several upcoming releases, including the singles "Spirit Rising" and "Always Magic," what can fans expect from these new tracks? Are there any particular messages or emotions you hope to convey through them?

Sure! Here's a sneak peek at what fans can expect from my upcoming releases:

• Spirit is Rising (August 26th): Get ready for a high-energy weekend anthem! This Amapiano/Afro-House track captures the excitement of Friday night and the anticipation of letting loose. It's filled with relatable lyrics about traveling to see a lover, the thrill of a night at the club, and the joy of celebrating good times. Expect a catchy chorus, infectious energy, and a touch of suggestive humor – perfect for getting your party started.

• Always Magic (August 30th): This Pop-infused ballad explores the challenges of a fading relationship. It's a story of looking back on happier times and wondering if the magic can be recaptured. Expect soulful melodies, introspective lyrics that explore themes of longing and regret, and a hopeful undercurrent as the narrator searches for a way to make things work.

Emotional Journeys: Both tracks take listeners on emotional journeys. "Spirit is Rising" is an energetic celebration, while "Always Magic" delves into vulnerability and the complexities of love.

Genre Exploration: These releases showcase my versatility as a musician. While "Spirit is Rising" leans towards the dance floor, "Always Magic" explores a more introspective and melodic side.

Honest Storytelling: Both songs share honest stories about relatable experiences. From the excitement of weekend celebrations to the challenges of love, I hope listeners connect with the emotions and see themselves reflected in the lyrics.

Enduring Messages: Despite their contrasting tones, both songs share a message of hope. "Spirit is Rising" encourages listeners to embrace the good times, while "Always Magic" leaves the door open for reconciliation and the possibility of rekindling love. I'm excited to share these new tracks with the world and can't wait to see how fans react!