Exclusive Interview with Nia Na'an

Artist Spotlight: Nia Na'an

Nia Na’an is a Chicago-born artist whose music blends Pop, R&B, and Hip Hop with a playful, rhythmic sensibility. Spending time between Chicago and California, Nia brings a youthful perspective and an optimistic spirit to her music. Her songs reflect her love of fun, creativity, connection, and the simple joys of being present in the moment.

In this candid Q&A, Nia Na’an reflects on the experiences that have shaped her as an artist, the importance of creating authentic and meaningful art, and the perspective that continues to guide her creative journey.

BH Review: Every artist has a defining moment. Looking back, what experience shaped the artist you've become today?

Nia Na'an: My defining moment was when I realized that we are all continuously surrounded by magic, and all we need to do is to take time to experience it...for example, when I first discovered that I was able to easily identify and play the melodies to my fav songs on my piano!

BH Review: If someone heard your music for the first time today, what would you hope they understood about you before the final song ends?

Nia Na'an: I am all about being positive and optimistic...my songs were written to stimulate you to think, but most importantly to make you happy!

BH Review: Your music often reflects different chapters of your life. Which chapter are you living in right now?

Nia Na'an: I am forever young, and am therefore perpetually engaged in my awakening.

BH Review: What part of yourself do you think listeners discover through your music that they wouldn't find anywhere else?

Nia Na'an: I am not one to stick out in a crowd, nor am I usually the loudest person in the room. I am kind of an extroverted introvert. Through my music I can share my deepest feelings, thoughts, and humor without pressure. I have the luxury of time to contemplate, organize, and reveal those things that are nearest and dearest to me. Things that would not come out during social chatter.

BH Review: Do you chase inspiration, or has discipline become the greater creative force?

Nia Na'an: Nothing ever gets done if you don't show up for work. I have watched friends with extreme talent amount to nothing because they simply would not or could not work.

BH Review: What's a lyric you've written that still gives you chills today?

Nia Na'an: I've had a few, but I'm not yet ready to turn them loose...but soon!

BH Review: How has your relationship with songwriting evolved over the years?

Nia Na'an: I keep repeatedly learning that the learning and growth is never over... that it's all part of the journey that has no final destination other than more adventure, more growth, more learning. I'll never actually get there because it's infinity...but I'll always be working towards getting there!

BH Review: Success often comes with sacrifice. What has this journey taught you about balance?

Nia Na'an: If you work for success, you may never achieve it...If you work to achieve real art, you just might find success along the way. But the art is tantamount and essential, and really hard to accomplish. We must sacrifice our time, and our attention and our calories. Then just maybe, just maybe...

BH Review: Outside of music, what has been your greatest teacher?

Nia Na'an: All of the non-human species of whom I have been blessed to have
been loved.

BH Review: What does fulfillment look like for you today?

Nia Na'an: For now, fulfillment means looking back at the end of each day
and being able to tell myself I gave it my best shot...