Q&A Scene: Nardia

Tell us about your new single, Is It You?

 Is This You? is a raw and intimate exploration of vulnerability, desire, and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy. It’s about that moment when you’re searching for connection, but you’re not sure if what you’re feeling is truly love—or just the idea of someone. I wanted to create a soundscape that feels haunting yet soulful, reflecting the emotional push and pull of questioning, longing and self-discovery.

What’s your favourite work at this point in time? (your own work) 

Right now, I’m pouring my heart into a new album called ‘Own Every Scar’, which I’m creating between Nashville and Memphis—and it’s hands down my favourite work so far. I’ve had the incredible honour of recording with various producers including Grammy Award-winning Boo Mitchell at the legendary Royal Studios. To be able to complete my album in some of the most influential music cities like Nashville and Memphis is an absolute dream come true. 

There’s a real respect for artistry that runs deep and it changes you. In Memphis especially, the spirit of legends like Al Green, Ann Peebles, Otis Redding and Tina Turner seep into the walls — artists who knew how to pour every ounce of truth, pain, and joy into a song. That raw, soul-deep emotion definitely found its way into Own Every Scar.

In Nashville, I found a different kind of influence — the craftsmanship of songwriting, where every lyric matters, where every line holds weight. Together, these two cities offered me more than a platform — they offered a legacy to honor and a challenge to be as honest and fearless in my own work as the greats before me.

My new album ‘Own Every Scar’ is raw, gritty and unapologetically bold. It’s about reclaiming power, telling untold stories and exploring the raw spaces between vulnerability and strength. Every session has been transformative—I truly can’t wait to share it.

How would you describe your sound in food form and why? 

 I’d say my sound is like a rich dark chocolate chili cake—smooth, sultry, and indulgent with a surprising kick. It’s soulful and decadent, with that unexpected heat that lingers long after the last note. I want my music to be an experience—one that hits both the heart and the gut.

Tell us a quick, on the road or studio, anecdote.

While recording Own Every Scar—the title track from my upcoming album—at Royal Studios in Memphis, I was in the middle of a vocal take when Boo Mitchell heard the full force of my voice for the first time. He literally ran to the vocal compressor chain to make sure the levels didn’t blow out, and apparently muttered, “God damn.” I went in for a second take, and that was it. The team wouldn’t let me do another. They said that take had everything the song needed—raw emotion, vulnerability, and power. That moment changed everything for me. I let go of perfection and leaned into the truth of the song. It reminded me that the studio magic isn’t in sounding flawless—it’s about being fearless.

What, or who, inspires you?

I’m inspired by artists who dare to be vulnerable— Etta James, Eva Cassidy, Emily King, Lianne La Havas and Billie Eilish. However, I’m also inspired by the people I meet every day—their stories, resilience, and emotions. Music, for me, is a way to channel those collective truths into something beautiful and healing.

Which song do you wish you wrote?

“River” by Joni Mitchell. It’s heartbreaking and beautiful in equal measure. The honesty in her lyrics and the way she conveys longing with such simplicity—that’s the kind of storytelling I aspire to.

What’s next for you?

 I’m getting ready to release my new album ‘Own Every Scar’ in July, and it feels like everything’s aligning in the best way. I’ve started lining up a U.S. tour to coincide with the release, and already I’ve had venues and festivals reaching out, which is incredibly exciting. This next chapter is all about taking the music on the road—sharing these songs live, connecting with new audiences and letting Own Every Scar live and breathe beyond the studio. There’s something really powerful about performing these tracks in the places that helped shape them—especially Memphis and Nashville. It’s going to be an unforgettable ride.

What’s your scene?

My scene is wherever there’s soul, storytelling and connection. Whether it’s an intimate jazz club, a festival stage, or a late-night jam in someone’s living room—I live for those moments of genuine musical exchange. That’s where the real magic happens.