Los Angeles has always been a melting pot of musical talent, but there's a fresh voice making waves in the R&B/Soul scene, and it goes by the name NURD. Hailing from the vibrant Leimert Park District in South Central LA, NURD is more than just a singer-songwriter; they're a storyteller on a mission to leave an indelible mark on the music industry.
Authenticity in Every Note
NURD's journey in music began practically at birth, singing from the tender age of three and penning lyrics by the time they were ten. The Leimert Park native entered the professional music scene in 2016, driven by a passion for authenticity. "I aim to make a difference in music by being myself," NURD declares. "I think authenticity is key and also being vulnerable and showing growth. I want my fans to grow with me. We’re family."
A Vision Beyond the Horizon
NURD doesn't just dream big; they dream colossal. The singer envisions a future adorned with accolades—Grammys, BET Awards, and Soul Train honors. But it doesn't stop there. NURD plans to expand into songwriting, acting, modeling, and even fashion. It's a multifaceted approach to creativity that mirrors the diverse influences woven into their music.
Crafting Soundscapes and Overcoming Doubt
When it comes to the creative process, NURD's approach is as fluid as their genre. "Depends, sometimes I come off the dome, and sometimes I listen to beats and just feel it," they reveal. However, like any artist, doubt can be a formidable obstacle. NURD shares, "I’ve faced doubting myself. My third project was supposed to be released this year, and I just kept going back and forth. Scared of it not being received well."
Live Performances and Inspirations
This year marked a pivotal moment for NURD as they took the stage with a live band for the first time. The experience was transformative, planting the seeds for future ambitions. "I want my own band and dancers, making it a vibe and a production," NURD enthuses, citing Beyoncé and SZA as influences for their stage presence.
Milestones and Triumphs
NURD's journey is punctuated by notable milestones, including a gig in Dallas, Texas, and winning "Hottest R&B of the Year" for the song "Hot & Heavy." Their music video for the same track soared past 50K views on YouTube, and NURD is set to make waves on the reality show, "Reality Hip Hop TV" on Royal K TV.
Influences and Lessons
NURD's sound is a fusion of neosoul from the '90s, gospel, blues, and R&B, drawing inspiration from musical giants like Erykah Badu, SZA, Nina Simone, Chris Brown, and Usher. Their advice for budding artists? "Just be consistent and be daring. There’s no wrongs in this."
Connecting with the Audience
NURD stays grounded by connecting with fans on a personal level. From text blasts to sharing glimpses of their day-to-day life, they want fans to know that growth is a continuous journey. "I want them to know we don’t have it all together; just keep growing."
A Butterfly in Song
As NURD looks ahead to 2024 with the release of their third project, it's clear that this soulful butterfly is ready to spread its wings. With a commitment to authenticity, vulnerability, and continuous growth, NURD is not just an artist; they're a force to be reckoned with in the ever-evolving landscape of R&B and soul. Keep an eye out for NURD; the journey has only just begun.
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