Today we’d like to introduce you to Nailah Vazquez.
Hi Nailah, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Originally from Pennsylvania, I have been a musician/ vocalist for about 17 years now! Starting with voice and eventually even picking up the saxophone at age eight. I graduated from a small performing arts high school majoring in Jazz and Classical music, after school I began my career as a performer in my hometown, performing anywhere I could alongside my bandmate Quin Jaye whom I’ve been doing music with for 11 years. My style is jazz improvisation and neo-soul with a focus on scatting and vocal instrumentation making my sound the perfect music to ride around to or even meditate to. My lyrics are centered around mental health and healing but of course, always keeping things relatable and for perception, my first EP GEMINAI is about my self-journey with bipolar disorder and PTSD. Now that I’m in LA I have been doing a number of things such as musical directing, songwriting for others and even obtaining a residency! I’ve also dropped two songs “lost soul” produced by Clyde ash and “Hit or Miss” produced by Guy and Charlie Kornblum available on streaming platforms. I hope I can continue to thrive in my new home and keep creating unforgettable sounds the opportunities are endless!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Haha, it has 100% not an easy road but I remain grateful through anything. I mean the struggles vary, but I guess there is always a bright side. I’ve struggled finding a place to live when moving here, sexism in the industry and of course a f*ck ton of self-doubt. But it’s all about how you navigate yourself through these difficult moments! You don’t take me seriously? Cool! I do and so will someone else.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I think what separates me from everyone is the open heart that I can have when it comes to what I write about and what I’m able to share. Everything isn’t perfect and everyone is flawed and I think I want everyone to know that it’s okay to not be okay. I specialize in improv and freestyling making my voice an instrument and fluctuating to keep things interesting. I’m really proud of how far my boundaries have been pushed trying to reach my goals, I really am capable of anything and it’s been such a great experience
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
I love telling people that I can sing classical music! My range goes all the way up to a soprano 1 which is super high! It took me two years of classical training to get there! I also demolish houses haha.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geminai23/
- Youtube: https://youtu.be/XOeqtoyVxTU
Image Credits
Guy Clyde William Chapin Garretts Archive
