Today we’d like to introduce you to Nathaniel Willemse
Hi Nathaniel, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Born in Cape Town, South Africa my parents moved to Melbourne when i was six and encouraged my singing ability at an early age. I have lived in Melbourne, Australia most of my life and recently made the big move to LA in 2021 after COVID settled down.
My career highlights have been working with major stars such as Brian McKnight, Craig David, Maxwell, D’Angelo, Musiq Soulchild, Aloe Blacc and Common. I was given the opportunity to support artist Mariah Carey on her National tour in Australia where she invited me to perform ‘One Sweet Day’ on stage with her, a song she rarely performs live. It was definitely a defining moment in my career.
I made the big move to LA to pursue my dream of having a successful career in the music industry. I’m passionate, focused and continue to push myself as a singer, songwriter and producer. I don’t believe in limitations. I’m a big dreamer and I want to keep pushing myself.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely has not been an easy ride. The independent artist journey has had its ups and downs but I have learnt so much. You are the director of your own ship and at the end of the day you are the one that needs to propel yourself and your career forward.
After years of continuing as an independent artist I decided to move to LA and hit the big stage. At this time COVID hit the world and my plans were halted for about three years. I was basically indoors struggling to keep up the momentum with my music and wondering where the industry would be at the end of it. I made the decision to keep going and make my dream a reality. I made the move and been here since.
It’s definitely been a tough journey. It takes a lot to keep yourself focused and optimistic when 90 per cent of the people you meet don’t have your vision.
I’m determined to keep the wheels moving and celebrate the small and big wins along the way. Any failed attempt has been an incredible learning opportunity and I’m forever grateful to be able to do what I’m doing.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
When I first got involved with Australia’s X-Factor show it catapulted at that point. I was Top 6 on the show. I was rewarded with a National Top 5 debut single recognition of ‘You’, an R&B Pop jam accredited me with an ARIA nomination and triple platinum sales. I then released my uptempo funk hit ‘Live Louder’ which also accredited me with double platinum recognition and an ARIA nomination.
I have worked with some established singers and songwriters out here and continue to work on my craft. One of things I enjoy most is being in the studio with other creatives. I love to collaborate and some days I’ll end up on the keys or the pianos and surprise myself with what comes out of a studio session. It’s incredible how artists can really inspire each other when we’re in a creative space.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
What matters most to me at this point in my life is having my family beside me. I’m grateful for that everyday. My wife and kids are my motivating force. The music is always there and it has its peaks and troughs but the love for my family is constant. I always keep that as my grounding point. Music will always be my second love!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itisnathaniel?igsh=MWQ1ZGUxMzBkMA==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itisnathaniel
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/itisnathaniel
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2C0Cu6wbLYQyXl8MDwH2JE?si=Kxs80yXETZeuV-uNjcuqXQ
