Let’s talk about the unique journey of Nalaya Brown, a talented singer born in Tenerife, Spain, known for her remarkable voice and unparalleled versatility. From the jazz club stages in Madrid to the biggest international festivals like Rock in Rio, Nalaya captivates audiences with her authenticity and passion for music. Admired by the LGBTQIAP+ community and revered as one of the great voices of the world, she shares her experiences with us from the early steps in her career to the most memorable moments of her journey.
In a candid and inspiring conversation, Nalaya takes us through the ups and downs of her career, revealing how her move to Madrid and her residency at the iconic SuperMartxé in Ibiza shaped her musical identity. Sharing her influences ranging from Rhythm & Blues to Latin jazz, Nalaya highlights the importance of artists like Beyoncé, Michael Jackson, and Irakere in her artistic journey.
Additionally, Nalaya gifts us with sincere accounts of her recent residency at a jazz club in Dubai, showing how this personal experience was a significant milestone in her career. Expressing gratitude for her participation in the “High Energy” project, Nalaya conveys her hope and enthusiasm for the future, inspiring us with her passion for music and diversity. Get ready to be moved and enchanted by the voice and inspiring story of Nalaya Brown:
Nalaya, tell us about the beginning of your career.
I arrived in Madrid in 2002 to study music and sang in jazz clubs. But other opportunities arose, and I ended up recording with the big names of the Spanish electronic scene. I never imagined that Dance Music would change my life.
How was the change from Tenerife to the big city, Madrid?
At first, it was a bit difficult to be away from family and friends. But every dream has its sacrifice, and I received a lot of support from everyone. Although I was very young, the motivation was enormous.
How was your preparation to become one of the most important names in European electronic music?
Well, I didn’t really prepare myself. Things happened gradually. I started singing and improvising on electronic beats. Coming from Jazz and Soul, it was easier for me. Until I started singing original songs and interesting covers that I listened to and analyzed from the most famous DJs of the time.
The last time we shared the stage was in 2019, at Madrid’s Gay Pride parade. At that moment, I noticed how much the LGBT audience admires you. How has your relationship with this audience been over the years?
I love this audience; they have always been faithful to my work. Despite changes in musical styles (I’ve done some commercial work with record labels), they have never left me alone. I owe them a lot.
In 2015, you were one of the stars of La Voz (The Voice Spain). How did this experience affect your career?
La Voz helped me become more known because until then, I was known by the electronic music audience. Showing that I could sing different styles helped me open up other markets.
Undoubtedly, you’ve had many unforgettable nights at SuperMartxé in Ibiza. Can you share a memorable moment from your years of residency?
I have millions of incredible moments in Ibiza. It’s hard to pinpoint one because every Friday, the energy was different. But stepping onto a stage for 15,000 people created a huge responsibility for me, and I worked hard during the week to ensure the performances were always unforgettable.
Among your influences are Rhythm & Blues, Soul, and Latin Music. Which artists influence you the most?
I’m inspired by many artists, including Beyoncé, Michael Jackson, and Stevie Wonder. In Latin jazz, I love groups with a lot of fusion, like Irakere, Concha Buika, Jill Scott, Incognito, Kali Uchis, Maro, and Yebba.
You recently had a residency at a jazz club in Dubai. I see this as a personal achievement. How did this invitation come about, and how was the experience?
It’s not every day you sing at Quincy Jones’s jazz club in Dubai. So I worked very, very hard. When they called me from Los Angeles, I cried a lot and thanked life. I can say it was a dream come true.
Thank you very much for being part of “High Energy.” This project means a lot to me, and having you as a vocalist is a true gift! I wish your career continues to soar; you deserve it!
Thank you for having me in this project! I hope the audience will be very receptive to this wonderful cover and dance to it all over the world.
DJ Ana Paula
Reporter and Columnist
