REVIEW: Nneka - ULU
- Posted on March 19, 2007 10:24 AM
- 1 comment
Nigerian artist Nneka hits ULU!
By Laura Yates
Saturday evening at ULU, London. A keen music lover, I was extremely excited about the prospect of enjoying music of the Nigerian genre, although I have to admit I was unsure of what to expect as the event was named ‘Afro-pop Live’ a style of music I am unfamiliar with. The headlining artist Nneka, whom I was attending the event to see specifically simply blew me away.
Born in Nigeria, twenty five years ago, Nneka moved to Germany where she has been singing professionally for the past few years. Her lucky breaks, include supporting artists such as Sean Paul, have helped raise her profile but in my opinion (and I’m sure the one of many others!) the music does it all on its own.
Already knowing what the young artist looked like, I immediately spotted her in the audience watching the other acts. However, I think had I have not seen her promotional photographs I would have had a suspicion that it was indeed her. At no taller than 5 feet tall wearing combat trousers and over sized shirt Nneka can only be described as naturally beautiful and had an air of such mystery and confidence; I couldn’t wait for her to hit the stage. Her performance was incredible and supported fantastically by her band with whom she obviously has a great relationship and connection with.
This artist is a pure example of someone who is truly passionate about music and genuinely believes in what she is singing about. It is not about standing centre stage or adoring fans (although the audience clearly adore her!); when Nneka sings it is with soul. Her lyrics are both conscious and heartfelt which is so refreshing to hear from an artist of today. I was particularly moved by the song ‘Confessions’ and her opening track ‘The Uncomfortable Truth’ a deep and soulful funk track and one in which her voice made me shiver. Nneka uses her voice in so many diverse ways which only enhances her performance – to express emotion, create impact, and to emphasise the tone of the song. Technically her vocal range is incredible; the audience were clearly impressed!
I think Nneka is a young girl who has a lot to say and uses her songs as a way of expressing her frustrations. She certainly hits out at critics who say she is too young to have such strong views. Personally I don’t believe anyone is too young to have an opinion and it is refreshing to hear an artist have something positive to say – the fact that she achieves this with a mixture of pure Hip Hop and soulful songs is a great achievement. It also helps the audience identify with issues they can relate to.
Nneka has been described by critics as the new Lauren Hill. This is a fantastic compliment for any female vocalist but I still believe that Nneka is very unique as an artist. She commands both the stage and the audience with her vocals and presence. During one of her songs, she choked on her water and decided to just start the song again after claiming "Sorry I just choked’. It takes a special kind of confidence to do this and the audience (me included) loved her humour!
This young artist is definitely one to look out for. A stunning voice, a beautiful appearance and clearly an intelligent young lady. What I found most appealing however was her humble attitude to the audience. She was genuinely so thankful to be able to stand on that stage and simply entertain. I believe Nneka probably is unaware of the extent of her talent – a very endearing quality. She never fails to lose the deep soulful funk of her tracks with a wide mixture of up-tempo and ballads and maintains that husky vocal quality that is her trademark sound. A truly remarkable performance.
Did you see Nnek live? Did the pint-sized lady with the big voice move you too? Tell us all about it in the comments section. Fellow pint-sized music buff Katie chatted to Nneka before the gig. Watch this space for the full interview.
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Comments (1)
Nasra
She isnpired me with her music
Posted on April 21, 2007 2:08 AM
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