First of all, tell us about yourself, who are you and what do you do?

I’m Nadedja, I’m a singer/songwriter originally from Brazil, but leaving in the North-East of the UK for the past 2 and a half years. 

My music is a mix of many styles I’ve gathered along the way. It’s a somewhere between Folk, Pop, RnB, maybe a bit of Indie, it’s hard to say! All I can say is that I write from my experiences and from my heart, it’s a very personal process! 

Why did you choose to become a musician/songwriter?

I wrote my first song when I was 12, songwriting has been in the background of my life ever since! It was only after trying other careers and not liking them, I finally decided to give music a real try! 

I’ve been doing music professionally since moving to the UK, and it’s the best decision I’ve ever made! Songwriting gives me a sense of purpose; it’s a natural and important part of who I am. It’s a way of connecting with others and speaking my truth. Listening to music really helps me to come to terms with my feelings, and I want to give that back to others through what I write. I’m also extremely passionate about the music scene in the North-East.

As a young musician/songwriter, who were some of your biggest inspirations?

There’s a lot of people, but specially Norah Jones, Sara Bareilles, Jimi Hendrix and Johnny Cash! I still love them so much! 

What do you feel is your biggest achievement in music so far?

I think it’s doing it, from nothing. Coming to the UK with no contacts or knowledge of how the industry works, and somehow finding my way through it. It’s a real dream come true for me! 

What are your biggest aspirations within the music industry?

All I can wish for is to keep feeling inspired to write music with authenticity. I want my music to make a difference, giving shelter, compassion and a voice to people who might really need that. I just want to make art that matters. 

If you could go back and give yourself one piece of advice as a young musician/songwriter, what would it be and why?

Life may not make much sense now, but you’re gonna find your way girl! Just keep doing what you’re doing, keep yourself strong! (I’m thankful for my journey, with time I accepted that everything that has ever happened helped me be become who I am)

Why is music education so important?

I wish I had music in school growing up. I think I would’ve found my way through music much faster, however I was very fortunate to have parents that listened and could give me opportunities. I had private lessons as a kid with guitar and piano, which was so important. I believe that music education can make such a difference in so many kid’s lives. I wish people would understand just how much your soul needs to be fed with the creative arts as well as practical subjects. Kids sing before they speak and dance before they walk. We’re expressive beings!