In an era dominated by digital technology and ubiquitous AI, Nadia Kadek stands out as a refreshing presence. Her sincere narratives about the anxieties of growing up resonate with genuine emotion and a longing for connection that transcends mere interaction and algorithms. She captures the enchanting charm of coming-of-age storytelling reminiscent of early beabadoobee or, more recently, Nell Mescal. Recently, she has become a regular on the festival circuit, having performed at Glastonbury (where she was named runner-up in the festival’s Emerging Talent Competition last year), Latitude, and BST Hyde Park. To celebrate the launch of her debut EP, we spoke with Nadia to learn about her musical journey, gather some insights, and find out about her favorite comfort foods.
Having grown up in Norfolk with British-Indonesian heritage, how did your background and hometown shape your musical education? Did you embrace your family’s tastes? Were there venues nearby or a notable music scene? I was fortunate to attend shows and festivals as a child. My earliest memory is of going to Camp Bestival when I was six, where we listened to Florence + The Machine during the drive, and I ended up on a stranger’s shoulders watching her perform that same weekend. That thrilling upbringing motivated me to seek out live music as I grew older, even though there wasn’t a prominent scene or many venues in my hometown.
What can you tell us about your first instrument? I took guitar lessons until I was 11 but then shifted my focus to classical singing. However, at 15, I realized I couldn’t fully express myself with just that, so I picked up the guitar again and learned how to play while writing my own songs. I still feel a bit lost on the guitar, but I enjoy the spontaneity and instinctual nature of my playing.
Your debut EP, ‘Green Car’, explores the bittersweet journey of coming of age and navigating adulthood. Are there specific albums, books, or films you frequently revisit to reconnect with your childhood or teenage years? Coraline has been my favorite film for as long as I can recall; it’s so cleverly crafted that I don’t think I could ever outgrow it. Phoebe Bridgers’ entire discography served as the soundtrack to my life from ages 16 to 18, providing comfort during my teenage struggles. If I find myself listening to her now, it usually means something is amiss, and it can be so emotional that I’ve had to impose a ban on myself from her music!
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