We sat down with Amsterdam based, alt R&B producer and singer-songwriter, Nambyar, to talk music, fashion and what’s up and coming for this year.
You’ve just released the visuals for your new track Once More. Can you give us some information about the track?
Once More is my second single and is the song that made me realise I had written something that would change a lot for me. It made me realise, for the first time I was being honest to myself. I needed to cut loose and accept the loss. I was in a difficult relationship and in a band, that did not work, I did everything to try and save it.
Describe your sound?
I make alternative R&B with analogue sounds.
Who influences you musically?
When I was young my Dad had a lot of music, I grew up with 60’s music because of my Dad who was a hippie from San Francisco. Growing up in the 80’s I was listening to a lot of stuff like Hall and Oates but also Nirvana, 2Pac, Michael Jackson, Prince and D’Angelo in the 90’s.
When did you first realise you could make a career in music?
When I was playing large venues like the Paradiso and Melkweg in Amsterdam, but also when I heard my first song on the radio.
What do you most enjoy about being a musician?
Doing something that I love the most, expressing myself through music.
If you could collaborate with one other artist in the world, who would it be?
Bon Iver, I think he is constantly reinventing himself, which is something I admire.
Where is the most memorable venue you’ve ever played?
At Jakarta Soulnation, a festival in Indonesia. Indonesian People have music in their hearts and you can really feel it.
What is the most memorable performance you’ve ever seen?
Michael Jackson History Tour, I was 12 standing in the Arena in Amsterdam… He came in a spaceship through the stage! I could not believe my eyes.
What’s your favourite song at the moment?
Element by Kendrick Lamar, I love the sound of this song! You can really hear that James Blake was on top on this production.
Who’s your favourite artist at the moment?
Jordan Rakei, he is also playing Pitch festival! I love his sound and voice.
Are you going to any music festivals this year? Playing or attending?
I’m playing Pitch Festival the 1st of July in Amsterdam one of the biggest electronic festivals in the Netherlands.
What does a typical day in the life of Nambyar look like when you’re not creating music?
Gardening, I love to be in my garden and take good care of the plants I have, it’s like meditation to me. Also, going out with friends and walking alongside nature.
Drink of choice on a night out?
A good old Heineken.
Favourite film?
Blood Sport, I know it’s an old one but I still love this movie.
Describe yourself in three words?
Friend, deep thinker, control freak.
Who’s your biggest style and fashion inspiration?
My brother.
Do you have any advice for anyone wanting to make a career in music?
Making music is a lot of fun, but to me, it’s not ‘something I just feel like doing’, personally I think a real career in music is only possible if you have the need and urge to do it, almost like you must. It’s something you should live, with no holding back… If you feel that, you’re in a good place.
Thanks Nambyar.
Check out the video for his latest track below:
