Nneka: Soul is Heavy
“Where do I go when this world forsakes me?” asks Nneka Egbuna on “My Home,” from her second U.S. full-length, Soul is Heavy. The question is not rhetorical; she really needs an answer. These songs chronicle spiritual despair and confusion, a sense of existential turmoil that in this context sounds larger than one person. Yet, Nneka refuses to wallow in misery, perhaps realizing that it would make for tedious music; instead, the Nigerian singer-songwriter clings to some shred of hope as she tries to rebuild her faith anew. read more
Found in: Music, ReviewsNewport Folk Festival 2010 Photos Ft. Avett Brothers, Brandi Carlile, Andrew Bird, Swell Season, More
Photos by Brian Lima... read more
Found in: Blogs, 1000 WordsNneka: Concrete Jungle
Pride, but no prejudice This 28-year-old’s U.S. debut could hardly be more appropriately titled. Concrete Jungle captures Nneka’s steely resolve and desire to flourish in an unforgiving world. The album is both affirmative and entertaining, addressing themes of political upheaval, reconciliation and the ignorance that so often comes with privilege. Her velvety voice is backed by smooth horns and fierce drum beats; “Mind vs. Heart,” a plea for self-awareness and compassion (“What is the mind without the heart? / What am I without my shadow?”), stands in stark contrast to the exuberant “From Africa 2 U,” which builds its chorus... read more
Found in: Music, ReviewsBest of What's Next: Nneka
In 2000, like so many other teenagers before her... read more
Found in: Music, FeaturesNine First-Name-Only Female Artists Not Called Ke$ha
Over the past month or so, several factors have encouraged my decision to avoid at all costs... read more
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