FACES: What role did your parents play in helping you chase your dream growing up?
NAYANA: We were also more of a sports family, but I was in piano lessons at only 3 years old. As I got older, my parents started to notice my voice as I casually sang songs around the house, and so they enrolled me in vocal lessons. I begged them to buy my first guitar at 11, and that’s when I started writing songs. They never thought I would actually stick with it, but over 10 years later, here I am pursuing the very same dream. My parents have driven me to countless music lessons, countless recitals, performances, auditions and competitions across Ontario, all the way to Nashville and so much more. They have supported me every step of the way, and I owe so much of my success to them.
Tell us about your new single, ‘Bought Me A Drink.’ What can listeners expect from the song, and the music video?
I wrote my brand new single “Bought Me A Drink” in Nashville with my good friend and host of Pure Country Radio, Tanaeya Taylor. We had so much fun writing this one. It’s a playful and upbeat song, written by the girls and for the girls. I was lucky enough to have stayed at SOCAN’s Nashville House for Canadian songwriters, which is how the song really came to life.
You are headed to Nashville in April – what’s your favourite part about the music scene there?
Nashville is the heart of country music and I’ve been so lucky to travel between here and there so often. The possibilities are endless. There are so many friendly and like minded musicians who really just want to write together and support each other, so it’s a lot of fun. Everyone is so talented and inspiring. My goal is to sign with an agency and move full time within the next few years. You never know who you may run into down there which makes everyday exciting and so special.
What’s your favourite thing about performing and touring?
The best part about what I do, is getting to be on stage in front of a crowd. Performing is where I feel most confident and get to make the best memories. Whether it’s an acoustic show with myself and my guitar, or a big production with my bandmates, my number one rule is to have fun and make sure everyone else is having fun too. I am extremely lucky to get to play with some absolutely incredible musicians who make my job feel easy. I’ve got the best cream including drummer James Reid, bass player Alex Jewell and lead guitarist Dave Williamson, all currently based around Ottawa, ON.
How have you worked to define your signature style and sound?
As far as my style and sound go, I really just do what I like in the moment and what feels good. I don’t think I will ever stop changing and evolving. I want my music to grow with me and with the people who listen to it. My music will always be a reflection of my life experiences, thoughts and feelings, whatever those may be.
