While growing up in Dubai and California, nilu was surrounded by Persian classical music in the home and during frequent trips to Iran. Music and poetry nights at friends’ houses were a constant source of fun and inspiration, as nilu was enveloped by words of Hafez and notes of the santour, tombak, setar and violin. She has opened for The Airborne Toxic Event and The Pacific Symphony, displaying the accessibility of her music for both indie rock and classical audiences. With the themes of connection and contemplation coursing through her music and life, it was a natural step when nilu performed for His Holiness The Dalai Lama at his 80th birthday celebration. nilu’s journey of infinite possibilities continues as she gears up to release her debut, full length album in early 2017.
In this interview spotlight, we chat with nilu about the newest project, motivation and more.
Full Q&A along with links and streams can be found below.
Let’s dive a little deeper into You, the artist and your music. What attracted you to the genre and style of “A Thousand Tangled Lies”?
I’m all about big string sections and dreamy chord progressions that pull you in and out like waves of the ocean. ATTL touches upon the duality of emotion and learning to control certain aspects of your mind. Lyrically, there is a sort of exchange between ‘helplessness’ in the verses and ‘regaining power’ in the choruses. I used the strings and vocal section to replicate this sort of internal dialogue and dichotomous exchange between the two parts.
What led you into this journey with music? And further, what drives you to push it out to the public?
My journey with music began the moment I sat down at the piano at age 4. That was the start of the most turbulent, passionate and satisfying relationship I have ever experienced.
There was a time not long ago when I wished I could make a living singing to my cat at home .I was terrified of public performance and very shy when it came to sharing my music. Hearing that my music helped someone through a difficult time, or that my lyrics got someone through depression, I can’t describe how privileged that makes me feel…to have people let me into their lives and trust me in that way. That human connection is a huge driving force for why I continue putting my music out there.
Who or what influences your creativity? Have your tastes in music changed over time?
Emotion. Being human. Love. People. Their experiences. Social issues. Birds singing outside. So many things inspire my writing.
I’ve listened to the same few artists over the years, mostly Erykah Badu, Radiohead, Debussy, Ms. Lauryn Hill to name a few and more recently James Blake and Beach House.
Were you trying to accomplish anything specific on the project thus far with “A Thousand Tangled Lies”? Creatively or otherwise?
My hope for all these songs is to provide solace to the listener, create dialogue, and just get people thinking and talking. Lyrically, ATTL was inspired by feeling the desire to stay present among social pressures, but it takes on new meaning for me every time I sing it.
What was the last song you listened to?
Currently listening to James Blake’s “Life Round Here”
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
CDs or tapes.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
Weirdly I don’t listen to a ton of music, but when I do I use Spotify.
Other than the digital era overwhelming us with access to an abundance of music, what is the biggest challenge you face when trying to connect with or find new fans?
I think it’s important to remember this is all a marathon, and that nothing happens over night. That acquiring a dedicated fan base takes time and consistently good work. In time, the right clan will find you and support you for who you are and what you want to make. It’s not about changing your sound to get the most fans, but to honor and grow with those fans who support and encourage your development, both personally and as an artist.
Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more music?
Instagram/fb/twitter @nilumusic and my website www.nilumusic.com
Anything else you’d like to add before signing off?
More music coming soon and I’m so excited to continue this journey with those who come along. <3
