It takes only a few minutes in the company of Nectar Woode to understand why the entire British soul scene is starting to talk about her. At just 26 years old, the London-based singer-songwriter and producer cultivates a rare elegance: a enveloping voice, songs that oscillate between jazz, neo-soul, and alternative R&B, but above all, a great kindness. Born in Milton Keynes, England, to a Ghanaian father, an amateur saxophonist, and an English mother, an artist and seamstress, she grew up in a house where creativity was a given. Self-taught on guitar from age 15, before pursuing popular music studies at the ICMP in London, she is now building a universe that increasingly resembles her.

Her new mixtape 'Naturally', released two weeks ago, marks an important step. "It's a collection of songs for everyone to enjoy during the summer..." she smiles. Behind the warm sounds, however, hide themes that are sometimes darker than her beginnings. "I talk about the grief of childhood, relationships that fade away, heavier things. I feel like I'm going further, both in the lyrics and in the sounds."

This evolution is particularly audible on 'Lights Off', undoubtedly the most personal track of the project. "I was frustrated by all these people who think they know me when they don't even take the time to do so. With social media, everyone has an opinion about you. I wanted to write a song that turns off all those voices to simply follow what I want to do." A stance that perfectly sums up her philosophy. "I think I've always had the ability to say no. My advice is to listen to no one."

The Highs and Lows of London

This advice is one she would have liked to give herself when she arrived in London eight years ago. "I knew absolutely no one. Zero." So she scoured jam sessions, formed groups with her university classmates, and spent hours dissecting jazz harmonies. Today, with hindsight, she knows what she would say to the young woman she was. "Trust yourself more. I listened too much to others' tastes instead of believing in my own."

London is also at the heart of one of the most beautiful songs on the album, 'Message to London'. A declaration of love tinged with bitterness. "I love this city for its sense of community, for its mix of cultures. But at the same time, I see rents skyrocketing, buildings springing up everywhere, and some communities no longer able to survive. I had all these contradictory emotions." In the studio, her co-writers then suggested a simple idea: "Why not talk to London as if it were a person?" The track was born.

Music Fan... And Football Fan

One of the craziest stories in her journey, however, bears another name: Elton John. Long before their collaboration, the British legend had spotted one of her very first songs on his show 'Rocket Hour'. "Elton is incredible at putting emerging artists in the spotlight. He listens to a lot of music, and four years ago, he aired one of my first tracks when no one knew me." A few months later, Nectar wrote 'Wine Into Water'. Then she heard Elton say on the radio that he regretted that people no longer asked him to be a session musician. She decided to take a chance. "I simply sent an email to Elton John and he agreed to collaborate." She still bursts out laughing when telling the anecdote. "It still doesn't seem real." A story that taught her a simple lesson: "Try! You never know what can happen."

And when she leaves the recording studio, there is another field where she doesn't joke: football. A big Arsenal supporter, the singer follows the Women's World Cup with passion. "I've become completely obsessed. I watch all the matches... My sleep suffers a bit!" If she obviously supports England, her prediction is more lucid. "I think France will win because their level is incredible. But I would so love for an outsider like Morocco or Switzerland to create a surprise."

To understand the full scope of Nectar Woode's artistry, one must also consider the rich landscape of UK soul music from which she emerges. The British soul scene has historically been a melting pot of influences, from the Motown-inspired sounds of the 1960s to the more experimental, genre-blending artists of today. Nectar fits perfectly into this lineage, but with a distinct voice that sets her apart. Her self-taught background on guitar gave her a unique approach to songwriting, often starting with chord progressions that defy conventional pop structures. She cites artists like Erykah Badu, D'Angelo, and Jorja Smith as key influences, but also finds inspiration in jazz greats like Nina Simone and contemporary producers like Kaytranada. This eclectic mix results in a sound that feels both timeless and modern.

The recording process for 'Naturally' took place over several months in various London studios, with Nectar taking a hands-on role in production. She described a collaborative atmosphere where she brought in musicians from her university days and new contacts she made through jam sessions. "I wanted the mixtape to feel like a conversation," she explains. "Each track has its own story, but they all connect through the theme of authenticity. I wanted to capture the raw emotions of the past year, blending joy, melancholy, and hope." The track 'Wine Into Water' – the one that caught Elton John's attention – stands out as a testament to her maturity. Its gospel-inflected chorus and sparse instrumentation highlight her vocal prowess. Elton's contribution on piano, recorded remotely, adds a layer of gravitas that elevates the song to anthemic heights. "He was so generous with his time," Nectar recalls. "He gave notes not just on the piano part but on the arrangement as a whole. It was a masterclass in musicality."

Beyond the music, Nectar is also deeply engaged with the social issues that affect her community. In interviews, she has spoken about the challenges of being a mixed-race woman in the music industry, the pressure to conform to certain aesthetic standards, and the importance of mental health. These conversations often find their way into her lyrics. 'Lights Off', for instance, is not just about online critics but also about internal doubt. "I've struggled with impostor syndrome for years," she admits. "Even after getting positive feedback, I'd question if I deserved it. Writing this song was a way to reclaim my own narrative." Her openness has resonated with fans, particularly young women who see her as a role model. She uses her social media platforms not just to promote music but to share candid thoughts on creativity, resilience, and the realities of the industry.

The visual aspect of Nectar's artistry is equally important. The cover of 'Naturally' features a photograph taken by a close friend, showing her in a natural setting – a field of wildflowers – with minimal makeup. It's a deliberate departure from the highly polished images often seen in mainstream music. "I wanted to present myself as I am, without filters," she says. This authenticity extends to her stage presence. At the Montreux Jazz Festival, where she performed on the Lab stage, she captivated the audience with a stripped-down set that emphasized her voice and the emotional core of the songs. Critics praised her ability to fill a large space with just her presence and a few musicians. One reviewer noted that "her performance was a masterclass in restraint and power."

Looking ahead, Nectar Woode is already working on new material, though she remains tight-lipped about specifics. She hints at collaborations with other UK artists and possible expansion into film scoring. "I've always been fascinated by the way music can tell stories beyond words," she muses. "Maybe one day I'll write a soundtrack for a movie." For now, she is focused on touring and connecting with audiences in smaller, intimate venues. She believes that the best way to build a lasting career is to cultivate a loyal fanbase one show at a time. "I don't want to rush," she says. "I want every step to feel intentional."

In a music industry often driven by viral moments and fleeting trends, Nectar Woode's approach is refreshingly grounded. She refuses to chase algorithms or gimmicks. Instead, she trusts her instincts and her craft. As she prepares for a series of festival dates across Europe and the UK, she carries with her the lessons learned from her journey: the courage to send that email, the wisdom to listen only to her own voice, and the grace to stay true to her roots.

The story of Nectar Woode is still being written, but if her trajectory is any indication, it will be one marked by artistic integrity, unexpected collaborations, and a deep love for the music that moves her. And perhaps, after a few more sleepless nights watching football, she'll even find time to write a song about it.

Source:20 minutes News