Singer songwriter Nnancy has released Murder on Your Mind is about young love and deception – and finding out that a person is not who they pretend to be. Here the Russian singer, who is based in London, tells Entertainment Now how making music has really been a lifeline for her – which has helped her stay true to herself.
How did your musical project first start? Is there a story to tell about it?
My project began as a deeply personal journey. Music has always been a way for me to express emotions I couldn’t put into words. In February 2022, when the war between Russia and Ukraine started, I was alone in London. Writing songs was my only way of processing these emotions, and it felt natural to share that vulnerability through my music. What started as a personal escape evolved into a meaningful way to connect with others.
What was your first gig?
My first gig was incredibly intimate, a small venue where I performed for people who really listened. Sharing songs that came from such a personal place felt vulnerable, yet seeing people connect with my music gave me confidence. At the same time, I have such diverse music that can bring listeners through a journey of emotions. So I really wanted to combine this personal approach with some elements of the show, even though it wasn’t a big venue and I organized everything on my own. It was one of the best days of my life and I’m eager to perform more and more!
How have your music/live performances been received by fans?
People have been incredibly supportive. Many of my listeners have shared after the show how my music resonates with their own experiences, which is the greatest reward for me as an artist. Live performances are especially meaningful because they allow me to connect with listeners in real time and see their eyes, it’s the best thing on earth.
What three words best describe your musical style and why?
Emotive, cinematic, dynamic. My music is emotional, telling personal and universal stories. It’s cinematic because I aim to create sounds that take listeners on a journey. And it’s dynamic, mixing genres and moods to reflect life’s complexity.
Who are your biggest musical influences?
My influences are really diverse, from the lyricism of Billy Joel to the cinematic style of Lana Del Rey. Rock bands like Scorpions and Red Hot Chili Peppers inspire the energy I want to bring to my music, while modern artists like Billie Eilish encourage me to experiment and find my unique sound!
Tell us about your new release.
I think I can tell you about this song with just one powerful lyric from it – “how kill the person you really are?” This song reflects the desire to show our best side to new people, whether it’s a partner, friend, or coworker. It’s natural to want to make a good impression, but it becomes a problem when we go too far. When we hide our true selves, we create an illusion, and that can lead to pain in any kind of relationships. Falling in love with someone’s false image, or having someone fall for a version of you that isn’t real, can be devastating. It might even make them want to erase you from their life entirely. That’s why it’s so important to know when to stop. It’s fine to want to be liked, but it should never come at the cost of losing who you really are. This lyric is a reminder to stay authentic and not let the desire to impress turn into a betrayal of the people around you or yourself.
What inspires your lyrics?
I have a deep love for people and for exploring the experiences we all share as human beings. When I was writing this song, I didn’t have a specific situation in mind. I was simply tapping into what I was feeling at that time, and the lyrics seemed to take on a life of their own. It’s like the song created itself in my head, shaping a story from the emotions and thoughts that felt deeply human to me.
For me, songwriting is about exploring the shared human experiences that connect us all. I also find endless inspiration in the relationships between people, whether it’s friendships, family, love or any other. I try to take these moments of our lives and turn them into something meaningful that others can connect with and relate to.
How do you hope listeners will feel after hearing your music?
Music found me when I was at my lowest, and that’s reflected in my earlier songs. So I want my listeners to feel the emotions and find a part of their own story in my songs. I hope they feel seen, understood, and less alone. As I grow, I feel a range of emotions, and I want my music to capture all of them. That’s why I allow myself to create freely and explore different feelings in my songs. But my music is all about connecting with others on an emotional level. Whether it’s offering comfort during tough times and creating a space for reflection or simply dancing together and boost their confidence.
Do you have any upcoming tour dates?
Not yet, but I’m working on putting together live performances for next year! I want to create intimate shows where I can connect with fans in a meaningful way. (Also, I really hope I will be able to do so with my student visa haha)
What are you band working on next?
Right now, I’m focused on finishing an album and experimenting with new sounds and styles. I’m also trying to build a small, trusted team to help bring my vision to life. Beyond that, I’m excited to share my new single in January and explore the next steps in my journey as an artist!
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