We recently connected with Noa Jamir and have shared our conversation below.
Noa, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
The most meaningful project I’ve worked on thus far would probably be my debut album, ‘Cicada’. It’s a compact record that spans two years of writing and recording, and follows my life throughout the process. I was so sad when writing most of those songs, and at the time, it kind of felt like I would always feel that way. ‘Cicada’ is meaningful to me because it’s been a reminder that things do get better, you can leave a dark place better than you found it. The album was also made with friends near and far, and that makes it all the more special to me. It wouldn’t be the same without them.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Music has brought joy and comfort to my life since I was a kid, and I feel like it’s something that continues to grow up with me. This might sound a little silly, but creating music is genuinely the one space that I don’t feel incompetent or like I am missing some crucial piece. Music helps me feel whole and seen, and I think I’ve always felt most comfortable in spaces where it is celebrated.
A lot of my inspirations are artists my parents introduced me to, people like Sade, Erykah Badu, Maxwell, and so many more soul artists. But also, some of my biggest inspirations are my friends who are fellow musicians. They’ve written my favorite songs and have inspired me to be the artist I want to be.
I still have so much room to grow as an artist, and I’m learning how to move in ways that feel most natural and true. And my hope is for each project to reflect that.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being a singer/songwriter to me is connecting with people, on a level that feels deeper than words can truly explain. Sharing a song or any piece of art with someone else is such an intimate thing to do. I think it takes trust and openness on both sides, both the artist and the receiver. There really is nothing quite like it. I’ve found it to be the most fulfilling part. I used to be so nervous to do shows, I almost dreaded doing them. But now it’s something I ache to do, and love to do with all my heart.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
I think going to shows is so important. It’s one of the best ways to directly support artists these days. There are so many shows happening every day —which I know can be a little bit overwhelming at times— but these shows can be life changing. I can’t count the number of times I was in need of inspiration, or a good cry, or just a fun time, and stumbled upon an underground band who completely blew my mind. Those kinds of experiences stick with you for a long time, and the friends you make in those places stay with you, too. Live music is so important, it’s so good for the heart and soul. I couldn’t stress it enough.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noajams/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@noajamir?feature=shared
Image Credits
Alexis Pierre
Lillian Wilkin
Gwendolyn Hollinger