Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nalu. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Nalu, appreciate you joining us today. Can you share an important lesson you learned in a prior job that’s helped you in your career afterwards?

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned came from working in the marketing department of an e-commerce agency. I saw how having strong internal processes made everything run smoothly, from launching campaigns to tracking performance. What stood out was how those processes weren’t rigid, they evolved and improved over time. That taught me the importance of refining systems to support creativity and growth.
As an artist, it’s easy to fall into the habit of constantly trying new methods or letting creativity guide the way without much thought for structure. And while that’s an important part of art, I realised that having some level of process is just as important. Having a process allows me to streamline my work, track my progress, and reflect on what’s working and what’s not. It’s about finding the balance between creativity and organisation which makes my art and business more intentional and impactful.

Nalu, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m Nalu, a South African-born singer, songwriter and musician. My creative journey began in Cape Town, growing up in a culturally rich household where self-expression through art was always encouraged by my musical parents and supportive older brother. My sound is a blend of jazz, RnB, acoustic soul and lo-fi, with lyrics that dive deep into themes of womanhood, self-love and the intricacies of our human experience. Playing instruments like the guitar, piano and flute, I aim to create a world through my music that feels soulful, authentic and empowering.

My work has connected me with some incredible collaborators, including Snoop Dogg’s Death Row Records, Red Bull Studios, and brands like Coca-Cola, Nivea and Birkenstock International. These collaborations have allowed me to share my stories on a global stage, but at the heart of it all, my goal is always to foster human connection. What sets me apart is my focus on creating music that not only celebrates individuality but also sparks meaningful conversations about womanhood, love and social norms. I’m most proud of using my platform to empower others while staying true to my ever-evolving artistry. Through my music, I hope to inspire people to embrace their truest selves and find liberation in their own stories.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

One thing I think non-creatives may struggle to understand is how deeply personal the creative journey is. For many of us, as artists, our work is an extension of who we are, it’s not just something we do, it’s how we process the world, our emotions and our experiences. When we share our art, we’re essentially sharing a piece of ourselves, which can feel vulnerable and even scary at times.

Another thing is how unpredictable and nonlinear this path can be. There’s no clear roadmap, and a lot of what we do involves taking risks, facing rejection and constantly adapting the current landscape. What keeps me going is my belief that creativity is meant to connect and inspire others, so while it might seem uncertain from the outside, for me, every step, no matter how challenging, is a chance to grow, evolve and tell stories that matter.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

I think the best way society can support artists and a thriving creative ecosystem is by truly valuing creativity; not just as entertainment, but as something essential to our humanity and collective growth. This starts with creating spaces and opportunities where artists feel seen, heard and supported, whether that’s through grants, accessible resources or platforms to share their work.

It’s also about shifting the narrative around creative work. People often underestimate the time, effort and emotional energy that goes into making art. Supporting artists means acknowledging that their contributions are just as significant as any other profession. If we can foster an environment where creativity is nurtured and artists are compensated fairly, we allow them to focus on what they do best, creating art that connects, inspires and challenges us to see the world differently.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naaaaluuuuu/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@naaaaluuuuu/
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@naaaaluuuuu

Image Credits

Performance Images – Aaron Polikoff

H&M Images – Bez August & Saulegh Hendricks