Talked to NAO NME About getting back in the game and planning to experiment with new music. Watch our full video interview with the singer above.
Speaking on the red carpet at last week’s MOBO Awards, the London-based singer-songwriter told us about her return to the music world after some time away.
“I’ve been out of the game for a while and I feel like I’ve been out of the game for years,” he said. NME. “At that time I had a child and focused on my health. I feel like I’m back in the game for the first time.”
NAO, who suffers from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, spoke about how it was difficult to keep up with the artist’s high-octane lifestyle.
“I’m just tired and down, but I’ve put my health first and it’s great to celebrate that by getting this nomination and being back here with so many amazing artists.” she is.
It’s been two years since his third studio album, And Then It Was Beautiful. Reflecting on the record, he said: “Looking back, this album came out in 2020 and a lot has changed. This album was really about hope. Everything will get better, and in a way it will. The world is in a crazy place right now, so there’s still a way to go, but it’s nice to be here.
When asked what’s next for the 35-year-old, she said: “I think I’m going to release new music. I’m writing right now, I’m ready to release a new sound and experience. Flirting with sounds is what I do.”
NAO was nominated for Best R&B/Soul Act but lost to Mahalia, along with fellow nominees Miraa May, Ella May, Shakka and Tiana Major9.
This year’s MOBO Awards took place at the OVO Wembley Arena and marked the 25th anniversary of the iconic awards ceremony. The night saw the likes of Beenie Man, Eliza Rose and Tion Wayne perform, while Craig David and Neil Rogers received prestigious career achievement awards. David won the Outstanding Contribution Award and Rodgers received the Lifetime Achievement Award.