Interview With One of South Africa’s Most Successful Pop Artists, Olisha Naicker

What attracted you to the area of music you work in? What music do you grow up listening to?

I grew up listening to pop music…Backstreet Boys, Celine Dion, Kylie Minogue. I love the big choruses and beautiful melodies that you can’t get out of your head.

What is your local music scene like? How do you think you fit in?

The local music scene right now is heavily on hip hop music, Afrikaans music and gospel music.

Has your Indian heritage affected either the music you make or the make-up of your audience?

My Indian heritage has not affected the way I make or listen to music. I love listening to many genres of music from pop, r n b, hip hop to Punjabi and Bollywood music. Being Asian, I do get lots of support from my Asian community because we love to support someone who is trying to break boundaries of colour and do good in the world.

With my music, I want to break down boundaries in the mainstream music industry and bring people together. Yes, I am Asian and proud to be. I want to be the best artist I can possibly be and I will never stop in achieving and maintaining my dream. Just like the artists before me…Jay Sean, Jaz Dhami, Juggy D etc.

Tell us about how you go about creating your music, from initial idea to completion. 

It usually starts with lyrics, and melody in my head. Late at night is usually with I am at my creative best. I then grab a guitar or piano to structure what’s in my head and get the song together with the melody and lyrics. Then I take my composition to the studio and between myself and my producer, we bring the song to life.

Tell us about the inspiration and making of the video which accompanies your single, Strangers

Being the first video of mine being released in the international market, I wanted the video to be simple yet effective in showcasing the song. I want people to focus on the song and its message. The song has a simple message of trying to let go of someone who is now a stranger to you. I wanted the video to compliment the song’s simplicity. The video was shot in a day. I did most of the preparation myself in terms of getting my looks for the video together, did my own hair, practiced the choreography etc. I am very hands-on with all aspects of my career.

You’ve got a huge concert lined up – what would be your dream venue?

Definitely the 02 Arena in London.

What would be your ultimate aim in the industry?

I want to break down boundaries and make history. I want to bring people of all walks of life together through my music. I write music from my heart. I want people to relate to my music and hopefully help them get through something that they experiencing in life.

Is there anything you would like people to know about your current release?

The project is self-funded and every aspect of my music is straight from my heart to you. I believe in myself. I believe in my dream. I believe in breaking down boundaries and making history through my music.

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