Don’t listen to the haters. They just hatin’.
Nuela Charles is known for her soulful vocals and captivating stage presence. Born in Kenya, and raised in Switzerland, Canada (Edmonton) and the Bahamas before settling in Canada, Nuela’s music is infused with her multicultural upbringing, giving a fresh and diverse flair to her sound.
Over the last few years, Nuela has brought her distinct voice to various stages, having performed at Reeperbahn Festival in Germany, London, UK, and at the uber-coveted “School Night” by personal invitation by tastemaker and LA’s KCRW radio host Chris Douridas. She has also shared the stage as direct support for some of Canada’s musical icons including Sam Roberts Band, Jann Arden and Stars.
Nuela has amassed over 4 million career streams to date and over 738,309 total YouTube worldwide views. With coverage from American Songwriter, Earmilk, and FADER, and placements on hit shows such as Jane the Virgin, Tiny Pretty Things, House of Lies, The Order and Finding Carter, Nuela is ready to release more of her fiery brand of cinematic soul.
Nuela recently released her incredible self-titled album via AWAL and all streaming platforms. The 10-track album, written and recorded with the help of LA-based producer Matt Parad (Selah Sue, William Joseph Cook), represents a sea of change for Nuela in terms of the musical direction, how she views herself and her creative process in general.
We are thankful to Nuela for giving her time for this exclusive interview for our readers.
Please introduce yourself to our readers.
Hello! My name is Nuela (new-ella) Charles. I am a 3x JUNO Award-nominated artist who was nominated against Michael Buble and lost hard. Hehe. I am a singer-songwriter, who has been fortunate enough to have some of my music placed in TV shows. And I love horses.
Tell us about your education.
I come from the school of hard knocks. Just kidding. But after getting my Bachelor’s in music it has felt like a continued education being in the music industry. It definitely is its own beast to tackle.
Share some of your childhood memories.
I’ve had a very travelled childhood. Being born in Kenya. Living in Switzerland until after kindergarten and then immigrating to Canada without speaking English. We lived on a cattle ranch for my elementary years before moving to the Bahamas for high school and then ultimately coming back to Canada. It’s definitely given me a big worldview and this continual itch to be on the move and explore new places.
How and when did you get interested in singing? What or who influenced you?
There was always music in the house. But I think it was definitely during the TRL years when artists like Avril, Fefe Dobson and Michelle Branch were taking over. They were very inspiring to a young teenage me, and definitely gave me the confidence to go on and pursue music.
How would you best describe the type of your music?
I would describe my music to be alternative/pop/soul. It definitely pulls from my influences, but is also uniquely Nuela. I tend to write with visuals in mind, and I think that’s why some of my songs worked so well on various TV shows.
What inspires your music?
Life. It sounds cliché, but I’m a very observant person. I’m introverted by nature, and could people watch all day. So I write not only about my own experiences, but also of what I see around me. I want my music to be accessible and universal thematically, so I tend to focus on things we all go through.
You have been nominated for JUNO-Awards three times. How is the feeling?
It’s an amazing feeling being recognized by your industry peers. As artists we tend to labour over our work and when we release it, we just hope that it resonates with people. So to be recognized on a national level is amazing.
This year, you also won the Her Music Awards. Did you expect this and how was your reaction?
I definitely didn’t expect it. It was so great. Again – this one was special because it was adjudicated by women in the industry that I have looked up to for a long time, so for them to see my contribution and award it, is very special.
What are some of the achievements that you are personally proud of?
Honestly, I think the fact that I’m 10 years in and still growing and getting better is what I’m most proud of. I would always tell up and coming artists to keep going, and to not quit, and these last few years I have had to remind myself of that. This industry is tough, but the fact that I’m still in it, is worth celebrating.
What is your dream or what would you like to ultimately achieve?
I would love to still be doing this in the next 10 years, on a large scale. I love travelling so touring worldwide is the ultimate goal.
What’s the inspiration behind your latest song “Top of the World”?
“Top of the World” is about reclaiming your confidence and letting the world know. We tend to dim ourselves for the benefit of others sometimes, and this is about stepping into the limelight and owning your shine and power. There’s one one you – so celebrate it.
Who writes your music?
I write my own music. I started writing over 15 years ago. Sometimes I’ll start songs by myself and then bring it to my producer to build them out. Sometimes I go into the studio fresh, and work with other writers to create something. And sometimes I’ll write a whole song start to finish. It all depends – but I’m definitely hands on when it comes to my own music.
Where have you all performed so far? Which was your favourite?
I’ve performed all over Canada, in Los Angeles, London, UK, Germany and Switzerland. I think any time I’m on stage it’s a favourite moment. But the European shows are always a great time.
Where would be your dream to perform?
I’d love to perform in a stadium one day – that’s the dream.
What message do you want to convey through your music?
I want to convey positivity, hope, and confidence. I am a confident woman. I may be quiet/shy in my personal life – but I know my worth and the value I bring, and I want others to feel that as well. We’re all special and unique.
Tell us about your new album launching on the 16th this month. Why did you decide it to be self-titled?
With my new album, I had other titles for it, but after listening through and living with it for a while, I realized that this is the epitome of what Nuela Charles sounds like. I felt like I had finally arrived and it only seemed appropriate to self-title it.
How do you unwind?
I do nothing. Hehe. I love a good movie and maybe some take out. But it’s pretty basic.
What are your favourite hangout spots in Toronto?
Admittingly I haven’t really had a chance to find my faves yet. Coming here during the pandemic has been wild. And in the last year, I’ve spent more time back home in Edmonton – so I’m definitely looking forward to some exploring. I can always count on the Horseshoe for a good time though.
What advice do you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
I’d say you need to have perseverance and a hard work ethic. Nothing is given freely in this industry and the more you learn about the business side, the better you’ll set yourself up to succeed. Be kind and authentic and you’ll go far.
Your message for our readers and your fans.
You are worthy of all of the amazing and wonderful things this world has to offer. Don’t listen to the haters. They just hatin’.
Your message for us at TorontoPages (TOPS)
Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with me. #grateful.
Website: http://www.nuelacharles.com
Twitter: @nuelacharles
Facebook: /nuelacharles
Instagram: @nuelacharles
