NURD

Blending confidence and vulnerability, NURD brings a sincere and soulful R&B that stands out for its emotional depth. Through her music, she explores identity, empowerment, and the freedom to express herself. In this conversation with FemaleRNB, she opens up about her world, her inspirations, and the path she’s carving within today’s R&B scene.

For those who will discover you through this interview, could you introduce yourself?

Yes. WASGOODIE?! It’s ya girl, NURD aka The Leimert Park Princess aka The Soulful Savage aka The Hoodbutterly aka Ms. Neo Soul if ya nasty aka GODBODY MO and I’m an R&B/ Neo soul singer/songwriter , actress and all around creative from Los Angeles Ca repping Leimert Park.

Your EP GODSPEED, released last May, marks a new visual and emotional chapter. Can you share how this project was born and what it represents for you?

GODSPEED is the beginning of a transformation . I started the idea of this EP 3 years ago and wanted it to be a symbol of my growing evolution and also me stepping into this new phase in my life . It was extremely hard but I feel like it was necessary. So this was act 1 , so definitely it’s a story.

How would you describe your musical evolution since your beginnings up to now?

My musical evolution is one of growth and trusting God’s gift for you . I’ve been singing since I was three years old. And sometimes in life, you don’t automatically step into the gift you learn along the way and music has always been that safe space through breakups , doubt , fear, music has helped me grow through.

R&B is at the core of your universe, but beyond the genre what other musical influences shape your work?

I love Gospel music, hip hop, neo soul music , Jazz music , house , dance hall , alternative rock. I grew up in a very musically diverse household. My grandmother did not allow rap music in the house. My aunt listened to soft rock and alternative rock . My mom loves Neosoul and rap . My friends had let me hear rap at their houses away from my family but I think all the musical influences have shaped me to just have fun with it.

You have mentioned Nina Simone, Erykah Badu, Jazmine Sullivan and SZA among your inspirations. How have these powerful voices shaped your style and artistic vision?

I think each of them I study for specific reasons . Nina the emotion behind her voice . It commands attention . Erykah for her smoothness . Jazmine Sullivan has so much power and soul. And SZA storytelling is out of this World.

Your universe is very intimate and introspective. How does your personal experience feed into your creative process?

My personal experiences literally are my foundation of who I am . They are the reason why NURD is NURD. Why every song feels so personal because I’ve literally experienced it first hand . And I feel that’s the best way I can build a connection with those who listen . I want them to feel like they know me . I’m their sister, their cousin, their best friend and I want them to feel like mine too.

As an independent artist, you create a lot by your own means. How do you manage to turn this autonomy into a true creative strength?

Just living my purpose. I think by doing so will always shine through . I knew my purpose at three years old . So stepping into that is part of the story. I think a lot of things have been trial and error, finding what my journey looks like.

Throughout your journey, what have been the biggest trials and errors that helped you grow artistically?

Trusting my intuition. Not second guessing my path. Knowing my idea will work . Knowing that authenticity is the name of the game. Knowing that it’s all slow but steady wins the race.

In the studio, how do you find the right balance between the instinct of the moment and the pursuit of perfect detail?

In this world one of the biggest lessons one must learn is balance. I think the perfectionist in me is learning that it’s not necessarily about precision but also about what feels natural to me. The uniqueness in my voice is what sets me apart and also blending different influences to make this one cohesive sound.

Visuals and aesthetics are always part of your work. How important is imagery in your artistic universe?

It’s a part of the story. I love movies. I love art. So I think it’s important to have different ways to. Reach people. I take time to make sure the details are across all boards . For example, with GODSPEED I made sure that the color RED was the primary theme because I wanted to invoke an emotion of alert , starkness and giving the attention that something is starting. I watch a lot of movies to get inspiration. As well as study art to see the full experience.

Which artists would you like to collaborate with in the future, and what draws you to these potential musical encounters?

So many but my dream is Brandy, SZA, Kendrick Lamar, Erykah Badu but also Sasha KEABLE and Chris Brown and Jazmine Sullivan. Of course Beyoncé lol

I love what they represent for their artistry . I love that each had a barrier and broke through the ceiling. They all ate in control of their narrative and their stories .

At FemaleRNB, we highlight female voices in RNB whether pioneers or from the new generation. Beyond the ones you have already cited as major influences, which other female RNB singers inspire you the most and why?

Brandy is the vocal bible so I’m constantly studying her . But as well Victoria Monet. Also artists from my city such as Jhene Aiko, Alex Isley, Leah Writes I think are incredible . I think the west coast is so dope because we are our own ecosystem, no part of LA is the same and that adds to the dope storytelling.

What are the next steps for you? Can we already expect new projects or more singles in the future?

The next step is back in the studio , working on a new ep, adding dimensions to the GODSPEED universe. I think it’s dope that it’s a little world of its own and it’s forming into a true image of my mind lol, so stay tuned!