Singer-songwriter Nali spoke with NYOTA about her song “Options,” music as a form of catharsis, and opening for Jordan Ward on tour.

Is singing something that interested you from a young age?

Singing was something that interested me from a young age. I had a Yamaha piano, and they had their own beats. I would make my own beats and songs. I had to be like 8.

Your songwriting comes from a deeply personal place. Is it cathartic for you to work on new music?

Yes, music is very cathartic for me! 

Last year, you released your debut album, I Love Nali. How did that project push you as an artist?

I think once it was released, I was able to pinpoint areas where I wanted to grow. New listeners that I got from the project inspired me to grow my audience.

Tell our readers about your song “Options.” It’s pretty bittersweet. What inspired the lyrics?

I was going through a breakup. It was definitely past the time, but I was still feeling it. Going through the motions of “damn, I gotta move on,” but then realizing I gotta grow without you and be better!   

How creatively involved were you when it came to the visuals for the project? 

I was pretty involved in the few visuals we had, haha, definitely excited to do more.

When you’re working on new material, where are you looking for creative inspiration? Do you have any specific places you like to go to, or any particular music you like to listen to?

I look for inspiration in life, really. I do things I’ve never done before, explore, and surround myself with different people to be inspired. I also read a lot!  

This year, you’re opening for Jordan Ward on tour. Which songs are you most excited to perform and see the audience sing along to?

I am very excited for “Crossfaded” and “Options”… those two the most honestly. Those are my favorites.

What advice do you have for aspiring musicians?

Always be ready to be vulnerable and honest in your music. Cause when you start lying, that’s when you have writer’s block. Be true! And everything that is made doesn’t have to be shared, but if you feel it needs to be, then you should!