Hailing from North London is sensational new artist Sami Nathan. The natural singer-songwriter showcases emotional depth with her latest release “Beautiful Outside”. Influenced by Elton John and Stevie Wonder, Nathan’s powerhouse vocals blend with beautiful melodies for a timeless approach to a classic sound.

Legend and icon Chaka Khan is also a fan, showering her with praise on Instagram after delivering a blistering cover of her song “Tell Me Something Good”.

We caught up with the star talking inspirations, new music and what’s next

When did you first realise you wanted to make music?
I started writing on the piano when I was about 13. I honestly don’t remember a time when I did anything else. That’s probably a typical answer but it’s true, it wasn’t presented as an option at school though. I remember being laughed at by teachers on careers day saying this is what I wanted to do, so I guess I already knew then.

Who did you grow up listening to?
My mum had a record player and I remember a lot of big band music, Frank Sinatra, James Brown, Nat King Cole. My first ever CD was Eternal, “I Wanna Be The Only One”. My teenage years were filled with anything with a big old soul vocal and lots of Christina Aguilera!

Who are your biggest influences?
I’m equally passionate about writing as I am singing, so I kind of split this answer into two. Writing-wise I love a classic song – Stevie Wonder, Elton John, The Beatles. With singers again it’s all about a powerhouse voice for me – Whitney, Mariah, Celine, Janis Joplin, Jazmine Sullivan. Give me the vocals!

How did growing up in North London influence your music?
So many great musicians have come out of North London, both past and present such as George Michael, The Libertines, Amy Winehouse, Adele and Skepta. I grew up listening to an eclectic mix of music which led me to create my dynamic sound.

Your song “Beautiful Outside” showcases raw emotion and talent, what was the inspiration behind this song?
Thank you! It really is a special song to me and has been one of my favourites for a while now. It really is a song about hope and strength, that even in the deepest pain there is something worth living for. I sing from my heart and I’m glad that comes across!

What is your songwriting process like?
I have written songs in all sorts of scenarios, whether that be alone or in the studio with one producer or a writing camp with many. At first that made me really flexible and quick with my writing and taught me a lot. I always start with a melody, often the first thing I come up with, if I manage to catch it on a voice note, ends up being close. Some songs fall out and sometimes it is hard work, there is a huge piece of myself in these songs.

Who would you love to collaborate with?
I would absolutely love to do a song with Mark Ronson, Labrinth, Sia, Lady Gaga. This side of the pond, Jacob Banks and Sasha Keable – that would be sick.

What’s next for you/ what are you excited about?
I’m excited about getting out of the house! I want to frolic with the general public amongst the wildlife outside please, it’s beautiful out there. I have a new lease of life after sitting on my bum. I can’t wait to gig. I had planned to do a live studio album for my launch party so once lockdown is over I can’t wait to crack on with it.