Coast Press

Trevor Smith

We are here to learn about the world, and to show you something new.

Episodes

  1. Aug 9

    Unlocking Afro-Soul, Songwriting, and Nairobi’s Live Music Scene with Nuru

    In this episode, host Trevor Smith sits down with Kenyan singer-songwriter Nuru for an inside look at her musical journey, creative philosophy, and the vibrant culture driving African music today. Nuru shares the story behind her release Safe, her latest EP Flower in Bloom, and why she prioritizes writing from the subconscious to maintain authenticity. We also dive into what it’s like working alongside her husband as her producer, balancing motherhood with pursuing a UK songwriting degree online, the global rise of Afrobeats, and why Nairobi—the "city under the sun"—is one of the world's most dynamic hubs for live music. What You’ll Hear in This Episode:Climate & Culture: Living on the equator in Nairobi and how Kenya’s climate shapes everyday life. Creative Process & Authenticity: Writing from the subconscious and crafting her album Safe. Studio Synergy: Collaborating with her producer-husband and his go-to DAWs (Logic, Ableton, FL Studio). The Global Rise of African Music: From trailblazers like Miriam Makeba to modern icons like Burna Boy and Tyla. Flower in Bloom EP: Exploring melody, lyricism, and the softer side of Afro-Soul. Diverse Influences: How Country songwriting, Swahili, and Western pop (Beyoncé, Taylor Swift) shaped her sound. US Expansion & Independent Mindset: Navigating international markets with contentment and purpose. Motherhood & Music: Evolving as an artist after having children and pursuing a remote degree during pregnancy. Visiting Nairobi: The 42 tribes of Kenya, local food, and why you must experience Nairobi's live music scene. Artist Recommendation: Why Nuru wants you to check out Kenyan artist Bien. Notable Quotes:"I write from my subconscious... sometimes I will not realize what I was going through until later when I'm listening back. Authenticity is my top priority." — Nuru "With 42 tribes in Kenya, it’s impossible to box our musicians into one genre. That richness is what makes Nairobi so beautiful." — Nuru Featured in This Episode:Guest: Nuru (Safe, Flower in Bloom) Host: Trevor Smith Mentioned Artists: Bien, Miriam Makeba, Daudi Kabaka, Papa Wemba, Burna Boy, Tyla

About

We are here to learn about the world, and to show you something new.