As she continues to work on a new yet-to-be-announced EP, singer-songwriter Nahima is offering a formal introduction to her blend of bedroom pop and R&B with the latest single, “me.” Born and raised in Los Angeles, Nahima has taken to releasing singles faithful to her personal experiences, remaining largely independent while following the guidance of frequent Rihanna producers Stargate. Aside from “Dumb Boy,” a soulful acoustic jam that remains her most well-known song, she’s best known for her songwriting done behind the scenes, working with everyone from PinkPantheress to Jason Derulo.
Although she started off making music firmly planted in the bedroom pop scene, her recent evolution has grown closer to contemporary R&B pioneered by artists like SZA and Jhené Aiko. “me” is the latest stage of Nahima’s progression, fluttering with lush instrumentation and softly sung lyrics that capture an artist at their most introspective.
The subtle plucking of strings and gentle guitar playing opens up Nahima’s world, where she looks back at her career thus far and all the things she “could’ve” done. While much of the song is a list of her regrets, “me” is anything but somber, instead seeking to provide solace like a sweet lullaby. Through the tranquil mood of the song, Nahima shows how often she bears her soul in her songwriting, not leaving any detail out and allowing herself to be open.
Embodying the same ethereal atmosphere of the song, the visuals for “me” feature greenery, butterflies, and flowers the same color as fruity pebbles. The decision to shoot many of Nahima’s scenes through mirrors and water reflections keeps the viewer at a distance from her as she gets personal in the lyrics. Like the song, the music video is an oasis that smartly contrasts the regrets and consoling Nahima tells herself.
Nahima’s still-growing body of work tracks a naturally developing style that started with her DIY beginnings on the 2019 EP Wasted Days. However, the intimacy of her lyrics and tender emotions are intact, making her smooth transition look less like an overnight change and more like an artist who grows closer to a distinct style. While still influenced by contemporaries and singers from the past, Nahima’s introspective musings are enough to keep her on a steady rise in well-deserved popularity.
Words: David Sosa
“me” by Nahima is out now on streaming services. For more on new music and potential shows, follow her on Instagram.
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