Nathalie Miranda: The UK's Daring Musical Trailblazer

 

London's very own Nathalie Miranda is a musical force to be reckoned with. With a collection of over six genre-defying singles, this dynamic pop star brings an extraordinary blend of soul, blues, and classic rock to the forefront of high-energy retro pop. Her performances are nothing short of electrifying; Nathalie not only showcases a stellar octave range but also performs with a passion that is both raw and captivating, ensuring she leaves everything on the stage.

Miranda draws inspiration from a rich tapestry of musical legends including Freddie Mercury, Prince, Madonna, Tina Turner, Christina Aguilera, and Whitney Houston. These influences, combined with the musical heritage of her Greek-Cypriot roots, infuse her sound with powerful belts and playful lyrics, making her distinctive style even more captivating.

2023 marks a significant year in Nathalie's ascending career, with her smash hits ‘Catch-22’ and ‘Soul on Fire’ amassing 250,000 Spotify streams each and over 200,000 YouTube views combined. Her shimmering vocals and unique artistry have established her as the UK's formidable response to the US's iconic divas. Nathalie's talents have been recognized in high-profile features including Wonderland Magazine and Rolling Stone India. Her live performances boast appearances on BBC’s ‘Later… with Jools Holland’ as a backing vocalist and gigs at iconic London venues like The Troubadour.

Born in London to Greek-Cypriot parents, Nathalie is a fluent Greek speaker and takes immense pride in her heritage, which she skillfully weaves into her music. Her 2022 single ‘????a S?µ?d?a (1000 Scars)’ is a testament to this, embracing a classic Greek folk rhythm called Zeibekiko, and produced by renowned Greek producer Harry K.

Beyond her solo career, Nathalie Miranda has been a prolific figure in the dance and house music scene since 2017, lending her 90s diva vocals to collaborations with international producers. Her versatile artistry defies creative boundaries, showcasing her ability to innovate and adapt across genres. Her early classical piano studies laid the groundwork for her songwriting prowess, a skill further unlocked by an impromptu hotel karaoke performance during a family holiday.

Nathalie Miranda's sound is continually evolving, brimming with passion, heart, and the spirit of her Greek-Cypriot roots. As she continues to captivate audiences with her powerhouse performances and innovative music, Nathalie Miranda is a name to watch in the music industry. Follow her journey for updates and new music that promises to inspire and electrify.

Miranda's tribute to the 1980s, "Is This Love," showcases her passion for the era, known for corded telephones and a social life that didn't rely on computers. The song, initially penned in 2015 and later reworked for its release, captures the essence of being young and carefree. The music video, which was shot partly in Miranda's bedroom transformed into an '80s dream and at Ballie Ballerson's in London, radiates fun, love, happiness, and nostalgia. She credits her team, including co-writer/producer Simon Cookson and director/video editor David Brant, for bringing her vision to life​​.

Additionally, Nathalie Miranda collaborated with Will-Powerz on the track "Good Day," a project that came to fruition after Will-Powerz was captivated by her soulful voice in live performance videos on YouTube. The song speaks to the hope of living life freely and coming together, with Miranda lending her voice to express these sentiments. This collaboration further solidifies her standing in the North London music scene, where she continues to perform and release solo songs​​.

Interview Summary

Nathalie Miranda, an independent artist with a diverse musical influence, has announced plans to release two to three singles with a 70s, groovy feel for the rest of the year. She finds motivation in her passion for music and the support of her small but dedicated fanbase, despite the pressures of social media and the evolving music industry. Miranda enjoys experimenting across genres, reflecting her varied inspirations, including 70s rock, and evolving her image alongside her sound.

Her hits 'Catch-22' and 'Soul on Fire' were created under different circumstances: 'Catch-22' during lockdown, connecting deeply with fans, and 'Soul on Fire' in collaboration with dance producer Babert, showcasing her versatility. Influenced by iconic artists like Prince and Freddie Mercury, Miranda's music is also shaped by her Greek-Cypriot roots, especially evident in songs like ‘Χίλια Σημάδια (1000 Scars)’.

Collaborating with international producers on dance and house tracks has been rewarding, offering her opportunities to contribute her unique flair. Miranda's vocal talents were discovered at a hotel karaoke night, marking the start of her journey in music. She discusses the double-edged sword of the digital age for musicians, recognizing the benefits of social media for independent artists while lamenting the loss of mystique and the pressure to generate content over music.

Miranda openly addresses ageism in the industry, advocating for perseverance and authenticity regardless of age. She considers her performance with the band 'James' on 'Later with Jools' as a significant career milestone and highlights her classical piano background as foundational to her songwriting and musical understanding. Miranda emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and being authentic in navigating the music industry's challenges and opportunities.

Interview with Nathalie Miranda

 

Can you tell us about any upcoming releases you have planned for the near future?

 

I have two to three singles planned for the rest of the year. I just released a cover track a few weeks ago, but ultimately, I prefer releasing my own music. The new tracks will have more of a 70s, groovy feel to them.

 

What inspires you to keep creating music, and how do you stay motivated in this ever-evolving industry?

 

You know, I think that it’s harder than ever these days to stay motivated. There is so much pressure coming from every direction, particularly with regard to social media, and I feel that it can detract from the art of actually making music. Personally, I use that determination within me to prove a whole bunch of people wrong haha! No, but really, I love making music and I’m lucky enough to have a small but incredibly supportive fanbase that keeps me motivated to be the best artist I can be, for myself and for them.

 

With a career that spans various genres, how do you decide on the direction for your new music?

 

Well, thank you for noticing! I love music, and I’m inspired by so many genres and styles. As an independent artist, I have the privilege of being 100% in control of my output, image etc, and so I’m taking advantage of this by experimenting with all the genres that have inspired me. For example, my song ‘Battle Scars’ was inspired by 70s rock, but I’m by no means a rock vocalist; I just wanted to pay tribute to those sounds and artists, and have some fun with it.

I enjoy evolving my image along with the sound also.

 

Reflecting on your hits 'Catch-22' and 'Soul on Fire,' what was the creative process behind these tracks?

 

‘Catch-22’ was written, recorded and released during lockdown, and it’s the song that really connected me with the majority of my fans. The lyrics came to me while I was watching TV and I had to stop everything to go and write it. I wanted to create a dramatic, almost theatrical song, and I think we did a great job with that. It’s still one of my most requested songs.

 

‘Soul on Fire’ is I think my most streamed release, but it wasn’t my release, actually. Babert, a dance producer who I’ve worked with a lot asked me to change the lyrics to this track he wanted to rework, and sing the vocals. It ended up being ‘Soul on Fire’. It was fun to record and get my dance diva on, but honestly I haven’t sung it since!

 

You've been influenced by iconic artists across several genres. How do these influences shape your music today?

They have a huge influence on my music. I never went to stage school or anything like that and I didn’t even have a singing lesson until I was in my late teens, so I mostly learnt everything I know by listening to my favourite artists and trying to emulate them. I love an artist who gives their all, shows passion, and isn’t afraid to take risks, like Prince, Freddie Mercury, Madonna, Christina Aguilera and so on. So yes, that’s definitely percolated down into my music.

 

Can you share more about how your Greek-Cypriot roots influence your music, especially in songs like ‘Χίλια Σημάδια (1000 Scars)’?

 

I’m incredibly proud to be Greek Cypriot. Greek was the first language I ever spoke. I grew up listening to Greek music, which is all about passion and heartbreak mostly. Greek singers really know how to convey their emotions, and it has most definitely influenced the way I perform.

 ‘Χίλια Σημάδια’ was a project I wanted to do for so many years, and I finally released it in 2022. It’s a song about revenge, heartbreak, and a woman scorned. And even if you don’t speak Greek, you can feel what I’m feeling. I hope to record more songs in Greek soon.

 

 

Working with international producers on dance and house tracks, what do you find most rewarding about these collaborations?

 

It’s been very beneficial to me as a singer and songwriter to work on so many dance tracks. It’s not my favourite genre if I’m being honest, but the songs are really easy to write, and with each track, I bring something different to the table. I’ve been lucky enough to work with some lovely producers over the years, some of whom have returned to me many times for further work.

 

Your vocal talents were discovered during a hotel karaoke night. Can you tell us more about that experience and how it impacted your career?

 

Ah, yes, the karaoke night. I was a very shy kid, and not even my parents knew that I could sing. We were on holiday that year in Cyprus, and I just had this feeling that if I don’t perform now, in this moment, I will never do so. I asked my mum to get up and perform before me, to which she replied ‘are you mad?’ haha. But, she got up and performed a song, which encouraged me to get up and perform ‘Hopelessly Devoted To You’ from Grease.

 

I sang with my back to the audience as I was terrified. But I finished the song and everyone got to their feet! I couldn’t believe it. That was the moment I knew that I could do it. And I haven’t stopped since then.

 

As an artist with a significant digital presence, what are your views on the pros and cons of the digital age for musicians?

 

You know, I grew up in a time when there was no internet. I listened to all my music on the radio, cassettes, CDs. And honestly, I miss that anticipation of having to wait to go buy the single or album once it comes out. I feel that, although social media and the digital age have brought their benefits, the mystique of the artists we love has now gone. Everything we want is at our fingertips. A song comes out, we press play on our phones and it’s there. We can watch and listen to everything on demand. I’m not a fan of that, to be honest.

 

Social media has been amazing for me as an independent, unknown artist. I’ve been able to connect with people internationally without leaving my house. And I’m very grateful for that. However, I think that the pressure and focus is now on social media and making ‘content’ rather than actually making music and being an artist. And I don’t feel comfortable with that.  I’ve created my own way of using socials so that I don’t get too overwhelmed, but at the same time, I’m interacting with my fans and maintaining that connection.

 

Ageism is a topic of concern in the music industry. Have you encountered ageism, and how do you navigate these challenges?

 

Ageism is still a huge concern, particularly for women in the industry. I talk very openly about my age, and I’m not ashamed to say that I’m 40. I want younger artists, especially female artists, to know that sometimes it doesn’t work out the way you planned when you were 18. Sometimes, you end up working way longer than you thought you might before anyone takes notice, and you know what, that is ok. Personally, I think I’m the best artist I’ve ever been. At 20, I didn’t really know myself, I didn’t know who I was as an artist. And now, yes, I’m older but I’m more experienced and I’m not prepared to put up with any nonsense from anyone in the industry.

 

I think it’s amazing that Kylie Minogue is still out there killing it at age 55, and yet certain major radio stations refused to play her music because of her age! I’ve never heard anything so ridiculous! Kylie is an icon, and someone whose music I listen to a lot. She is very underrated as an artist. I hope she wins that Grammy!

 

I have faced ageism indirectly, I believe. I think because I talk so openly about my age, some venues, or producers etc, may decide privately not to work with me because I am past it. That’s just my opinion. But that’s fine, you know, I don’t want to be associated with people like that anyway.

 

You’ve performed on iconic stages and been featured in major publications. What do you consider your biggest career milestone so far?

 

I think it has to be performing backing vocals for the band ‘James’ on the BBC show ‘Later with Jools’. It was a great learning experience being on live TV, and performing songs I didn’t really know until that day. And it served as motivation for me to work hard and one day be on that show performing my own music.

 

How do you balance the desire to pay homage to your musical influences with the need to create a unique and distinctive sound?

 

Interesting question. I think that my voice is distinctive, so whatever genre I decide to sing, it somehow becomes my own because I have something different going on. That is a good and a bad thing, because the rejection I’ve faced far outweighs the opportunities. But I make it very clear that if I can’t be authentic, then there really is no point.

 

In terms of songwriting, how has your classical piano background influenced your approach to composing music?

 

I think it’s given me the foundations to be able to write music, for sure. I’m very good at hearing harmonies, for example, and I think a lot of that comes from the ear training I had to do as part of my classical piano studies. So thank you, Mum, for making me go to piano lessons!

 

The digital age has transformed how artists interact with their audiences. How do you use digital platforms to connect with your fans?

 

I do my best to reply to every comment, message and so on. Sometimes, it is overwhelming and I need to take a few days off, but it’s really important to me that my fans know how much I appreciate their support. I am incredibly grateful to them.

 

Facing the challenges and opportunities of the music industry, what advice would you give to aspiring artists looking to carve their path?

I would say quite simply, be yourself. No matter what people say, stay true to your vision and keep focused on your dreams.

Socials

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Lyric Review of Echoes by Nathalie Miranda

The lyrics narrate a deeply emotional and evocative story of growth, pain, and self-discovery. They speak to the universal experience of transitioning from the innocence of childhood to the complexities of adulthood, highlighting the often painful process of coming to terms with one's identity and the challenges life presents.

The recurring imagery of "bullets" and a "safe little world" symbolizes the harsh realities and trials one faces growing up, suggesting a loss of innocence and the harsh impact of life's challenges. The metaphor of a "page that can’t be turned" and a voice that was "never heard" poignantly expresses feelings of stagnation and silence, reflecting a struggle with self-worth and expression.

Central to the song is the transformational journey towards self-acceptance and resilience. The mirror serves as a powerful symbol of self-reflection and the quest for identity, emphasizing the dissonance between how one perceives oneself and how one wishes to be seen. The assurance "I will be there in the mirror with you" conveys a message of support and solidarity, promising presence and understanding in times of self-doubt and isolation.

The closing lines signal a shift towards empowerment and liberation, marking a significant turning point in the narrator's journey. The declaration "I am older, I am grown, I am free" signifies a reclaiming of agency and a newfound sense of freedom, suggesting that the experiences and challenges faced have culminated in a stronger, more self-assured individual.

Overall, the lyrics are a poignant exploration of the struggles and triumphs of growing up, offering a message of hope and resilience. They touch on the importance of self-acceptance, the value of personal growth, and the power of standing by oneself through life's challenges.

 

Fictional Story Based on the Lyrics

Reflections of Resilience: A Journey Through the Mirror

Created by Indie Mastered

Copyright 2024 Nathalie Miranda

In a quiet town painted with the pastel hues of yesteryears, there lived a girl whose life was as unremarkable as the faded wallpaper adorning her childhood bedroom. She was young, just a child, navigating the labyrinth of growing up with only her shadows for company. No one had prepared her for the trials ahead, for the pain that growing up would bring, tearing through her safe little world like a storm unbidden.

She couldn't grasp why life, with its capricious whims, hurled challenges like a relentless barrage, leaving her to seek refuge in the crevices of her fractured dreams. It felt as if the world moved on, leaving her behind, like a page in a book that refused to turn, her voice lost in the cacophony of the unheard.

With each passing day, she faced the mirror, a ritual in search of answers. But the reflection that stared back wore a mask of unfamiliarity, the pieces of her identity scattered like a puzzle unsolved. In her solitude, she whispered vows into the void, promises to the reflection that she yearned to recognize once more.

As time wove its intricate tapestry, the girl found herself caught between the chimeras of her dreams and the stark reality of expectations. She chose to retreat, a shadow amongst shadows, her tears the silent testament to the parts of her that faded into oblivion. Yet, in the depths of despair, the echoes of her resolve lingered, a memory that refused to be extinguished.

In the darkest hours, when hope seemed but a distant flicker, a voice emerged, soft yet unyielding. It spoke of solidarity, of a presence unwavering, a promise to stand by her side, to be the companion in the mirror when the world turned its back. "For everything I couldn't do," the voice vowed, "I will be there, in the mirror with you."

Years tumbled like the leaves of autumn, and the girl, no longer a child, found strength in her reflection. The shards of her identity, once scattered, began to align, painting a portrait of resilience and freedom. She realized that the journey through the mirror was not one of solitude but of discovery, a path leading her to embrace the myriad facets of her being.

She emerged, not as the girl she once was, but as a beacon of self-assurance, her voice now a melody that resonated with the strength of her spirit. "I am older, I am grown, I am free," she declared, her reflection a testament to her journey from the shadows into the light.

And so, the story unfolds, a narrative woven from the threads of pain, growth, and redemption. It's a tale that speaks to the heart of every soul who has faced the mirror, searching for the pieces of themselves, only to discover that within them lies the power to shape their destiny, to be the architect of their freedom.