The Tribune

By FARAH 

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

A FORMER beauty pageant queen is seeking to establish a professional career as a musician and hopes to become a force to be reckoned with, both locally and internationally.

Nevandria is a singer who many may know from her Youtube covers and live performances at venues around Nassau. 

This month, Nevandria will embark on several new projects with a number of Bahamian artists, including a regular performance at the Daily Grind.

Located on the Western Esplanade, the entertainment spot serves both locals and tourists with a unique experience. On Monday evenings there are featured live band performances for patrons to enjoy. 

Nevandria told Tribune Arts and Entertainment that while there is so much going on right now where her music is concerned, there is only little she can share about her latest projects. She said fans will have to follow her to keep up with what is going on.

“I am currently working on a few projects with some very talented and well-known Bahamian artists, unfortunately though I would not be able to let that cat out of the bag as yet. But it is definitely worth the wait and secrecy. I can, however, mention my personal live shows which are to kick off during the month of November at the Daily Grind. Speaking of live shows, I am also a part of a mega band called the JukeBox Live who are also to be looked out for in the coming year,” she told In Ya Ear. 

Nevandria has been singing and performing since her childhood years, but decided now is the time to pursue music at a professional level. “I have been performing since I was seven or eight years old, but I just decided to make it a career in 2012,” she said.

As to what motivates her and inspires her music, Nevandria said:

“I am inspired by just about everything. I am a very sensitive and emotional person, so anything from waking up to a beautiful day to being disappointed by someone or something can bring inspiration to my music. Lately, most of my inspiration has been coming from watching my peers step outside of the ‘norm’ to follow their dreams and accomplish goals many would say the Bahamas does not have the market for.”

Nevandria said she is passionate about spreading positivity, touching and changing lives through her music. 

“Whether that be by covers or original music, I just want listeners of just about every genre to enjoy and be touched by my music,” she told In Ya Ear. 

At the moment Nevandria has not released any original music, but she intends to build her repertoire in 2015. 

“In the past I have done a few gospel remixes/covers to popular songs that I performed at that time. However, they have never been compiled into a mixtape,” she said.

Nevandria said she influenced by artists such as India Arie, Rihanna, Erykah Badu, Beyoncé, Tessanne Chinn and Mali Music. Bahamian artists that have also influenced her include Chase Fernander, Wendi Lewis, Imana Foncesca, Rashad ‘Dash’ Davis, Cazna Hinds and Willis and the Illest. 

To keep up with Nevandria, follow her on Youtube, Instagram and Facebook at NevandriaLyriic.