Nyreisha, an R&B Singer, Seamlessly Transitions from Her Service in The US Armed Forces to Captivating the Hearts of The New Generation with Her Music and Poetic Lyrics, Creating A Hauntingly Beautiful Voice of Love. 

Former US Armed Forces member Nyreisha has transformed into a captivating R&B singer, spreading messages of love and hope through her music and poetic lyrics. 

Interview by Gina Sedman 

Nyreisha, a talented singer-songwriter and poet from San Diego, California, had her musical journey kickstarted by her uncle, who gave her a beat to work with. She took his advice to heart and went on to write and record her debut single, 'Vibe.' Fueled by love and motivation, she continued to create music, leading to her latest single, 'Wanna Umm' featuring Devvon Terrell. I had the pleasure of chatting with this bright and soft-spoken gem about her musical endeavors. Here's what she had to say.  

Hello Nyreisha, I am delighted to have the opportunity to speak with you today. Thank you, I'm super happy to be here.  

It is my pleasure. Nyreisha, where were you born, and where do you currently live? I am from San Diego, CA., and I currently live in Norfolk, VA. 

What initially prompted the move from San Diego, CA. to Norfolk, VA? I was in the military. 

Excellent news, Nyreisha! Before we proceed, I'd like to express my gratitude for your service in the US military. Thank you for your support. That means everything to me.  

No, thank you. It's my pleasure. Could you please share which branch you served in? Yes, the Navy. 

What attracted you to join the military? Well, I come from a military background. My entire family, including my mom, uncles, grandfather, aunt, and a few of my siblings, have served in the military. 

That's incredible! So, it's a family trait, but you decided to follow your passion for music instead. Before we discuss that, could you tell me about your upbringing? I spent my childhood in San Diego, from elementary school until I enlisted in the military. I considered myself an outgoing girl but didn't have many friends. Since I was a weird kid, I was always a bit of a loner. However, I've had the same best friend since 2008. I've always been passionate about reading, listening to music, and writing music. I also enjoy spending time outdoors, especially in the ocean - that's where you'll find me if you're looking for me. 

Awesome, do you surf? Honestly, the water in San Diego is nice for a quick dip, but after a few minutes, you start to lose feeling. It's good for a quick splash, but that's about it! (Laughs) 

I completely understand your perspective. Personally, I don't think I would enjoy that either. (Chuckles) In the music industry, it's fascinating to witness how many individuals start off in one direction and eventually transform into something completely different from their initial selves. Unfortunately, many of them take a turn for the worse. So, my question to you is, as someone relatively new to this industry, what values have you established for yourself? What are your non-negotiables, the principles you firmly believe in and are unwilling to compromise on, regardless of your success in this business? I just promised myself that I would stay true to who I am. It's all about the music and using my voice to inspire others. I want to keep inspiring those who have supported me so far because they believe in my music and what it represents, and I want to continue that. I also want to stick with the team that helped me get to where I am now because they are so beautiful and have supported me greatly. I am confident that everything will be fine as long as I keep it in mind. I am Nyreisha, and I'll be good. 

Yes, absolutely. I had a conversation with my husband about this business. I find it puzzling why someone can't simply have a beautiful voice and talent without any additional expectations, especially regarding women. Why can't an artist just sing, and that would be sufficient? There seems to be pressure on women to be overly sexualized regardless of their talent. Why can't they just sing? Why must music be associated with revealing clothing, sexual lyrics, and more? Talent should be allowed to shine on its own, and that's what I hope to see for young women in the industry. Yes.  

Let's discuss music, Nyreisha. What is it about music that initially captivates you? Although I come from a military background, I also have a musical background. Everyone in my family, including my mom, writes or sings. So, I have always grown up in a creative environment. Even my dad used to be in a rap group when he was younger. Being in that environment, it rubbed off on me. As I mentioned earlier, I was "the weird kid," so I spent a lot of time alone. Music was the one thing that made me feel like I had a place, though not really normal. I used to get bullied a lot, and music would take me out of that mindset of feeling like something was wrong with me or like I didn't belong there. With music, I felt like I belonged because I had a place. It was good for me to be in a space where I was creative. 

The funny thing is that I stopped getting bullied when people figured out that I could sing. It was almost like they were saying, "She's weird, but she's got something cool about her." Music changed a lot of negative things in my life and made them positive. Even from the smallest things of just having a bad feeling, a bad day, or just going through something traumatic, I had a song for it. And if there wasn't one, you better believe I was going to write about it. 

Great job! You managed to transform what the enemy intended for bad into something truly remarkable! Well done, Nyreisha! Now, I'm curious to know which musicians had a significant impact on you during your formative years. Additionally, what specific elements of their music inspire or resonate with you? For sure. Michael Jackson. I like to argue with my mom and say it's not Prince because that's her favorite. But, when it comes to both Michael Jackson and Prince, I love their stage presence, performance, and consistency. Those are two artists who never really let go of who they were. They showed up as they were, and they continued to be that throughout their lifetime, of course, with growth.  

Shanice Wilson is another one of my favorites. Although she was petite, she was a powerhouse. I would look at her and say, 'I like, I can do that! That's me!' I listened to The Temptations, The O'Jays, and just a lot of music that was ahead of my years. They made me want to take the cool stuff that they did and evolve it. And then I have my own personal favorites of my generation. 

Indeed. It's fascinating how the music industry has evolved over the years. Back in my day, only a select few artists were given airtime on the radio. However, with the rise of independent music, people now have the freedom to stream music through Bluetooth at their convenience. This accessibility allows everyone to explore different genres and artists, catering to individual preferences. It's a remarkable shift from the past when listeners were limited to mainstream music. I'm intrigued to discover more about this. By the way, your voice is truly captivating. 

I find it intriguing that you have a background in poetry. I share your love for poetry, particularly the works of Maya Angelou and other renowned poets. Please share the name of one of your poetry pieces with me and elaborate on the inspiration behind them. Yes, I once wrote a poem for which I didn't have a title. So, I think it should be called "Untitled." The poem mainly talks about how people judge others based on their appearance.   

As someone who loves love, I feel that it's not the same as it used to be. I don't necessarily mean that negatively, but it has changed over time. Things are faster-paced now. People don't ask for traditional dates or show up with flowers or gifts. I love cute and simple things like milkshake dates and roller skating, but today, all people care about is jumping into bed. They are not interested in taking the time to get to know each other. It's ironic because love is supposed to be personal, but it's become impersonal. That's what my poem is about.   

I want someone to know me inside and out, just as much as I want to know them. But, some people are afraid of getting too deep. They say, "That's too much." 

Yes, indeed. Moreover, I believe there is a significant responsibility that falls upon us as women. We must establish the boundaries of what we will tolerate. If we desire to be treated in a certain manner, we must ensure that we carry ourselves in a way that commands respect. As women, when we do this, it becomes impossible for a man to exceed the limits we set. By clearly communicating how we wish to be treated, we educate others on how to treat us. I strongly believe that if women were to unite and collectively declare, "Enough is enough," we could put an end to such behavior. Personally, I am a strong advocate for reserving sex for marriage and abstaining from it outside of marriage. I believe that God's instructions on this matter serve a purpose, and it is the best way to approach it. When we deviate from God's word and principles, that's when chaos ensues. Yeah. It is crucial to understand how you desire to be loved. Many individuals are unaware of their preferences due to the current perception of love. Regrettably, in today's world, the small, adorable aspects are often overlooked. Personally, I aspire to reach the age of 80, with wrinkles and grey hair, while continuing to go on dates. I long to spend the rest of my life with the love of my life, gazing into their eyes even when we are old, and our skin is marked with age. 

Thank you for sharing that. So, Nyreisha, can you tell me about your songwriting process? Usually, when I listen to a beat, the song just flows out naturally. The beat always guides me in what the song should be about.  

Lately, though, I've been trying something new by writing the lyrics before even hearing the beat. This allows me to be more creative because I have all these words ready to match with the perfect beat when I find it. It also removes the pressure of having a set structure in mind. I might write a song one way, but later on, when I hear a different beat, I realize it could be something completely different: same lyrics, same song, but a whole new vibe. 

Nyreisha, how does your writing style differ from current musical trends? I find my inspiration in love, be it the absence of it, memories of past love, yearning for love, or the excitement of new love. All of my songs revolve around this theme, and I have no qualms about confessing it. My lyrics delve into the world of relationships, whether I'm deeply in love or nursing a broken heart - whatever it is, it will come through in my music. 

Love is a truly magnificent topic. It possesses the power to heal, forgive, and show kindness, making it the ultimate source of goodness. Since God is love, He urges us to love one another, which is truly remarkable. Nyreisha, this is truly beautiful. Additionally, I firmly believe that protection is an integral part of love. As women, it is our responsibility to serve as positive role models for younger women, guiding and inspiring them. As a female artist, what do you perceive your role to be in shaping and motivating this younger generation of women? You can always remember that it truly doesn't matter where you began. You might be the quirky girl who gets teased by everyone but stay authentic to who you are. Even if you feel like you don't belong, maybe you don't, but you do have a place. Last but not least, I would like to say that music needs to be brought back to its roots of "love." (Laughs) 

Yeah, let's bring back the love, absolutely, Nyreisha! Let's talk about your song. You had a song called “Vibe.” Yes. 

Can you tell me the story behind that song? "Vibe” was the very first song I ever wrote. One of my uncles allowed me to use the beat because he saw that I had a knack for writing and singing. He wanted me to work on perfecting it and hone my writing skills. 

So, I wrote the song "Vibe" with no particular structure. It starts with a verse and then jumps into the chorus. There's no bridge section included in the song. Overall, the song is a bit all over the place, but it has one consistent message. It's all about having a "crush" on someone simply because they're so cute. It captures the excitement of seeing someone's name appear in a text message and gushing before opening it. 

It’s kind of like the female version of Tevin Campbell’s “Can We Talk.” Yes. It's hilarious because I mention how we both enjoy the same drinks in the second verse. It's like, we make such a cute pair and are meant to be together. (Laughs) 

Fantastic! I truly miss the era of pure, innocent love. As women, it is our responsibility to uphold our self-respect and showcase it to the men we choose to date. Our attire, speech, demeanor, moral principles, and steadfastness will revolutionize the dating scene. The transformation begins with us. In today's society, I feel that too much is exposed and given away freely without a commitment to marriage. I am traditional in my beliefs. I think the correct and ethical course of action is to marry when you find "the one." 

Nowadays, not many individuals share this viewpoint. Many prefer to casually date and move in together without truly understanding their partner. Eventually, they realize that it was not love but merely physical attraction, which is insufficient for a lasting, loving marriage. Therefore, let's restore the innocence of dating and the noble intentions behind it. Let's honor God with our bodies and wait for marriage. Let's invest time in getting to know each other thoroughly, asking tough questions while enjoying each other's company and sipping milkshakes. Dating is about gathering information. This is the moment to gather as much data as possible before it's too late. Thank you for sharing the background of your song "Vibe." Now, Nyreisha, I am eager to discuss your new music. Before I proceed, I have noticed that many singers also venture into film, television, and theater. Do you envision yourself pursuing these avenues in the future? During my childhood, my mother attempted to involve me in small commercials and similar projects. However, it was more of a collaborative effort, meaning that if my sister wasn't interested, neither of us pursued it. Consequently, we didn't pursue it extensively. Nevertheless, many individuals I interact with today frequently inquire why I haven't started my own TV show or podcast. They say, "I'm a character." (laughs) 

Would you consider participating in a film or television series if given the chance? Definitely! Engaging in any form of creativity is incredibly enjoyable. Now, I'm focused on learning to play the guitar, but I also have plans to master the drums and keyboard in the future. 

Before reaching the level of fame comparable to an iconic public figure, what message do you wish to convey to your fans? Share your authentic self with the world. I want everyone to understand that I'm simply being authentic, you know? I'm that girl from San Diego who always had aspirations of becoming a singer but was too shy to showcase my talent in front of others. However, one day, my bravery prevailed, and I leaped forward. It's truly amazing how love consistently remains the foundation of my life. It revolves around the individuals I grew up with, my cherished friends, and, naturally, my family. Love is the essence of what truly counts for me. 

Ok Nyreisha, let's talk about your new single, “Wanna Umm.” And can you tell me the message that you're trying to convey through that particular song as well? Yes, of course. "Wanna Umm" is a love song. It's about a past relationship that didn't quite work out, but I still have strong feelings for the person. We're giving it another shot, taking a chance on love. The song is all about that feeling of wanting to go back to someone, even though it's a bit scary. It's about being so captivated by someone that you can't even speak properly. That's why I decided to call it "Wanna Umm." 

Is there any live instrumentation in the song? Additionally, who produced it, and where was it recorded? Aaydot, the producer behind this incredible track, has truly created something magical with his beats. The moment I heard it, I was captivated and couldn't help but wonder about the mastermind behind it. My curiosity grew into an obsession as I delved into the world of Devon Terrell, exploring every song he has ever created and every project he has been a part of. I made it my mission to discover and listen to everything he had released.  

One day, I decided to visit the former Twitter platform and asked a question, "Hey, how many retweets do I need for you to collaborate on a song with me?" Although I had a glimmer of hope for a response, I didn't anticipate receiving one. Surprisingly, he replied, stating that I would need around 1000 retweets. At that time, I only had ten followers, but I thought to myself, "Alright, I can achieve that."  

During my time serving in the Navy, I was constantly on the move, reaching out to everyone I knew, and even some strangers, in my quest to expand my followers. On Snapchat, I would eagerly ask, "Hey, could you do me a favor and retweet this for me, please?" Surprisingly, he stumbled upon it before I did, and I received a tweet that read, "I'm so proud of you." Confused, I decided to check my social media accounts, only to discover that I had amassed over 1000 retweets. It was an incredible feeling! 

My goodness, that story was amazing! Incredible! You know, the industry has certainly evolved, and I truly appreciate you offering me a fresh point of view. Many of the artists I interact with are from my own generation, so it's intriguing to hear a different perspective. Understanding what's going on in today's business world is truly fascinating. Bravo to you! By the way, where can fans find your latest single? 

My latest single is now available on all streaming platforms, and the best part is that it's the remix version with Devon Terrell. There's also a music video version where it's just me. You can check out the music video on YouTube.  

To purchase the single, it's available on all digital platforms, including Apple Music. Stay updated on my career and upcoming music by following me on Instagram. Exciting things are on the horizon! 

I understand that there has been a resurgence of interest in vinyl among younger generations. Have you considered the possibility of releasing a vinyl album in the future? That would be absolutely amazing! Yes! 

Finally, what kind of motivational advice do you have for young girls starting in the industry? What words of wisdom would you share with them? Always stay true to yourself, no matter what. No matter where life takes you, there will always be individuals who will try to mold you into someone else. They may encourage you to embrace your uniqueness, but at the same time, push you to conform to their expectations. Stay grounded in who you are. You have achieved everything you have by being authentic. Remember, your journey is unique, and no one else can fulfill your role. Trying to be someone else won't take you much further, as there is already someone else fulfilling that role. Stay true to yourself and continue on your own path.  

Nyreisha, thank you. I just want to express my heartfelt gratitude to you for spending your valuable time with me. Thank you for sharing your creative journey and life with me. I pray that God blesses the works of your hands, and may it be in accordance with His will for your life. I also pray that the Lord keeps you safe on your journey and blesses your family as well. I am proud of your ambition to pursue your God-given talent fearlessly, and I pray you continue to stay on that path.    

As an experienced individual, I have a small piece of advice to share. It's crucial to remember that young women require role models and examples to look up to. I genuinely believe that you have the potential to be that person for them. However, it is of utmost importance that you never compromise your morals or faith in God, regardless of the allure of fame or fortune. Trust me, it's just not worth it in the long run. Keep moving forward with a clear mind and a determined purpose. Our young ladies are in desperate need of positive role models, especially in today's music industry. As you mentioned earlier, love is your driving force, so let that love guide your path and influence how you present yourself to the younger generation who admire you. God bless you, my dear. It's an honor to know you. Thank you. It is a pleasure to be here with you, and I thank you for having me.   

You're welcome, Nyreisha. Always keep your eyes on the Lord and never lose sight of Him. God bless you, dear. Take care and have a wonderful rest of your day. 

End of Interview

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Photos of Nyreisa by Aray Photography