Introducing Atlanta's brightest new Queer music maker, Naomi.

Arts

Nov 20

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Naomi.’s rise will be swift: that much is obvious with the cohesion and catchiness of her first single, “babe”. Rarely does a debut have such sparkling assuredness, but Naomi. knows exactly what she wants and what she is trying to accomplish. Thus the execution that appears effortless yet sashays in intentional cat-like charm, Naomi.’s “babe” stands as a sultry (and an incredibly solid) premiere that will leave the listener craving more.

Working closely with producer Jackson Matayo, “babe” is a demure number that holds its cards close, yet designed to seduce, hooks with rhythmic downbeats perfect for a first from this pan newcomer with Grace Jones-esqe energy and the cool sass to match. Naomi.’s knack for undoubtable disco-meets-‘90s dancefloor flare welcomes a warm layer of repetition that weaves into a hypnotic crescendo.

A long way off from her beginnings, “babe” may have some serious sexual energy but Naomi.’s original foundation was that of prim tradition. “I grew up performing in my childhood church band and sang in choir all throughout school. I really think that being surrounded by musicians and artists growing up helped me discover my passion for music,” the singer explains. “Although I've gotten older and developed my own beliefs and ideals on music, religion and spirituality, I'm grateful to have had those experiences.”

Naomi. has resided in ATL since 2017, moving from Port Saint Lucie, FL in pursuit of music school where she majored in Music and Technology with a focus on vocals. Opening her mind to preparation of her own creative path, “All of my instructors were people who either made money playing music, or have had a really successful career in the industry, and it was honestly inspiring being in their presence,” Naomi. shares. “I learned about how to become a better performer and artist, and I learned so much about the industry.”

Her songwriting process typically sparks from a small concept, “whether it's a simple melody or just a phrase that gets stuck in my head, I'll start there and then work with my producer on fleshing out the idea”. An avid listener of lofi hip-hop, which beyond enjoyment aids in entering a relaxed creative space, Naomi. draws from many wells of inspiration and appreciation. However, one genre has been particularly magnetic as of late.

“I love Kpop because there is so much thought that goes into every single detail of each song, performance, outfit, etc. Sonically, Kpop music is very different from mainstream pop in the US and I adore how creative the songs are, so that really motivates me to create something unique as well,” she says. “I also take a lot of inspiration from Melanie Martinez. I think she's a genius and she has a way of making her concepts come to life.” Hoping to incorporate sickening stage costumes and visuals into future live performances, Naomi. soaks up both the morphed imagination of current pop but also the artistry in heartfelt expressions, mentioning a love of Lorde and Banks as lyrical artists (“I think their vulnerability is beautiful and emotionally provoking”). The timeless style of “babe”, however, crosses more than the generational foothold of the pop reincarnations of the recent decade.

Underneath all of Naomi.’s sarcasm and wit, she is a huge softie for the people she loves, quite the classic quality for a Cancer. At home she hangs with her Siamese cat, Paris, and aligns with her own creative energies, as underpaintings form in her mind of the lush luxuries of musical pursuits to come. Her bold presence outwardly is met with a private and rich inner world, an aspect we can pick up on in “babe”. The single’s power is intimate yet celebratory, and as a first glimpse into the Naomi. Universe, we have no doubts this artist will bring much more of this balance and precision into her future releases.

Follow Naomi. on Instagram and Soundcloud for future updates and content.

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Sunni Johnson is the Arts Editor of WUSSY and a writer, zinester, and musician based in Atlanta, GA.

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