Stockholm’s own NAVII has recently released his latest single ‘EASY ON ME’. This captivating track is a collaboration with renowned songwriter Etta Zelmani (BTS, Don Diablo, Galantis), featuring her sensational vocals. With a unique blend of R&B melodies and punchy pop drums, ‘EASY ON ME’ is an exciting glimpse into NAVII’s upcoming EP ‘majorminor’, set to be released this Winter. We talk to NAVII about the sensational single release...
Hey NAVII, how are you? We’re absolutely loving ‘EASY ON ME’ at IGNITE. It’s so great that you’re down to talk to us!
I'm good, thank you! Thank you for having me!
Can you share more about the inspiration behind your latest single 'EASY ON ME' and how the collaboration with Etta Zelmani came about?
The inspiration and theme for the song came about very naturally, as Etta and I had just started dating when we wrote the song. We were actually in the studio working on other songs since we write and produce for other artists together. I played her a snippet of a beat and a little idea for the melody and she loved it. That’s how the song started.
We both thought that it could be beautiful to share the feelings and fears one goes through when exposing one's heart to another person.
‘EASY ON ME’ is such an intimate exploration of the fear and falling in love. Can you elaborate on how these themes manifested in ‘EASY ON ME’?
I think that everyone who has fallen in love knows what an emotional rollercoaster it is. You are happy, scared, filled with love and fears. You are constantly reminded that it is risky. I think the song describes the balancing act between the fear of having your heart broken and all the bubbly curiosity.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences throughout your life, and how have they impacted your sound?
When I was introduced to Bulgarian choir music, my sound changed completely. I was making Swedish hip-hop before I heard them. After that trip to Bulgaria, I came back to Sweden and started experimenting with sampling that choir, and that's how NAVII was born. Besides that, I listen to a lot of "Chiiild" and "Lucky Daye," to name a few.
How do you stay inspired and motivated to create new music?
It really varies. Sometimes all the stars align, and I have all the time in the world to create something new, but nothing feels exciting. On other days, I can open my laptop without any plan and create something amazing. But life inspires me. Seeing and experiencing new things, listening to people's stories, and doing things that challenge me. Right now, I am traveling a lot, and it is very inspiring to get a glimpse of different countries' cultures, especially from a social aspect. Swedes are quite vanilla and tend to keep people at arm's length, so to escape that from time to time helps.
Your upcoming EP ‘majorminor’ is set to be released this winter. What can we expect from this upcoming EP, anything you can tease?
An honest collection of songs from a guy who was in a very bad place, but who gradually became brighter and brighter during the process. Sonically, it’s an interesting mashup of RNB, Pop, Soul, and Hip-hop with dissonant tones from the Balkans. Something like that. Pretty simple, right?
You’ve worked with notable musicians like Per Berglin and David Lecander on this track. But, what has been the most memorable moment in your career so far?
There are many. But right now, a beautiful memory is when we were playing these songs live for the first time, and the whole lineup was in place. David on bass, Per on guitar, Etta and Cedrik Hammar on backing vocals, and Adrian Bellan on drums. It felt like the songs were being played with justice. Hopefully, you'll get to witness it in a city near you soon.
Your music blends elements of R&B, pop, and soul. If you could create a playlist with three songs from your biggest influences, what would you pick?
Frank Ocean - Strawberry Swing
Bon Iver & James Blake - I Need A Forest Fire
Mk.Gee - How Many Miles
When you're not making music, what do you love to do to unwind and stay inspired? Any favourite hobbies or guilty pleasures?
As I mentioned before, I travel a lot. I'm trying to find a country that is somewhat warm during the cold winter we have in Sweden. The plan is to buy a small house where I can escape during the winter to keep my vitamin D levels and mental health in good condition. Right now, southern Portugal is high up on the list. Feel free to hit me up with suggestions!
Looking back at your journey, from writing in Bulgaria and discovering Bulgarian folk to living and producing in Stockholm, what’s been the most unexpected lesson, place, or piece of advice that’s stuck with you?
People don't have time to analyse every step you take. People are busy living their own lives, and no one cares. Your music is far too good to gather dust on your hard drives. Believe that.
Listen to ‘EASY ON ME’ on SPOTIFY | APPLE MUSIC
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