ManicFM

At just 17 years old, Nathan is tipped to become Britain’s biggest RnB star since Craig David. His first single, Come Into My Room, caused a major stir within the urban music scene and his long-awaited album, The Masterpiece, looks set to receive an equally positive reception. MANICFM caught up with the fresh-faced vocalist for a quick chat about trainers, his plans to change the game and Marvin Gaye…

How did you get into singing?

I’ve been singing my whole life! My Mum and Dad were always playing music around the house so it kinda came naturally. It wasn’t until I reached nine or ten years old that I began taking it seriously. To be honest, I just love performing whether it be singing, rapping, dancing or even acting. I’ll do anything to get on a stage!

What do you love about singing?

I just have a passion for music. It’s such a powerful thing. The best part is making others smile. I like seeing people happy and that’s what makes this business so fun.

Who are your main inspirations?

Marvin Gaye, R Kelly, Stevie Wonder and my all time number one artist…Michael Jackson! All the old-time classics. Apart from that, any good song I hear inspires me.

What other UK artists are you feeling at the moment?

I’m feeling so many UK artists I can’t even put them into one sentence. There’s so much talent coming out of this country at the moment. I’m really happy with the scene. Sway’s big and a new boy group called Fundamentals. Watch out for them.

If you could endorse any product, what would it be?

My own pair of trainers! Puma sponsors me and they really like the idea. They’re gonna be the hottest crepes on road believe. None of that plain business…in fact, I aint even gonna describe them, just wait and see innit. Coming soon to a store near you!

Who would you like to collaborate with?

Anyone who’s making good music really. I definitely need to make a tune with Sway, he’s bangin! It would be amazing to work with R Kelly too. You heard it here first!

What’s it like being the Uk’s modern day answer to ‘ladies man’ Marvin Gaye?

Are you being serious! I don’t know what they’re lookin’ at. Nah, for real that’s a compliment…it would have been a bit nicer coming from a girl though! I dunno really. I’m just being me and if people wanna make comparisons it’s all good. Especially when they’re like that. Wow!

What is your ultimate aim music-wise?

To change the game with my record label ‘Change The Game Records’. Basically, there’s so much talent coming out of the UK but it’s really hard to make it big. What I wanna do is make sure there’s a new outlet for UK music. If there’s a good song and a good act they deserve the chance to prove themselves. Standard.

What makes you different to every other young RnB singer?

The mix n’ blend. I lived in New York for six years, Jamaica for three years and the UK for most of my life. I bring all of that to the table. I like all types of music so I try and incorporate everything into my work. Go buy the album and you’ll understand what I’m talking about. It will definitely attract your attention!

What do you do in your spare time?

Listen to music, write music, play football, watch football (I’m a big Arsenal supporter) and sometimes I play a little Playstation. The usual things really.

Do you have any advice for singers starting out in the game?

Just love what you’re doing. Everything worth having is hard so if you love it, that’s gonna make it so much easier. Enjoy yourself but also focus. This is a hard game. I had to wake up early this morning!