Read HER Magazine’s Latest Interview With Nadia Batson- Soca’s Darling.
By Essiba Small, HER Magazine
The first time I saw Nadia Batson, it was at Upper Level Club in West Mall for the taping of the hugely popular 80/90s teen talent show, Party Time. Batson was part of the singing trio Silhouette and I, one of the partying teens, just happy to see the show live. Batson’s career since Silhouette has grown in spades. She is not only a consummate performer whose down-to-earthness has earned her the endearing nickname “Nadie” by her fans, she’s also a prolific songwriter.
Her – Happy Carnival! How is the season coming along? And how do you feel about being back into the full, full, no-holds-barred Carnival?
NADIA BATSON (NB) – It feels so good to see the masses outside. There’s nothing more beautiful than seeing everyone together in the same space. I missed the connection with the people. Last year we were fortunate to have a “Taste of Carnival” and of course we completely understood why it had to be that way, but this year, we are back out in our numbers and it’s an awesome feeling.
Her – Of your 2023 releases, which one is your favourite and why. And which among them are favourites of your fans, in terms of response?
NB – For 2023, my favourite release is “Mecca”. It was written at a time when I was reflecting on how much I love my country. I’ve performed in so many other countries and other carnivals/festivals around the world, but nothing can compare to the euphoric feeling that you get when you touch down in Trinidad & Tobago. This is the mecca of Carnival.
To be honest, my fans have responded favourably to all of my 2023 releases, but the ones they appear to love the most are “Soca Party” and “Endurance”.
Her – You collaborated with RomaIn Virgo for the track “Nothing Better”; what was that experience like?
NB – The collaboration with Romain Virgo was so magical, and holds a special place in my heart for many reasons. Firstly, I’ve always wanted to work with Romain because I think he has one of the most amazing voices in the entire Caribbean.
When contact was made and the song was presented to him, he not only loved the song and agreed to collaborate, but he also expressed that he was a huge fan of my work as well. Of course I was over the moon with excitement. He and his team were so easy to work with and shared in our enthusiasm, which made the project even that more enjoyable.
Her – You have always been among the top five artistes who enjoy great Carnival seasons – from airplay to fete appearances. What drives you, and what is the secret to your success?
NB – My aim has always been to stay true to who I am as a person and to be consistent with my music. I’m never trying to be in the top five (even though I welcome it (laughs). I just always try to make my fans happy. I think being as relatable as I am, is a major key to my success.
Her – Which of your two talents do you like more – singing or songwriting?
NB – Hmmmmmm, singing and writing are such different forms of expression. I would probably say writing, because I’m able to truly tap into, and document every emotion that I may be feeling at any particular point in time, or stage of my life.
Her – Who are some of the artistes you have written for this year, and how does the writing process work? Do you write a song and envision an artiste that you think would be perfect for said song or do the artistes come to you with requests?
NB – Truthfully, I haven’t been able to write for artistes as much as I used to. My schedule has become so hectic, and it makes it a bit difficult to write for others. Whenever I write for artistes, I try my best to channel them in terms of how they sing, how they execute on stage etc. It must feel real to them. This year my collaborations with Romain Virgo (“Nothing Better”) and Farmer Nappy (“Enough”) were both written by me.
Her – We know that you will be performing at some of the major Carnival 2023 events, but talk to us about your own concert Artform.
NB – I’m so excited for Artform, which will held on February 9th at the Five Islands Amusement Carpark. This will actually be the fourth installment of my concert in Trinidad. I will be putting on a full-length band performance, with so many surprises and guest artistes. February 9th will be AWESOME!!
ONE MORE THING – I want to say a huge thank you to my fans and the people who have supported me and continue to support me. Thank you to all of the DJs and media for playing my music and featuring me on various platforms. Thank you to all of the promoters/promotions for including me in their events.
Thank you to my team for being efficient and always placing my best interest at heart. Thank you to my family and friends who continue to be the greatest support system I can ever hope for.
