Nancy Kwai admits she never thought about pursuing a music career. But just as she was graduating university, a fortuitous opportunity came along in the form of an audition and led her onto a new path—one she has been on ever since. Between the heartbreaking ballads and electrifying dance songs that Cantopop is known for, and even the burgeoning R&B and hip hop scene, Kwai’s music stands on its own. Characterised by her tenderness and introspective nature, Nancy’s songs are gentle, making them perfect for listening in solitude or winding down for the night.
In less than two years, Kwai has already won Best Female Debut Singer at the Chill Club Chart Awards with four songs on the charts. Shortly afterwards, she released her debut EP premiere. The project displayed her laid-back artistry, fusing soft melodies with personal lyrics. Her second EP Blossoming uses seasons and flowers as a motif, and features her first-ever collaborative song. “I like to study different music, such as NewJeans’ electronic sounds,” said Kwai, offering insight into how she draws inspiration from her diverse listening experiences to create her own unique sound with the help of her producer.
Top, jacket, skirt, briefs, socks and shoes, all Miu Miu.
Since your debut two years ago, how have you gone about finding your own musical style?
When I first started making music, I felt like there were so many possibilities. But after I debuted, I found that there aren’t many opportunities to try different styles of music. I thought, “Should I focus on one particular style, so everyone can get to know my sound better, or should I explore different directions?” But I think this process takes longer than I expected. I need more time to slowly explore those possibilities.
How would you describe your music now?
I think my music is a bit more laid-back and gentle. It’s the kind of music you would listen to when you’re alone or before bed. I like to think of it as my cautionary tales or my diary. For now, my songs are not the kind you would play at a party and shout “Yo!” to. There’s more of an underlying message to it, and people can listen to my music and reflect on their lives and reminisce. I think my songs are more intimate; everyone can find their own little corner in them.
View this post on Instagram
You recently released your second EP Blossoming. Can you tell us how it’s different from your first EP? What message are you hoping to express?
This EP is interesting, because it’s the first time I’ve featured someone on a track. I worked with Olivia Marsh on the song “Blue Roses”. I also have a song called “I Tried”, and I gave quite a lot of direction on the writing. I think the overall feeling is still intimate, but there’s a faster pace to it.
With the song “Cardigan”, I originally wanted to make it more energetic, like a jazzy, three-beat kind of song. But after my producer combined my voice with that style, it became a song that was completely different to what I had initially imagined. This EP also has three side tracks. I started out wanting to try more styles of music and different interpretations, but after listening to my gut, I decided it was better to keep it how it is. But I would definitely like to try other directions in the future.
What’s a song that you really like at the moment?
I’ve been listening to Olivia Dean’s “Float” a lot. I think it’s really relaxing, and it’s good for when you want to contemplate your life.
Is it similar to how you are in your private life?
Maybe it is. I’m not the kind of person that can share a lot with many people. When it’s a one-to-one conversation, I can share a bit more. I think my personality is also reflected in my music and creative process. It’s more personal and a bit introverted.
You often share moments in your personal life on social media. How do you strike a balance between connecting with your fans and maintaining your own personal space?
When I post on Instagram, I never share a lot of my personal thoughts and feelings. It’s usually just one sentence, and maybe an emoji. I really don’t know where to start. I feel like emotions need a lot of background context, and I don’t know if the people who see it know who I am. But sometimes when I do Q&As on my Instagram story, it feels more like a conversation between two people. I think that’s more comfortable for me. I can say more.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced so far in your career?
The biggest challenge for me is performing on stage. Before becoming a singer, I didn’t have any performing experience, let alone singing on stage for so many people. So the first time I realised I had to sing in front of a crowd, it was really difficult for me. The first time I’ve ever been to a concert was when my label took me to see Dear Jane. I was 20 years old, and that was the first time I’ve experienced the energy and impactt of a live performance.
Do you think you’ve overcome this challenge?
I think I’ve improved a bit, but I’ve still got a long way to go. When I first started out, every performance was filled with so much uncertainty, it made me anxious. But I think I’ve slowly gotten used to it. I’ve realised I need to work on the details, like how to enjoy the stage. Now I analyse the feeling of being on stage so I can deal with it in a better way.
View this post on Instagram
What’s your favourite part of your job then?
My favourite part is the recording process. I can really see how a song is born when I’m in the studio recording it. I can understand it a bit more and interpret it in my own way. The producer will tell you how you can use your voice to bring the song to life, and how tiny changes to the demo can completely change how the song ends up sounding. There are so many possibilities when you’re in the studio, but we ultimately pick a direction and make a complete song.
Any goals for the future?
Right now I just want to pick the right song, because I want to try something that’s a bit more nuanced, but I don’t know if it suits me. I’m also thinking about the theme for the next EP. Maybe I’ll write four to eight songs with a similar theme in mind and go from there.
In the long run, if I go on stage and I can truly enjoy myself and feel completely free without second-guessing myself when I go home, then I’ve really made it. No matter how big the stage is, as long as I’m feeling confident and living in the moment, I’d feel like I’ve overcome the challenge. Isn’t this new territory?
Translated by Matt Chau
Photography: Deon Wong
Styling: Cherry Mui
Makeup Artist: Jenny Shih
Hair Stylist: Jaime Lee
Fashion Assistants: Mama Yiu, Natasha Yao & Talia Tom
Editor
Cherry Mui
