How Naqibah Fadzil found her way into R&B
Naqibah Fadzil burst onto the Brunei R&B music scene, initially performing covers on Youtube. Her soulful voice has earned her praise from netizens and applause from listeners.
We sat down with her in our recording studio to ask more about her inspiration and her goals for music.
Listen to her latest song ‘You Can’t’ on Progresif Radio> On Demand> Locals Only. Download the Progresif Radio App on Google Play and the App Store.
When and how did you start getting into music?
I started getting into music when I was in high school. I joined the choir at the time and I enjoyed it a lot. But we did a lot of Malay patriotic songs, while was more into English songs. Ever since then I’ve been making covers in English.
Which artists do you think you sound like?
I think I sound like H.E.R. (Gabriella Wilson). She also sings really well and I am a big fan of her songs. She also projects so much soul in her vocals which are in the lower registers.
What genre would you classify yourself as?
I’m purely focused on R&B. I do enjoy hip-hop but I don’t really rap. It also means that I get to twist songs to fit my own vocal style.
Who are the major influences on your sound?
I think that would be Too Phat, a Malay hip-hop duo and they’re quite a classic. They’re the first reason how I got into singing.
Do you have a pre-gig ritual?
Before any gig, I would drink a lot of water, eat candy and listen to music privately on my iPod.
You can listen to her new song, ‘You Can’t’ by downloading the Progresif Radio App on Google Play and the App Store.
What are your future plans musically?
I want to create more songs and covers and upload them on Soundcloud. From there, I hope to have a few more gigs here and there.
What does the word ‘progressive’ mean to you?
The word ‘progressive’ means being yourself and being out there so you can achieve your dreams.