“The music world is coming together”: A Chat with Downtempo Musician Priyya

I was blown away when I first heard Priyya’s music. I was minding my own business, scrolling through Facebook during work hours when I came across an interview that looked interesting. I clicked through to Priyya’s song ‘Constant’ (produced by DRKBXT) and when I hit play, I was swept away into a world of wonder.

I love how elegant and graceful the sound is, and at the same time, how comfortable. This Nepalese-born singer and musician is based in New Jersey and is a pioneer in the world of Downtempo music. Their music is melodic and soothing, and in between beats, holds echoes of social themes of identity and belonging. I feel like I’m in a trance if I listen to their music long enough. It relaxes the soul. I was able to discuss a little bit with Priyya about what their life is like, so please enjoy! Black Nerd Problems: First things first: What’s the nerdiest thing about you? Priyya: Getting into heated discussions about Star Wars. BNP: Run the gamut with us; what does your everyday life look like? Priyya: Work all day, music at night, wine breaks in between.BNP: Your music blends culture with ethereal magic. How do you create your sounds? Priyya: [I’m] still working on my unique “sound” but one of my favorite things to do is to blend natural sounds with those digitally produced. I take influences from all around me, from my friends, the musicians I work with, my family, and that is what inspires my writing the most. My mother was a classical Nepalese singer, and I am really…