Nnennaya Kelly is an award-winning Afrofusion artist blending Afrobeats, Soul, R&B, and Amapiano. Born in Nebraska and raised in Detroit, she began singing at age seven and was influenced by her music-loving father. After a successful corporate career in HR and IT, she reignited her music journey in 2020, releasing her debut EP, Love & Life, in 2026. Her empowering single, “A’ma Get My Way,” debuted on BBC Music Introducing. Nnennaya Kelly is also the founder of Naya Music LLC, a label focused on supporting female and under-25 male artists in African and diasporic genres. She’s known for her uplifting sound, philanthropy, and dedication to creating space for emerging talent.
With her single, “A’ma Get My Way,” out now, we took some time to hear from Nnennaya Kelly. Read below to learn more about Nnennaya Kelly, the story behind her single, and what’s to come.
Hi Nnennaya Kelly! Let’s start with how you got your artist name.
My real name is Nnenna Okoturo. ‘Nnennaya’ is a Nigerian (Igbo tribe name) that means ‘I am the mother of my father.’ When I was born, my dad had just lost his mother during the Biafran war. He saw my birth as a sign that she had returned to him through me—a beautiful spiritual connection. ‘Kelly’ is a name that I love, and it’s short for Kelechi, which means ‘Thank or Praise God’ in Igbo.
What city are you from and where are you based now?
I was born in Lincoln, Nebraska. I’m now based between London and Alexandria, Virginia.
At what point in your life did you decide to pursue a career in music? How did you get started?
I began my music journey at age seven in Detroit, Michigan, singing solos in the girls’ choir at St. Paul Cathedral. I went on to study vocals at Montgomery College in Maryland, focusing on mezzo-soprano opera. I eventually shifted paths due to stage fright and lack of encouragement, switching to HR and IT. But, music never left me. After my youngest child was born in 2018, I reignited my passion and fully committed in 2020. I’ve never looked back—it’s never too late!
Has your upbringing played a role in shaping who you are and defining your sound today?
Absolutely. My father, Venerable Archdeacon Dr. Sydney Ugwunna, was a music lover with over sixty vinyl records. He took us to Broadway shows, orchestras, and enrolled us in music school in Detroit, where I learned piano and recorder. His love of music shaped me, and although I didn’t complete my music degree, I’m now fulfilling that dream in my own way.
How would you describe your sound to readers who may not be familiar with you?
My sound is Afrofusion—a mix of Afrobeats, Soul, R&B, and House/Amapiano. I’m a romantic and a lover of life, and I aim to reflect that through music that uplifts, encourages, and celebrates love.
Do you have any hobbies outside of music? What keeps you creative?
I love fashion and style myself and my team. I love traveling and meeting new people! I’m into jewelry, bling, and dancing! Back in high school, in Nigeria, I started a dance group called The Groovys—we performed at schools all over the northern part of Nigeria.
Who are some of your main musical influences?
Sade, Tems, Yemi Alade, Lionel Richie, Boyz II Men, Joeboy, Wizkid, and Sarz. And, of course, my son OB1, who is an incredible artist and inspiration.
Who would be a dream to collaborate with?
Oh wow—Sade Adu or Tems! Singing with either of them would be an absolute dream. Their voices, artistry, and grace have shaped so much of how I view music.
What are some of your future music career goals?
Release a new EP in 2026 with multiple singles dropping in between.
Help OB1, my 18-year-old son and co-founder of our label, drop his first EP this August and new singles from May through July. Grow our label NAYA MUSIC (Ultimate Innovations Music LLC), which focuses on female artists and males under 25. We support vocalists, producers, instrumentalists, and more—creating a safe space to launch global careers.
What’s one of the proudest moments of your music career so far?
Releasing my debut EP, Love & Life, in 2026, funding and performing my first solo concert in Camden, London, winning two RBE London Music Awards, and being nominated for Best Female Afrobeats Artist at the BEFFTA Awards. I also headlined and performed at the O2 Academy stage—an unforgettable moment!
What would you say are the greatest lessons you’ve learned so far?
Be yourself. Push your limits, but enjoy the journey. Don’t hold grudges—life is too short. Stay focused, stay consistent, and collaborate wisely. Take the stairs, not the elevator—step-by-step growth builds the strongest foundation.
Now onto your release, ‘A’ma Get My Way.’ What inspired this song?
It was inspired by my journey—by staying true to myself. As you grow, you may lose people, but that’s okay. It’s a declaration that I’m moving forward—with or without approval.
What is ‘A’ma Get My Way’ about?
It’s an empowering anthem for women, blending Afrobeat with soulful Afrofusion. It encourages women to own their path, break barriers, and rise boldly. It debuted on BBC Music Introducing and is airing on BBC Radio’s The Spin. It’s also the first single released under my new label, Naya Music LLC, which champions women and young male artists in African and diasporic genres.
What’s your favorite lyric in ‘A’ma Get My Way’ and why?
‘My Way… Getting My Way. My Way, Oh Oh! You can go, you can stay.’ It’s a reminder that I’m moving forward regardless—empowering, honest, and free.
What message do you hope fans take away from your music and ‘A’ma Get My Way’?
I hope they feel inspired to claim their space, stand in their truth, and never apologize for their journey. Your path is valid. You matter. Own it.
What’s next for you? Any upcoming projects or shows we should know about?
Yes! I’m dropping more singles throughout 2025 and preparing for a summer/fall tour in the UK and U.S. I’ll also be featured in several showcases highlighting women in Afrobeats. OB1 is also releasing singles starting May and his debut EP in August under Naya Music.
This spring and summer, I’ll also be taking the stage to connect with audiences live:
July 3rd 2025 – London School of Contemporary Music (UK)
August 15th 2025 – Washington DC/ Maryland (USA) (Support Performance)
Additionally, I’m co-producing and releasing an EP with my 18-year-old son, OB1, titled, High School Graduation. This six-track project blends youthful innovation with deep musicality, and we’re so proud of what we’ve created together.
Where can we follow you on social media?
You can follow me here:
Instagram: @nnennayakelly
TikTok: @nnennayakelly
YouTube: Nnennaya Kelly
Website: www.nnennayakelly.com
Label: www.nayamusicllc.com
Before you go, let’s ask you something random. What is your favorite food?
I absolutely love Nigerian-style plantains—fried, grilled, boiled, you name it! And throw in some well-fired yams? Heaven on a plate!
Thank you for the great interview; wish you much continued success!
