23rd February, 2025
Michael Adesina
In an exclusive interview with PM News, N Brown (Nora Brown) shared her remarkable journey into the music industry, fueled by her passion and resilience in the face of adversity.
After being bullied online due to her struggles with sickle cell anemia, N Brown channeled her experiences into music, emerging as a talented rapper with a distinctive sound.
Her latest album, “Area Mama,” showcases her innovative blend of rap, Mboko language, and personal storytelling, captivating audiences worldwide.
With her unstoppable passion and inspiring story, N Brown is poised to make a lasting impact on the global music scene.
Please read the full interview below
Introduction and Background
Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in music?
I have always loved rap music since when I was a teenager. I used to sing songs from artists like 2pac, Missy Elliott and Eve. In 2021, I got bullied and insulted online in regards to my health by a rapper. Hence I decided to respond using rap music. That’s how I produced my first rap song “Go Get Be” which was a Diss Track but loved by lots of people.
Who are some of your biggest influences?
Once I released my first Diss Track, I gained so much attention and it pushed me to produce more music and that’s how writing and recording rap tunes became part of me. My rap style is greatly influenced by Missy Elliott, Jovi and Shaybo.
How would you describe your music style, and how has it evolved over time?
My music style is rap music using our famous Cameroon language called Mboko. This is a blend of English, Pidgin & sometimes French. Over time, I have tried to incorporate other styles of singing like kwachanga
The Album
Congratulations on your newly released project. Tell us about it!
The title of my newly released EP is Area Mama. It is so rich and it’s got a blend of different genres, beats and international collaborations. Everyone should be able to have one song which they’ll love.
What’s the story behind it?
This EP tells my story. Area Mama depicts a woman who takes care of everyone in the hood. My life has been one full of pain, strength and resilience. I am mother to many, especially the less privileged. I mingle with everyone in the ghetto. Hence Area Mama, the one and only Area Mama.
How long did it take to create the project, and what was the recording process like?
The Area Mama EP took almost 2yrs to create it. It was not easy as my recording studio is in another country. Spent most of my time in air, catching flights back to back.
Can you walk us through some of the themes and emotions explored on the album?
Each track is unique and expresses its own emotions.
-The Intro is a deeper narration of my birth, parental challenges, societal narration especially to a child born with sickle cell anaemia.
– Money: tells a story of how I walked the streets, hustling from secondary school days to become who I am today.
– Step Up: This track encourages ladies to be their own boss and experience the beautiful life that comes from being a boss.
Are there any standout tracks or collaborations that you’re particularly excited about?
Yes, I am excited with the song Money and the song Life (ft. Paco Diatta) a Senegalese
Creative Process
What’s your songwriting process like? Do you have any specific rituals or habits that help spark creativity?
I get inspiration from my personal experiences and from situations around me. I also get ideas when riding in the bus or on my sick bed.
How do you approach production, and do you work with any specific producers or collaborators?
I have a team that works with me. I use specify producers that understand the type of genre I am singing and also producers that understand Cameroon style of rhythm. My recording studio also needs to understand the language I am using for proper guidance and assistance.
What role does experimentation play in your creative process, and are you open to trying new things?
I am very open to trying new things that’s why I could easily create music with a Senegalese musician and flowing effortlessly on a Senegal oriented beats. That song gives a different perspective on how diverse my art can be.
Future Plans
What’s next for you after the album release? Are you working on any new projects or collaborations?
Yes there is lots on the way. Working on another album, singles and collaborations.
How do you see your music evolving in the future, and are there any new styles or genres you’re interested in exploring?
Yes, I will be exploring more of Afrobeats and RnB.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians looking to release their own music?
Make sure you have a road map and a team to help you and resources to fulfil certain aspects of promoting your art.
