South African rapper Nadia Nakai has opened up about three influential women who have shaped her journey: her grandmother, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela and global superstar Beyoncé.
Every successful artist has a story behind their ambition, creativity and drive. For Nadia Nakai, some of her biggest sources of inspiration come from women whose strength, influence and dedication have left a lasting impression on her life and career.
During a recent interview with The Cool on NINE80 NETWORK, the South African hip-hop star discussed three women who continue to influence her outlook, artistic identity and approach to the music industry.
From the resilience she inherited through her family to the political legacy of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela and the world-class performance standards set by Beyoncé, Nadia’s inspirations reflect different sides of her creative journey.
1. Her grandmother: The foundation of strength and resilience
At the centre of Nadia Nakai’s story is her grandmother, whom she credits as a powerful influence on the women in her family.
For Nadia, her grandmother represents much more than a family figure. She embodies determination, resilience and the strength to overcome challenges.
The rapper explained that her grandmother’s influence continues to live through the generations of women in their family, shaping how they approach life and adversity.
“I feel like she’s the matriarch, and her strength and resilience in everything that she did is in our DNA as the women in the family,” Nadia shared.
Her comments highlight the importance of family heritage in shaping her identity. Behind the public image of the performer is a personal connection to the values and experiences that helped influence her outlook on life.
2. Winnie Madikizela-Mandela: A powerful influence on her artistic identity
Another major inspiration for Nadia is the late Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, a prominent figure in South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle.
Nadia’s admiration for Madikizela-Mandela has also found its way into her creative work, particularly the visual direction and concept associated with her Bragga era.
The rapper explained that the historical figure left a lasting impression on her, influencing both the project’s cover and the way she approached its overall aesthetic.
“Bragga actually was inspired by Winnie Mandela. So even the cover, even like the way that I structured it… she had like a lingering spirit for me,” Nadia said.
Nadia also noted that people have commented on her resemblance to a young Winnie Madikizela-Mandela.
The connection illustrates how South African history and influential women can inspire contemporary artists to explore identity, image and storytelling through music.
For Nadia, the influence extends beyond appearance, reflecting an appreciation for the enduring presence and strength associated with Madikizela-Mandela’s legacy.
3. Beyoncé: The standard for performance and professionalism
When it comes to international music and live performance, Nadia looks to Beyoncé for inspiration.
The global superstar is known for her demanding performance standards, attention to detail, stage presence and commitment to her craft. These qualities have made her a benchmark for artists seeking to elevate their own live shows.
Nadia revealed that she repeatedly watches Beyoncé’s performances to study and appreciate the level of preparation behind them.
One performance she particularly admires is Beyoncé’s acclaimed Homecoming show, which documents her historic Coachella performances.
“I watch that over and over again and I literally stand in front of the TV pretending it’s me!” she revealed.
Her admission offers a glimpse into the work that can happen away from the recording studio and public spotlight. Studying other performers, learning from their techniques and imagining herself on a similar stage are all part of how Nadia draws motivation from one of the world’s biggest music stars.
Nadia Nakai’s inspirations reflect three sides of her journey
Nadia’s choices reveal three distinct sources of influence: her grandmother’s strength, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela’s historical and cultural significance, and Beyoncé’s dedication to performance excellence.
Together, these women represent family heritage, powerful African history and international artistic ambition.
As Nadia continues to develop her place in South African hip-hop, her reflections show how inspiration can come from personal relationships as well as influential figures whose impact stretches across generations and borders.
Which of these three women do you think has had the most interesting influence on Nadia Nakai’s journey? Share your thoughts in the comments.
