AMAKA Opens Up About Going Solo, Thirsting Over Pedro Pascal, & More

AMAKA Opens Up About Going Solo, Thirsting Over Pedro Pascal, & More | Close Friends

Formerly half of the R&B sister duo VanJess, AMAKA, born Jessica Nwokike, is captivating the world with her Kaytranada-produced single “cruisin’,” promising to honor the demise of VanJess by continuing on the legacy they’ve been cultivating since 2009.

Departing on her journey as a solo artist, AMAKA is reintroducing herself to the world, and in some ways, for the very first time. As she gets to know who she is as an artist in this new iteration of her career, she joined us on Close Friends to go a layer beneath the dermis, speaking on inner child healing, confronting fears, and integrating her Nigerian upbringing.

Author: Jazmin Kylene

May 3, 2023

soul

interview

R&B

amaka

close friends

Joshua Jensen Believes “Music Makes the Universe Visible in our Ears” [Q&A]

November 13, 2026 Originally from Arizona, rising singer-songwriter Joshua Jensen grew up envisioning his life as a Broadway conductor, or a classical piano player. Then, he found songwriting, which he says allowed him to come to terms with “everything I love about art.”

Author: Noah Wade

singer songwriter

interview

Single

folk pop

Joshua Jensen

"Favorite Blue"

Hans Williams Found His Musical Identity In New Orleans [Q&A]

November 13, 2026 This writer caught his opening act slot for Chance Peña at NYC’s Webster Hall this past summer and walked away from the gig with a number of burning questions.

Author: Noah Wade

interview

debut album

americana

indie folk

hans williams

songs for the neighbors

Drive Down A Highway, Turn On 'Take A Video' And Introduce Yourself To Olivia C. Dacal [Q&A]

November 13, 2026 Settled into her grandmother's home, it was a joy to catch up with Olivia to talk inspirations, freedom, vulnerability and the night walks that shape her sound.

Author: Rosie Leishman

interview

indie pop

dream pop

olivia c. dacal

take a video