06.05.23/06.06.23 – Photos and article by Brandon Lenzmeier

Minneapolis might have experienced a surge in energy this past week as Atlanta’s “Brat Pop Rock” singer Nadia Vaeh made her first ever visit to our beloved city. If you haven’t already discovered this powerful singer, I urge you to rush to your favorite streaming platform and give her a listen. Recently, I had the pleasure of spending time with Nadia and getting to know her, her partner and producer/sound engineer Tyler Spratt, and her remarkable journey. 

Nadia and Tyler embarked on an adventure from Atlanta to Minneapolis while making some stops along the way, one being to perform in Nashville, TN.  Their primary purpose of the trip was to come to Minneapolis and record choral tracks to enhance Nadia’s single “Rise.” Originally recorded in 2016 and released in 2020, Nadia realized that “Rise” had the potential to become an ever-evolving masterpiece. With the addition of a vocal track from hip-hop artist, Hazel Rose the song reached new heights, and the idea of including a youth choir seemed like a no-brainer way to elevate it even further.

Nadia’s connection to singing in a choir traces back to her childhood in Atlanta where, at age ten, she crossed paths with Phillip Shoultz, a dedicated choir director who aimed to create a positive outlet for the community through music. As a naturally shy kid, Nadia found solace in Phillip’s program, which allowed her to express herself more freely. Unfortunately, tragedy struck when Nadia was seventeen, as she lost her mother to suicide. Through the darkest times, Phillip remained a steadfast support system, providing a safe place for Nadia to channel her emotions into music with her powerful voice. Although coping with such loss led Nadia to a period of time of substance abuse, her passion for writing and singing never wavered. 

Fast forward a few years, Phillip now resides in Minneapolis where he serves as the artistic director at VocalEssence, a renowned music organization that engages people of all ages and cultures, empowering them through music and singing. Phillip reached out to Nadia expressing immense pride in her journey and personal growth despite the adversities she had faced. This conversation sparked a brilliant idea in Nadia’s mind; she would travel to Minneapolis and invite Phillip and his talented youth choir to contribute their vocal magic to her song, “Rise.”

Nadia and Tyler spent a couple of days in Minneapolis recording with Phillip and the youth choir at VocalEssence, speaking and performing for students at Longfellow Alternative High School, exploring our beautiful city, and meeting me for coffee. Their genuine kindness and energy were passed along during every stop that they made. 

Nadia is in the process of starting her own non-profit organization called the “Rise Up Foundation” where individuals will have the opportunity to express themselves and learn about music in a positive environment just as Nadia had when she was younger. The foundation looks to offer scholarships along with summer camps. 

Nadia’s journey from a shy young girl finding her voice to a resilient and passionate artist reflects the power of music and the unwavering support of mentors like Phillip. Her story is a testament to the healing potential of music and how it can help individuals find comfort and meaning amidst life’s most challenging circumstances.

Be on the lookout for a pre-save link for Nadia Vaeh’s latest version of her song “Rise” featuring the VocalEssence youth choir.