Inspired #384 - Tega
South-East London based Neo-soul artist Tega has just released her new r&b single ‘No Chill’.
Taking notes from hits in the early 2000s - the track blends deep emphatic instrumentals with soulful and relatable lyrics, which explore the rollercoaster of love. It’s highs, it’s lows and everything in-between. Taking influence from artists such as Sza, Rihanna, Kelis and Summer Walker - Tega took a moment to talk to us about the inspirations behind her music.
Who are your top three musical inspirations and why?
My top 3 musical inspirations have to be Rihanna, Alicia Keys and Lauryn Hill
I love Rihanna because she is very edgy and has an eclectic catalogue of music ranging from pop to R&B and has even experimented with rap.
I also love Alicia Keys and Lauryn Hill as they’re multifaceted and talented individuals. Their songwriting skills are impeccable, having so much depth and soul that can move a nation.
Is there a certain film that inspires you and why?
A film that has inspired me the most is the pursuit of happiness. It taught me about the importance of perseverance and chasing your dreams, which are definitely fundamental to my journey as an artist.
[Bonus] Another film that has immensely inspired me is freedom writers, which instils the lesson of fighting for what you believe in. Even in the face of adversity.
What city do you find the most inspiring and why?
I love New York City because of how fast-paced it is and their work ethic that a large proportion of the people adopt. They have a ‘hustler mentality’. The culture is also very similar to that of London, in terms of how culturally diverse they are.
Who is the most inspiring person to you and why?
The most inspiring person I know is my mother. She was an orphan at a very young age and did not get to complete her education in secondary school because she could not afford it. However, she learnt how to fend for herself and make money by selling goods to locals and eventually managed to come to the UK and build a wonderful for herself and my family. She is very resilient and one of the most selfless people I know.
What were your inspirations when writing your new track?
There was a guy I head over heels for, it was ‘situation-ship’ that was very complicated. I had so much loyalty for him despite the nature of our relationship being unofficial. I knew he was seeing other people but It didn’t change how I felt about him.
How would you like to inspire people?
I would like to inspire people to practice selflessness and philanthropy, opposed to setting their focus on materialistic possessions and superficial things that society has glorified. I would like to remind people about the importance of forming deep and meaningful relationships
