A proud Denver native and mother of three, singer, songwriter, and community leader Nakira describes herself as “all things artistic.” She told listeners when she sat down with SugaBear & La Molly, “I love to draw. I’ve tattooed some. I’m a community activist, like I’m involved in all the things. Giving is a major theme in my life because so many people have given to me.” Music has always been at the center of her journey. Raised in the church, Nakira grew up surrounded by her family’s rich musical tradition. “There was never a time I can recall where music was not a part of my life,” she said. From church choirs to family jam sessions, those early experiences continue to shape her sound.
Nakira also opened up about the role of mental health in her life and music. “I’ve experienced so many things—marriage, divorce, raising three kids, and the biggest goal with my new project is to be more vulnerable,” she shared. “There are so many people who can pull from that or feel like they’re not alone.” She recalled a turning point in 2022, when she began experiencing panic attacks. “Your actual health ties so much into your mental health. As mothers, we take care of everyone else and put ourselves last. But just like on an airplane, you have to put your mask on first.”
Beyond music, Nakira is making an impact with her nonprofit Lyrics for Life, launched in April. The program mentors 8th–12th graders interested in music, pairing them with DJs, songwriters, and engineers across the city. It also teaches essential life skills like emotional intelligence and conflict resolution. “They don’t teach this stuff in schools anymore,” she explained. “If we can give young people those tools early, it sets them up for greater success in life.”
Her upcoming EP, Naked (dropping September 26), is both personal and deeply introspective. “It speaks back to that vulnerability. I want to bear my whole soul. Sure, I can do turn-up tracks, but I feel like that doesn’t serve the greater good of my audience. This project is therapy for me and for anyone with a similar story.” Balancing motherhood, her nonprofit, and her artistry hasn’t been easy, but Nakira says being intentional has made the difference. “Reprioritizing and telling myself it’s OK to invest in myself has been huge. The longer you wait, the less people you reach. People need you.”With bravery, openness, and artistry, Nakira is showing that being “naked” isn’t about exposure, it’s about truth. Follow her journey on Instagram at @_IamNakira and stream her music on all platforms under Nakira.