2024: A Year of Music, Moves, and Major Milestones
I released my debut project, Finally Nadine, in 2019—writing with some insanely talented musicians and producers such as Emlyn Maillard, Nate Cross, Simon Lee, Justin Atherley, and Mark Franks. I played as many instruments as I could, crafting something I knew I’d stand by. Then I pulled together a band— some of my favourite people, who also happen to be some of the best musicians I know. #GoodVibesOnly. We hit stages across London and the UK… I got a call to do the Lizzo gig in February, while she was in London and then… March 2020 hit. Lockdown. The world paused.
But the creativity doesn’t stop. Locked Down but Not Out was born—a project that featured powerhouses like Mark Walker, Darren Benjamin, Nicolas Haag, Jools Scott, Dan Storey, Emlyn Maillard, me on drums, and the late, GREAT… Joey Grant on bass. At the same time, I was still getting the call to MD shows—Bagdad Cafe (The Old Vic), Wuthering Heights (National Theatre/UK tour), and Misty (which I had the honour of co-MD’ing with Liam Godwin before taking it to NYC for six weeks Off-Broadway). I’m probably missing a few things (lol), but as you can see things were busy! THEN… I got an email that changed everything…
Moving to the USA & Brown University
In 2022, as the lockdown was coming to an end, I received an email from Brown University asking me to develop and teach a course based on my work and experience to date… I WAS BEING HEADHUNTED! At first, I honestly thought it was a scam! But once I got over the shock, I immediately said yes and began preparing to make it happen.
2023 came and while I was in New York working Off-Broadway on Misty, Brown University made arrangements for me to visit Rhode Island, to check out their brand-new Lindemann Performing Arts Center in Providence. They then told me, I’d be one of the first to teach in this state-of-the-art space. No lie—it was a moment. I thought back to something Myles Munroe once said: “If you make yourself valuable, people will pay for you.” That hit different seeing it play out in real life.
Fast forward to 2024, I officially moved to the U.S and settled in to our abode. This wasn’t just about teaching—it was about reshaping music education, bridging technical mastery with real-world artistry and industry game. It’s been amazing seeing students step into their own artistry, and knowing I get to be part of that journey is priceless.
Performances & Showcases
My time in the US was filled with performances that truly mattered. In The Lab with…, I had the opportunity to explore creativity alongside some incredibly talented artists. The Black Music Project was a powerful experience, celebrating Black musical excellence and driven by the next generation. Then, there was Finally Nadine Live at Brown University—a full-circle moment. Bringing my music to life in that space was something I’ll never forget.
I was also tasked with finding a band of my choice, which was both scary and exciting at the same time because, as you know, I LOVE my UK band. However, after meeting Keithen Foster—who has worked with H.E.R. and others—he connected me with my band leader, Sean Alexander. Sean, along with my Musical Director Emlyn Maillard and Programmer DJ Forester, helped me assemble the perfect band and sound. The lineup came together beautifully: Sean Alexander on Keys and as Band Leader, Jahmehl Taylor on Hammond, Seth Xavier and Ty Cameron on Bass, Kendall Francis and Kevin Scollins on Guitar, Will Brown and Marcus Grant on Drums, and the Horn Section—Noah Allen, Simon Lee, Idrie Bailey, and Leland Baker. The energy was unreal, and I couldn’t have asked for a better group to bring my vision to life!
SAMMUS & Nadine
My Student Aaliyah
Finally Nadine Live at Brown
The Band… oh and then we found the rest (lol)
Finally Nadine at The Blue Room
Another major highlight was my show at The Blue Room in Rhode Island, where the atmosphere was incredible, the energy was unparalleled, and the connection with the audience felt truly genuine. I was joined by the talented Jada (@JadaUkOfficial) as my support artist, along with an amazing band—JT, Noah Allen, Will Brown, Kendal Francis, and Ty Cameron. And the best part. I’ll be returning soon.
Pictured left to right – Kendal Francis (Guitar), Nadine Lee, Jada Lee and Noah Allen (Trumpet)
Coming Home…
Beyond my own shows, I got to step into different musical spaces—playing bass for Tracy Jane Campbell at the 606 Club, backing vocals for Little Piece of You: An Atypical Musical in Concert with the legendary Mica Paris, and prepping for my Finally Nadine Live at Brown University release. 2024 stretched me as an artist in all the right ways.
‘Little Piece of You’, Drury Lane, London (Click the arrow to view)
This year wasn’t just about music—it was about building. EMUSIK Ltd has been growing, expanding music education services for schools and institutions. At the same time, I’ve been locked in on my own career strategy, mapping out the next phase of this journey. I must say a huge thank you to Olanda and Chira, The beautiful people at BAI who looked after me when I was at Brown.
Family, Legacy & What’s Next
Through it all, my family is my foundation. My daughters—Jada, Sarayah, and Naima—and my husband Simon are my why. We all have our own version of events so check out their stories too.
So, what’s next? 2025. More music. More moments. More movement. If 2024 was about stepping into purpose, then 2025? We’re elevating. Let’s go.
Wow!! when you look back on 2024 it was packed full of great memories along with achieving a few career milestones. I can’t wait to see what 2025 has in store for you Nadine.
Its actually very exciting! So much happening and I cant wait to share.
Keep up the good work!
Thank you
Oh my! What a journey this has been for you Nadine and you are a living testimony. 2025 has got lots more to offer and numerous doors will be opened for you from this day forward Nadine!!!
Thank you so much!
Love this big sis! So happy for all you have achieved and can’t wait to see what 2025 has in store!
God is faithful! Proud of all you’ve accomplished so far and excited to see what next is in store for you. Greater is ahead!