“I’m Still Learning Every Day”: Nella’s Raw, Inspiring Talk on Cosoro Radio

Afrobeats Radar on Cosoro Radio recently welcomed Nella, a rising voice whose blend of Cameroonian rhythms and global influences is earning her attention across continents. In an honest conversation, she shared the inspiration behind her latest single No Visa, the challenges of navigating music as an independent artist, and how her journey from Cameroon to L.A. continues to shape the sound she’s building today.

Asked about the meaning behind No Visa, Nella’s answer was simple and intentional: the song is about love, a love without borders, restrictions, or paperwork. In a time where immigration struggles dominate headlines, especially in the United States, she wanted to create something healing and human.

“We’re going through so much across the globe,” she explained. “I wanted to write a song about love that many could relate to. A love that doesn’t require a visa.”

For her, the metaphor extends beyond romance. It’s a call for compassion, understanding, and a society where connection isn’t limited by geography, nationality, or bureaucracy.

Nella’s foundation is unmistakably African. Raised in Cameroon, she grew up surrounded by musicians on both sides of her family. Traditional drums, rhythmic Cameroonian melodies, and the music of her childhood shaped her long before she consciously chose the path of an artist.

But life took her far from home. Moving to the United States exposed her to R&B, hip-hop, and the wider textures of global music, a blend that would later define her sound. Although she has lived most of her life in the U.S., Nella says her heart never left Cameroon. It’s what grounds her creativity and keeps her connected to the issues that matter to her community.

One of the most surprising parts of Nella’s journey is how recently it began. Her first time ever stepping into a studio was just 14 months ago. By chance, a producer invited her to experiment with a song, and the result became her debut single JJ.

From there, everything changed. Coming from a corporate background, she describes the transition into music as rewarding but demanding. The learning curve was steep, the challenges plenty, and the shift from structure to the fluidity of the music industry was a shock.

But she kept going. Nella is completely independent—no label, no big machine, just passion, discipline, and a small team that believes in her vision.

Her independence gives her freedom, but it also comes with the emotional and financial weight of doing everything herself. Promotion especially has been a challenge in an era where artists must constantly create content, stay visible, and keep feeding the algorithm.

“It’s a day-by-day struggle,” she admitted. “But once you find your people, it’s worth it.”

Looking ahead, Nella is currently working on her debut EP, AfroTopia, a 10-track project that feels more like an album than a first tape. For someone who had never written a song just over a year ago, she’s proud of how far she has come.

“I can’t wait to share it,” she said. “I literally came from never writing a song to writing a whole project.”