Dua Saleh: Nūr
Dua Saleh is a Minnesota Native ( born in Sudan) that’s been floating around the Twin Cities music scene for a while now. I had the pleasure of hearing them live a few years ago for a fashion event. They started out in the poetry realm, so music seems to come out of them naturally. Their vocals and quick tongue, are examples of both coming together. I was so excited to hear they were finally dropping their EP, Nūr.
Photography by Izzy Commers// @izzycommers
Nur is produced by Psymun, who’s own music career has been poppin off. Psymun has a way to help show case an artist’s talent. Nur is a great example to this. Nur’s sound is profound. Dua’s vocals are so versatile, from the first track “Sugar Mama” that Dua produced themselves, comes off poppy, quick with her tongue surrounded by a beat that keeps you wanting more. my favorite lyric from the track is “Not used to girls with stringy hair, I like them in a bonnet.”
Warm Pants is another favorite track. The sound immediately drifts you into a movement. Dua’s voice is strong and demanding. “I need you now” The background vocals from Corban (another twin cities artist) collabs perfectly with Dua’s. This track has a electric dance background to it and you get lost into the instrumentals, wrapped in Dua’s vocals. “I need you now”
Photography by Izzy Commers//@izzycommers
Survival featuring another Twin Cities artist, Velvet Negroni is another dreamy, and distinctive track. Velvet Negroni’s vocals are poetically flowing with Dua’s. I love the way it sounds when they say, “Your face too grimy.”
@doitlikedua
Dua Saleh has recently signed with Against Giants, so I’m personally too excited to see their upcoming projects and more collaboration with more non-binary/ trans artist in Twin Cities. In a past interview Dua shouts out Twin Cities artist Kamilla Love and BooBoo, which put the biggest smile on my face. Something that’s been missing in the Twin Cities music scene is more POC Queer/Non Binary/Trans artist being seen. I’m here for all of it, so make sure you’re on the watch, because these artist are here and they are coming in strong with all the talent but most importantly with their stories and passions to be heard.