Local singer bursts onto the scene

Local singer bursts onto the scene

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Navisha has already dropped her new single Free.

At just 19, Canning Vale singer Navisha is already drawing attention in Perth’s music scene. But she didn’t start with fame or a viral song. It began with a feeling.

“I didn’t completely understand it back then,” she said. “But even as a kid in piano lessons, I knew music was something I connected with deeply.”

That connection grew stronger over time. She started out playing clarinet in primary school to starring in school musicals. Navisha’s life was always filled with rhythm and melody. But it wasn’t until high school, when she joined the specialised voice program at John Curtin College of the Arts, that music started to look like more than just a passion.

“That’s when I realised it could actually be a career,” she said.

She later studied at WAAPA, earning a diploma in contemporary performance. Being surrounded by other musicians helped her grow, not just technically, but creatively.

“I decided I wanted to use my voice not just as an instrument but as an artistic expression,” she said.

That vision became real in 2024 when she released her debut single ‘See Through’, a soulful reflection on identity and self-awareness. Written at 15, the song reveals what it means to stay true to yourself in a world that often pushes conformity.

It hit home, as ‘See Through’ was voted number 12 in the Fiery 50 radio competition, out of 500 artists. Navisha was also named WA state winner in the national Take the Mic Australia competition.

“Especially as a debut release, I was honoured and elated to have that recognition,” she said. “There’s so much work behind the scenes in music. To be acknowledged in that way felt incredibly rewarding.”

While building her music career, Navisha is also studying medicine. Yes, medicine.

“People say you can’t do it all, but I think that’s silly. Yes, you can,” she said.

According to her, the secret is consistency and passion.

“If I’m going to do something, I’ll do it with my full heart. That’s how I’ve made progress with everything so far.”

Despite the challenges of being an independent artist, especially in a small but competitive scene like Perth, Navisha remains grounded and driven. She sees music as more than entertainment. To her, it’s a way to make people feel seen.

“Even if a subject like heartbreak has been written about a million times, people still resonate with it. That’s the power of music.”

Her second single ‘Free’ dropped on July 24. She described it as a bold, upbeat neo-soul tune about inner conflict and self-confrontation, brought to life with the help of her dedicated band.

The launch show is set for August 29 at The Bird in Northbridge, and Navisha promises it will be unforgettable.

“Expect heartbreak ballads, dance tracks, everything. We’ve worked tirelessly on it and I cannot wait.”

She draws inspiration from artists like Beyoncé, Amy Winehouse and Doechii; women known for their authenticity and strength.

And her advice for other young people chasing big dreams?

“Be true to what you want. Don’t let fear or other people’s opinions hold you back. The only person stopping you is you. So just go for it.”