Meet Jonah Nash | Singer-Songwriter, Actor, Dancer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jonah Nash and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jonah, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I truly feel that when something so deep is placed inside your heart, you have no choice but to follow it. I dropped out of college halfway through my junior year. By this time, I had made my professional debut performing in Tokyo, Japan at 19 along with other amazing opportunities. I felt a sense of momentum in my career and my only obstacle at the time was attending school.

I knew I was in need of a change; I could feel myself outgrow the environment I was once so comfortable in. I never thought I would leave, considering how much I loved my time in college. There was a new path I had to walk alone, leaving behind the fixed plan I had for myself. To receive my degree, move to New York City, plants my roots and work my way up in my field.

I remember having this gut feeling about leaving school and seeing where my career would take me. A year later, I’m living out the dreams only my younger self could imagine. Travelling to places and meeting people from all kinds of backgrounds. I can proudly say it was the best decision for me and I thank God for planting that seed.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Kicking off my career in musical theatre has been a blessing! It has gifted me with nothing but opportunity at such a young age. Performing in the international tour of A Chorus Line (Japan), staged readings, regional credits, and now on the North American tour of Mean Girls!

After working in the theatre industry for the past few years, I’m currently building focus on my own original music as well. I’ve realized that all of my dreams can coexist with one another. I look forward to expanding my artistry in a different medium. Currently working on releasing some original music under my artist persona, “YUNUS” later this year. Very excited to rebrand and rediscover this facet of my work.

I’d describe my own music as an in-depth expedition of truth, self-love and free thinking. Exploring and digging up what we don’t share with one another. The hope to achieve vulnerability within the unlocked space permitted by the listener. Influenced by the alternative R&B and Neo-Soul artists that have come before me.

What sets me apart from others has always been the belief in the things I can accomplish. I grew up knowing that I needed to make something extraordinary of myself as a love letter to my parents sacrifices. Being encouraged for my originality showed me how to value the most important parts of myself.

Getting where I am today wasn’t easy in the slightest. My faith and the need to be a living testimony for someone else pushed me to grow within my spiritual maturity. Trusting that God truly is in control in every circumstance.

My advice to anyone with a dream:
Life doesn’t happen to you; it happens for you. So continue to fight for the life you are destined to have if God has placed it in your heart.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I highly recommend getting your grub on at Slutty Vegan in Edgewood. Then, I would shop at Vintage Mama and Psycho Sisters for some vintage shopping, then make your way to the Alliance Theatre for an evening show to end the day.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First and foremost, I give all the thanks and glory to God for the spiritual relationship we share. The journey to success I’ve been on is shared with my family Team Nash. Through the ups and downs of life, they hold so dear to my heart. The constant sacrifice, the nights of helping me film auditions, to never letting me go a day without feeling loved and supported. They are the only group of people that will fully understand what it took to get to this point in my life and for that I’m eternally grateful.

Website: https://www.jonahnash.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonahrnash/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkyfvFMQFCNAYOD8TElKegw

Image Credits
Grace Copeland John J. LaRosa