Next Wave: Sanura  

Read more about the sounds that inspire her, what she plans to bring into this New Year and some of her most impactful career highlights so far. 

Drawing inspiration from legends like Sade, Erykah Badu, and The Isley Brothers, Sanura’s music seamlessly blends sultry vibes with authentic storytelling. 

“My music is sexy and soulful, very much Sade…Erykah Badu vibes,” she explains. Shegoes on to share that her unique approach allows the rhythm and mood of the song to do most of the talking, gifting her fans (who know what to expect) with a sonic escape.

As a singer, songwriter, and producer, Sanura embraces evolution. Her journey began with the grassroots hustle of selling CDs and performing at local open mics. Today, she’s adapting to the digital era, connecting with fans through streaming and social media while staying true to her craft. 

“I’m a millennial so I come from the days where we literally had to be on the streets selling our CDs and going to every party and open mic night in the city to promote ourselves,” she explains. “The digital era, with streaming and social media, has definitely changed that.”

This month we embrace the New Year, which is all about reflection and intention. Sanura shared some things she’s bringing with her in 2025 and the things that are best left in the past. For Sanura, the New Year is a time to honor her journey while setting her sights higher.

“I’m bringing in the confidence I developed this year and leaving behind second-guessing my intuition,” she says amongst other things and people who are better left unnamed. 

When discussing some of her most monumental career highlights so far, Sanura shares that singing background vocals for the Stevie Wonder is top two and not two.  She credits the experience for shaping her understanding of artistry and performance. 

“Seeing everything that goes into being a legendary artist, songwriter and performer has helped shape my view on what it takes to build my own brand,” she adds.

Sanura is also focused on her continuous evolution. By dedicating time to her craft and constantly growing her skillset, she’s always open to leveling up. 

“I’ve been making music since I was a kid, and fortunately, I never lost that spark. I also allow myself to be creatively curious. when I wanted to learn how to produce, I did it,” she shared. “Hell, even when I wanted to learn how to paint, I did that too. And all the things I’ve ever been curious about made me even more creative, and less resistant to my evolution.”

The VA artist shares some especially inspiring advice to those who find her journey motivational. 

“I’m a strong believer in people walking their own path, and if watching me walk mine helps motivates somebody else to do their own thing too, then my main mission has been accomplished,” she shared.

Whether inspiring others to pursue their passions or sharing her creative interests, she encourages her community to embrace their individuality. “I believe the best help you can give people is to give them the strength to fully embrace who they are and find their path in this world,” Sanura adds.

Sanura’s personal formula to success has been transforming her trials into triumphs. She acknowledges that her perseverance and resilience in the industry is what has kept her moving closer to her dreams. 

“Never giving up on myself, not being afraid to fail, and being able to switch gears if things don’t go as planned,” Sanura shared of her personal formula to success. “I know a lot of artists who could’ve done more if only they would’ve stuck it out, so at the end of the day it just comes down to being able to continue on no matter what.”

Sanura is excited for the future. Though she spent awhile on the road for other artists in 2024, she looks forward to touring her own music and executing even more of her ideas in 2025 and beyond. 

The singer’s advice for artists looking to carve their own lane is honest and inspiring. 

“Dream as big as you can and do the things you’re passionate about,” Sanura tells us. “Expand your lore so you have wild, amazing and unbelievable stories to tell.” 

As 2025 unfolds, Sanura is ready to execute bold ideas and keep inspiring through her art. For Sanura, the New Year isn’t just about resolutions, but it’s about revolutionizing how she connects, creates, and evolves as an entertainer. 

Be sure to follow Sanura on her journey here.