Interview and Photos by Jordan Edwards

In June, Naomi Sharon released her sophomore album No Sleep in Paradise. Songs like “Miss That” and “Pink City” present a sound that’s both classic and futuristic. It’s the perfect thing to listen to on a late night drive through Miami Beach.

Born and raised in the Netherlands, Naomi grew up listening to an eclectic mix of artists and styles. Soon after appearing on the Dutch version of The Voice, her career began to take off. It wasn’t long before her talent caught the attention of Drake, and she became part of the OVO roster. Her debut album for the label, Obsidian, dropped in 2023.

No Sleep in Paradise represents not just a new album, but a new chapter in her life. The singer-songwriter recently moved to Los Angeles, where she hopes to ride the momentum she has created.

To celebrate the release, we talked to Naomi Sharon about her career so far and the music that inspires her sound.

Thank you for inviting us into your home. What’s been the best part and worst part about moving to the US?
The best part has been being closer to the people I create with. So much of my music comes from spontaneous moments in the studio, and living here has made that part of my life feel really natural. It’s also exciting to be in an environment where there’s so much happening creatively. The hardest part is definitely being away from my family and friends in the Netherlands. You realize how much you value those everyday moments once you’re on the other side of the world.

You just released your second album No Sleep In Paradise. How would you compare recording it to making your debut album Obsidian?
I see them as two different chapters of the same story. Obsidian reflects who I was at that point in my life, and I’m still incredibly proud of it. No Sleep In Paradise comes from a different place. I’ve grown, I’ve lived more, and I’ve become even more intentional about the music I want to make. The biggest difference wasn’t finding myself, because I already knew who I was. It was having the confidence and experience to push my vision even further. This album feels bigger, more expansive, and closer to the kind of timeless pop music I’ve always wanted to create.

Do you have a favorite song from the new album?
It changes all the time, but right now I’d say “Better Days.” It captures everything I wanted this album to be. It’s emotional, uplifting, and feels like a step into the artist I’m becoming. It’s one of those songs that reminds me why I make music.

Overall, the album reminds me of modern Anita Baker. The music is fresh, but the vocals are smooth and timeless. Why is 80s/90s R&B such a big influence for you?
First of all, that’s a huge compliment. I think what people are hearing isn’t necessarily me trying to recreate that era, but my love for timeless songwriting and expressive vocals. Those qualities exist across generations. My goal has always been to make contemporary pop music that carries the same emotional depth and longevity while still feeling fresh and current.

What’s been your most memorable live performance so far?
There have been so many special moments, but playing my own headline shows has been incredible because those rooms are filled with people who know every word. Seeing people connect with songs that started as such personal moments in the studio is something I’ll never take for granted. I’m excited to bring this new album to even bigger stages.

What do you miss most about the Netherlands?
Definitely my family and friends. And honestly, just the feeling of home. There’s something really comforting about being somewhere familiar. I also miss Dutch snacks more than I’d like to admit.

Who have you been listening to lately?
It’s a mix of everything. I always find myself coming back to artists like Celine Dion, Cher, Tracy Chapman, and Phil Collins. They’re all incredible storytellers who make music that stands the test of time. I’m also inspired by artists who continue to push pop forward today. I like listening across genres because you never know where the next idea is going to come from.