A new single, a chance to participate in Eesti Laul, a singing competition that can take him to Eurovision… Hans Nayna’s year is off to a good start. Expat.com seizes this opportunity to kickstart our series on Mauritian artists with the singer-songwriter, author and singer of “Mo Lam” that you can discover below.
Music is an important part of your life today. Was it a conscious, well-thought choice, a deep-seated feeling, a desire to try something new or fluke?
A feeling that grew by chance and made me want to try it out. And then I made some carefully considered choices.
You're right now living in Estonia, how is that for you?
I can't complain. Fortunately, Estonia is roughly as populated as Mauritius. Thanks to good time management, the lockdown was not too bad. Right now, however, very strict measures are being put in place with a recent increase in the number of cases. However, I never thought I would complain about the lack of sun. But now, I do miss the light. Swimming at low temperatures is good for your health but dangerous for the heart. But Estonians are nature lovers and there is plenty of that in the country, so that's good!
Do you plan to settle there?
It is likely.
Tell us how your musical adventure started in Estonia.
I was on holiday when I got stuck here in March because of the COVID-19. I was able to perform a little and do a few private shows. My girlfriend, Merle, had a few contacts in this milieu and I quickly found myself working with two producers and sending three songs out for the Eesti Laul competition.
"One by one", one of these songs is a testament to hope. What can you tell us about this song?
This song is my first experience with pop music. And to be honest, it was inspired by the Eurovision itself. After browsing through past Eurovision songs and reading about the competition, I realised that the spirit of the competition was love and peace and I went along with that for “One by one”.
What is your wildest dream?
My utmost goal is to step it up and make it to the international scene. I am hoping to launch another three singles within the first six months of 2021 and an EP during the second half of the year. Right now, however, my short-term goal is to make it to the Eesti Laul's final in February.
Have you always lived in Mahebourg when you lived in Mauritius?
Most of my life has been spent in Mahebourg, indeed. A few months on the Central Plateau and the last three years in Pereybère.
Do you have passions other than music?
My girlfriend, sport and amateur graphics. I love using my phone to create my files, album covers and videos.
You used to want to become an airline pilot, what happened to this dream?
I think I idealized this job as a child. Being able to fly, travel and earn money, it was a dream. I've always loved airplanes and I love to travel. Music has also always been there but I never really understood the concept of a calling until I wrote and performed my first song in 2011. I was destined for something else.
Do you miss Mauritius? What in particular?
Yes, I miss Mauritius. My family, friends, concerts, dholl puris, the sun, the sea, the blue skies and Blue Bay.
The Eesti Laul semi-final is scheduled for the 18th of February. Are you apprehensive?
Yes, of course. It is a high level competition with singers who have already been to Eurovision. I think my being foreign is both an advantage and a disadvantage.
There are 24 semi-finalists, are you particularly impressed by any of them?
Koit Toome and Sissi.
Check out one of Mauritius' favorite songs called "Mo lam" below:
