Nadine Abs
In this interview, singer-songwriter Nadine Abs reflects on the heartfelt story behind “Caesar,” a moving tribute to her late school principal, whose guidance, wisdom, and belief in dreams continue to inspire her music and life journey.
1. “Caesar” is a deeply personal tribute to your late school principal. What emotions did you experience while turning his remarkable life story and influence into a song?
Pure love, gratitude, and a sense of blessing are some of the emotions I felt while writing “Caesar”. Nobody believed in our dreams as much as my late school principal. His speeches in the school playground ring vivid memories in my mind. If it weren’t for him, I wouldn’t be as determined and resilient as I am today. God bless the great Caesar!
2. Your principal’s motto, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way,” plays a central role in this release. How has that philosophy shaped your journey as an artist from Beirut to London?
I had this dream, this vision to become a singer. The idea of travelling struck my mind while I was still at school. Leaving my home city of Beirut to London was a huge step, but it was necessary! Caesar taught his students to follow their dreams, no matter how hard it was to fulfill them. A life with no aspirations was a life with no worth, according to my late principal.
3. The song blends classical instrumentation with contemporary pop elements. Why was it important to honour Caesar’s love of classical music through this unique musical approach?
The song is in Caesar’s honor, so it made sense that I included classical instrumentation in the track! I happen to love classical music as well. I decided to record a song with a strong classical theme, and a modern pop sound. I think it’s absolutely beautiful and unique to blend classical music with pop.
4. You mentioned having a dream in which Caesar told you to write a song about him. How did that experience inspire the creative direction and message of the track?
This dream of seeing Caesar holds a spiritual meaning. Some of our dreams are visions. He told me to write a song about him, as he deserved to be attributed! I knew I had to write a poetic song about Caesar, and sing it with grace. I hope I’ve done him justice!
5. Working with Johnny Zanchetta, Will Clemens, Izzy Howard, and Jay Jacobs brought together a talented team. How did each contributor help bring your vision for “Caesar” to life?
The team that I worked with was professional, in every sense of the term. Johnny Zanchetta is, in my opinion, the best songwriter in the world. When he composes melodies, he does that with a touch of magic! He lives in Brazil, but we met when he was in London. I personally wouldn’t trade him for any other songwriter. While I write the lyrics, he writes the melodies. As for Will and Jay, they, together, produced the instrumental track for “Caesar” at the recording studio. Will was the pianist, and Jay was the sound engineer. Izzy played the violin to the track, to give it more flavor!
6. Beyond being a tribute to one individual, what do you hope listeners take away from “Caesar” about the impact a teacher, mentor, or role model can have on someone’s life?
Oh, I love to connect with listeners! That is why I do music. I love to touch people’s souls. I am a very emotional person, and I try to depict that in my songs. I sincerely hope listeners can find joy in remembering their role models. After all, we all have at least one loved one, one mentor we look up to. The right educators can help mould young generations into successful people in society. As for Caesar, he was more than a teacher and a school headmaster, he was a leader. God bless all our role models!