Brooklyn native makes waves in Binghamton music scene

(Binghamton N.Y.) While the Binghamton music scene is mostly made up of hip-hop artists, one R&B singer’s presence is undeniable in the 607 area. Nathandria Watkins, also known by her stage name “Nay Slay”, is originally from Flatbush in Brooklyn, New York, but moved to the area 9 years ago to provide a better life for her children. 

“I wanted to raise my kids in a different environment- give them a chance at better opportunities,” Watkins said.

Watkins acknowledges Brooklyn will always be home, but says Binghamton has been instrumental to her music career. 

“When I started doing music, it was Binghamton that I did my first performance,” Watkins said. “In Binghamton that I wrote and released my first real record. Binghamton has shown out for me since day one.“

Nay Slay took home the first Performing Arts award at Binghamton’s inaugural Black Excellence Awards in the summer of 2022. 

When asked how the stage name “Nay Slay” came about, Watkins says she has Beyonce’ to thank for that. 

“I have always gone by “Nay”, but then in 2016 Beyonce’s song “Formation” was playing and my friend said to me I slay everything I do (Nay Slay),” Watkins said.

As much as the Brooklyn native enjoys chasing her dreams as a musician, Watkins admits there are times she feels like giving up. She credits her children as the reason she keeps going. 

“I am going to use my love of music and my gift to make sure my babies are taken care of for the rest of their lives,” Watkins said. 

Ten years from now, Watkins said she intends to be a household name, well-established in the industry, with more awards under her belt. She also hopes her business “SLAYZ entertainment”, where she provides high-quality music entertainment at a variety of events, will be thriving in a physical location. 

To follow Nay Slay’s road to success and support her music, join her other 4,000+ followers on Facebook and Instagram.