Nelly Furtado, the Grammy-winning artist known for her eclectic music style, has recently opened up about how her ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) diagnosis. She's discussed how it has influenced her creative process, transforming what some might see as a challenge into a remarkable superpower.
In several interviews, Furtado candidly discusses her late diagnosis of ADHD and how it has shaped her approach to music. She shares that her ADHD often led her to juggle multiple creative projects simultaneously—a trait that might be overwhelming for some but has been instrumental in her prolific music production. "I can be like, OK — 500 songs, three rooms, 15 people making music with me today! And to me, it's like normal," the singer explained when talking about the creation of her latest album .
This whirlwind creative process allowed her to experiment freely and collaborate with numerous artists across different continents. Ultimately, she produced hundreds of songs from which she carefully selected the best ones for her album. Furtado describes this method as an organic process where the best ideas naturally rise to the top in a bustling, collaborative environment.
Furtado also sees her ADHD as a vital part of her identity as an artist. She reflects, "My ADHD doesn’t always allow for me to organise creations methodically... In the studio, my ADHD feels like a superpower." This perspective not only highlights the positive aspects of neurodiversity but also encourages others to embrace their unique traits and leverage them as strengths rather than viewing them as obstacles.
Nelly Furtado’s story is a powerful reminder of the potential of embracing neurodiversity. For her, ADHD is not a hindrance but a unique rhythm that fuels her creativity, allowing her to thrive in an industry that demands constant innovation and fresh ideas. By sharing her experiences, Furtado inspires others to see the beauty in their differences and to use their distinctive qualities as a source of strength and creativity.