Nelly Furtado recently shared how she was able to use her ADHD to her advantage while creating her seventh studio album, “7.” The singer explained that although ADHD can be debilitating in one’s personal life, it can be an asset in a creative environment. Furtado wanted to have a “festive process” while making the album, so she invited friends and collaborators to the studio at all hours of the night, allowing for a creative and spontaneous atmosphere. She worked on the record across multiple continents with various people, leading to collaborations like the lead single “Corazon” in Colombia with Bomba Estéreo.
The album features 14 tracks that Furtado selected from a pool of 400 to 500 songs she created over the past four years. She noted that her ADHD can make it challenging to organize her creations in a methodical way, but she was able to identify the songs that stood out to her. Furtado compared the process of choosing the songs for the album to picking favorite flowers, where a natural draw to certain pieces was present. The diversity of her creative process, combined with input from collaborators, helped select the tracks that she felt most passionate about.
Furtado first shared her ADHD diagnosis in 2023 in an interview with Fault Magazine, revealing that she had been diagnosed with inattentive ADHD about 18 months prior. She mentioned that playing instruments as a child helped keep her ADHD in check, and turning to dance and choreography later in life was a natural way to cope with the condition. Furtado expressed gratitude for being diagnosed later in life, as she felt more equipped to handle it in a mature and practical manner, focusing on finding solutions rather than dwelling on the emotional aspects.
Discussing the tie-in between her songs on the album, Furtado highlighted the intuitive nature of selecting tracks that resonated most with her. She noted that certain songs naturally rose to the top during the recording process, eliciting a sense of passion and connection that guided her choices. Furtado’s explanation of the selection process showcases the organic and instinctual approach she took in curating the album’s tracklist, emphasizing the importance of personal connection and emotional resonance in her creative work.
The collaborative nature of the album’s creation, with various individuals contributing to the music-making process, added depth and richness to Furtado’s work. By involving friends and collaborators from different regions, Furtado was able to infuse diverse influences into the album, resulting in a dynamic and eclectic collection of tracks. The global reach of her creative endeavors and the openness to working with a wide range of people reflected Furtado’s inclusive and innovative approach to music-making, contributing to the unique energy and vibrancy of the album.
As the release date for “7” approaches, Furtado’s reflections on her ADHD diagnosis and creative process offer insights into her journey as an artist. Embracing her condition as a superpower in the realm of creativity, Furtado has channeled her unique perspective and experiences into her music, resulting in a vibrant and multifaceted album. Through her openness to collaboration, her intuitive selection process, and her ability to navigate the challenges posed by ADHD, Furtado has crafted a work that showcases her artistic evolution and her dedication to creating music that resonates with audiences worldwide.
