West Coast based singer/songwriter Nicky MacKenzie channels self-growth through songwriting by turning her thoughts into poetry and melodic stories that grab the ear.
Following in the stylistic footsteps of such evocative singers as Amy Winehouse, HER, Jorja Smith, and Lauryn Hill, her soothing, soulful vocals combined with poppy melodies always leave listeners in a trance. Originally from Salt Spring Island, 23-year-old Nicky went from playing, writing, and performing music at an early age to recording her upcoming sophomore album in LA. Nicky is homing in her craft and is ready to start wowing the world with her haunting voice and soulful melodies in 2024.
What first got you into music?
I was always singing and dancing as a child since as long as I can remember. I was obsessed with musicals and ballet and everything in between. We had a little music shop on Salt Spring where my stepdad taught jazz guitar lessons and I started experimenting with different instruments at an early age and piano was the real gateway drug for me. Growing up on old classics like mo-town I became obsessed with soulful songs and powerhouse vocalists. I started writing my own tunes around the age of 11, felt some sort of energetic click in my soul, and haven’t stopped since.
How would you describe your music?
It’s definitely in the realms of R&B and Pop. I enjoy writing songs that are catchy and hook the ear, but maybe have darker themes or stories that you have to listen closely to hear. I listen to all kinds of music but was raised on folk, jazz, and soul, and there are subtle flavours sprinkled throughout in my own writing.
What do you enjoy most about being an artist?
Being able to stand in a room full of people and play a song that you wrote based on a feeling that now the whole room has the potential to feel.
What is your creative process like?
It’s always different, it depends on the inspiration. Sometimes it starts with a melody, sometimes it starts with a chord progression or a couple of lyrics I write down in my phone. It always depends on the feeling.
Who would you most like to collaborate with?
It would be a dream of mine to collaborate with an artist like Labrinth, 070 Shake, or Kaytranada or The Neighbourhood. The whole world of dark pop really inspires me, and a big goal of mine is to create some sort of dance track that you could get down to but still has dark undertones and a catchy pop hook but still cathartic and well written lyrics. That’s one of my favourite styles of music.
In your opinion, how do artists in this industry stay on top of the game when faced with so much competition? What is the secret to making yourself noticed?
Everyone was raised different, thinks different, and dreams different. Everyone has something to bring to the table. Once you discover the value of your uniqueness and learn to love it, your creations start growing from pure originality. Don’t stop creating, write from any and every feeling, and don’t be hard on yourself.
Who are your main musical influences?
I grew up on a lot of mo-town, old classics like Sam Cooke, Etta James, Ella Fitzgerald, Amy Winehouse, a lot of powerhouse singers. My hometown was filled with jazz and folk music, and I have a deep gratitude for that foundation. I like to take pieces of old soul music and incorporate it into pop styled writing.
What is next for you?
I’m going to be releasing a lot of new music this year and am so insanely excited to show the world. I’ve spent a lot of time developing my artistry and the message I want to give to the world, and I cannot wait for everything to blossom. I just released a new song and will be announcing the next act very soon!
What is the most useless talent you have?
I’m actually probably a better whistler than I am a singer. I can also recite any episode of the office.
What would be a good theme song for your life?
I would have to choose Stayin Alive. By Bee Gees. Disco is the not so guilty guilty pleasure.
What makes you nostalgic?
Old favourite songs and smells… both can be absolutely haunting.
If you could change anything about yourself, what would it be?
My scoliosis.
What is your favourite board game?
Fun fact I actually hate board games. It’s probably my biggest red flag. My attention span fights for its life.
Website: www.nickymackenzie.ca
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