Inspired #349 - Kristina Nichol
Influenced by artists like JP Saxe, Julia Michaels and Sigrid, Canadian singer-songwriter Kristina Nichol channels an honest, intimate and emotionally-charged singer-songwriter pop sound on current single, ‘It’s Not Easy’. Initially pairing an evocative stripped piano melody and atmospheric vocals, ‘It’s Not You’ transitions into a swelling, cinematic sound. Kristina took a moment to talk to us about some of her current inspirations.
Who are your top three musical inspirations and why?
JP Saxe, Julia Michaels, and Imogen Heap. For both JP Saxe and Julia Michaels, their writing is so conversational that it makes me wish I would have thought of it myself. I get emotional listening to specific songs, simply because of the honesty in their voice or how relatable the lyrics are.
Imogen Heap not only transformed the way music was produced, but she really paved a way for artists like myself to create from the comfort of your own home and think outside the box. Her song ‘Hide & Seek’ changed the way I hear music.
Is there a certain film that inspires you and why?
A film called Once. It’s so low budget but the simplicity in the writing and the connection between the two main characters makes me want to go sit at a piano somewhere random and write music.
What city do you find the most inspiring and why?
I recently visited Nashville for the first time. I was so inspired by the “small town feel”. Everybody knows everybody and they live for music! Songwriting isn’t just a hobby for them, it’s a culture and I hope one day I can be a part of something like that.
Who is the most inspiring person to you and why?
My father. He is the most hardworking person I know. It took me years to realise it, but your dreams aren’t going to happen all by themselves. He has taught me through his own life experience how to work every single day for the things you believe for.
What were your inspirations when writing ’It’s Not Easy’?
I have always struggled with finding the right words to say. Especially given everything we’ve had to face this past year and a half. Like many people, it’s not easy to speak up in a world that feels very divided, and it’s easier to back down or wait for someone else to say it. I want my music to mean something, so writing this song was a way to remind myself (as well as others) that you shouldn’t have compromise who you are to make a difference.
How would you like to inspire people?
I want to inspire people to be better versions of themselves. Maybe through my story, they will feel less alone and connected somehow. That’s what music is all about!
Interview by Karla Harris