Interviews

Published on July 18th, 2022 | by MuzikScribe

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Nakkia Gold: Livin’ Out Loud

 

 

Let’s hop right into this latest single, which is a remix of “Low Profile” — Tell me about this particular track; how did it actually come to fruition?

The remix to “Low Profile” was something special that I wanted to give back to the community that embraced me at the beginning of my music journey. Being open as an LGBTQ artist and receiving so much support, I thought it would be a wonderful opportunity to put a little twist to the song in celebration of PRIDE month.

As a songwriter, when you sit down to pen your lyrics where do you draw your inspiration from?

When I sit down to write, I mainly draw my inspiration from my life experiences. This allows me to take everything in to speak my truth and connect with other people who have similar shared experiences.

What particular string of events led to your current signing to SABAN MUSIC GROUP?

My writing partner Jinxz and I were blessed with a great mentor, John Castillo. John allowed us to use his studio to make music. He later introduced us to a friend of his who watched our growth over time. Shortly after, Jinx and I found ourselves on a call with mega music executive Haim Saban and the team at Saban Music Group. At the time, I was only looking for a production deal. The label tasked Jinx and I to write a remix to Bob Marley’s iconic song “Get Up, Stand Up.” When I submitted the track with my vocals on it, Haim Saban was impressed and offered me an artist deal on the spot. They ended up keeping my vocals on the track. The rest is history. Nakkia Gold was born.

Reflecting, tell me your whole inception into music — When did you become interested in it? And, how did it all begin for Nikki Mason?

I fell in love with music around 4 years old. My mother knew I was a natural-born performer so she started getting me active in the arts at an early age, such as the drill team, dance, and gymnastics. I always had my heart in music, but I took it more seriously about five years ago. I shifted my focus and put my all into it. Nakia is my actual name. Nikki is my childhood name. Nakkia Gold is just an extended version of me, who I was afraid of for a while.

Now you’re a native of Los Angeles, CA, correct? So growing up in the ‘City of Angels,’ who all did / do you consider to be your strongest musical influences?

Growing up here in Los Angeles, I was influenced by a lot of musicians. To name just two, Dr.Dre and Snoop were played religiously in my house. I was the real music head in the house though so unlisted to everyone from Black Eyed Peas, The Weeknd, Nipsey Hussle, Jhene Aiko, Kendrick Lamar…just to name a few from the city. Their various styles and individual approach to music led me on the path I find myself on today. I am so lucky to have those influences!

In having said that, how do you classify your overall sound and / or style?

It’s challenging to categorize myself. I prefer to not wear or be associated with one particular sound or style. I like to dabble in Hip Hop, but I’m mainly R&B all day!

Where does your moniker, NAKKIA GOLD, originally derive from?

Nakia means Unconquered, Pure, and Faithful. It’s what I embody, so I had to stick with it. Gold is the color of my aura when I meditate so it just all made sense to me. NAKKIA Gold.

In light of (June having been) PRIDE Month, you also identify as a LGBTQ+ Artist — Can you please tell me exactly why it’s so important to label yourself as such?

I feel like it is very important to live out loud and not be afraid to be yourself. I want to show people that it’s OK to be who you are, no matter what. This was once only a dream for me until I started living my truth and being proud of it! It makes the road to that truth easier for others to follow when they see it out loud and in person.

Switching gears here…

To date, what has been your greatest career moment(s), at least thus far anyway?

My biggest career moment would have to be recording an entire project with 1500 or Nothin’. The experience itself was life-changing and taught me so much. It prepared me for what was ahead. They became more like family and helped me to find my authentic voice.

What’s an average day like for you?

I wake up around 6 or 7am and immediately hit the gym. Right after that, I go home, get dressed, and go straight to the studio. I am constantly creating, it’s an everyday thing for me and a big part of who I am. I’ve fully immersed myself in my music and overall career. It is what I love to do. I put in what I want out.

Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…

I interact and respond to fans whenever they approach me. I’m myself all the time. They love me and I love them. The support they give me allows me to pursue my craft and I love interacting with them whenever I can.

What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?

My favorite part is the writing process and performing. My least favorite is the process of releasing a song. A lot of us have great songs that never make it out to the public or sometimes it take forever to release music. Although this is my least favorite thing to do, it’s an absolute must in this line of work.

What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?

Never stop working toward your dream and never quit dreaming. Start making your dreams your reality and do more rather than just talking about them. Failure will be your best teacher and everything starts when you begin.

Lastly, what’s next for you, NAKKIA?

I will be releasing a few new singles and then a project. Expect to be hearing a lot more about me real soon!

Is there anything I left out, or just plain forgot to mention?

Stay on the lookout for new music and shows. Also, connect with me on all social media platforms [@NakkiaGold] to hear about my upcoming releases, shows, and events.


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