Fia Nyxx – Gemini Ft. Taylor Xo [Interview]

Tell us a few things about your new song “Gemini “.

“Gemini” suggests the idea that everyone has an inner demon, a twisted side that they don’t want to face, toxic habits, negative thoughts… a spine chilling, yet alluring temptress of sorts. Sometimes it’s hard to fight off these monstrous versions of ourselves and they can consume you, can get the best of you. So the question becomes, will I give in or am I strong enough to resist? I have always been a big fan of scary movies and wanted to use this opportunity to really go there … I wanted to create my own terrifying version of a horror film/music video hybrid.

How would you describe your musical progress over the years?

I released my first album in 2018 and since the pandemic, I have been working in silence on a new album. “Gemini” is the third single from my upcoming album Red Umbrella, releasing early 202Since my recent single release of “Still Love You” just a few short months ago, I have gained over 20,000 monthly listeners and over 60,000 streams on Spotify. It’s surreal to see the music taking off in a way that I’ve been working so hard for, for so many years… and we’re just getting started. It’s my time and I’m claiming it.

What first got you into music?

I grew up as a dancer and always turned to music for every big (and small) life moment. Music is my worship, my gospel. If I am happy, I listen to music. If I am overwhelmed, I listen to music. When I am celebrating, morning, moving on, turning up … I turn to music. Comforted by my dad’s love of the Motown era and influenced by my mom’s 70’s rock vibe, I had an ever-evolving obsession with soul music, lyrical genius and emotion-evoking melodies! Now as a professional singer/songwriter/entertainer, I can honestly say that there is no greater joy, no better therapy, nothing that can make me feel more like myself, than making music!

What do you enjoy most? Writing music or performing your music live?

As much as I love the initial first session at my piano, closing my eyes and letting my fingers find their way across the keys, channeling the emotions I’m feeling, capturing the moment to translate it into song, and as much as I flourish at the studio, molding sounds and synths with my producer, bouncing bass lines off colorful harmonics, stepping into my greatest self, into such glorious moments, I have to say, I come alive on stage. There is something so intoxicating, so raw about having the entire room’s attention, using your platform to make everyone around you feel how you want them to feel. It’s empowering, it’s vulnerable, it’s exhilarating and it gives me purpose.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced as an artist so far?

To say that being an artist is “challenging” is the understatement of the year. Artists sacrifice everything they have for the dream. I was actually just talking with Taylor Xo, and real talk … we both have come to the realization that for so long we have sacrificed it all, without even a second thought, no hesitation. All our money, time, energy, self worth is and has been consumed and related to the success (or any lack of) ‘being an artist.’ As I grow in my artistry and purpose, my sense of self has expanded and I have learned how to be an artist without letting it consume my entire identity, allowing more room for love, family and honestly just having fun. Life is meant to be fun.

In which state of mind do you imagine people might listen to your music?

I love this question. I would hope that fans and loved ones turn to my music as often as they can, finding something for every mood, much like I do. I want my music to be “feel good,” empowering, hopeful when you’re down, and most of all, I want my music to always feel relatable and honest. I imagine that people hear themselves, their words, through my voice, and picture their own lives with images of their own stories flashing behind their eyes as they listen.

What is the most useless talent you have?

I can literally eat the hottest, spiciest food of anyone I know. If food doesn’t make me cry or make me have to sit in physical pain for at least a few minutes after, I’m not into it! HA! I put the El Yucateco XXXtra Hot Sauce on absolutely everything and still can’t get enough …I guess maybe this could be useful if I ever wanted to do some hot sauce food challenge, but until then. Lol!

Thank you!

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Fia Nyxx – Don’t Shame Me [Interview]

Describe your sound in 3 words

I would describe my sound as soulful, sultry and empowering

Tell us a few things about your new song “Don’t Shame Me”. What is the main idea behind it?

“Don’t Shame Me” is a pop-inspired, rhythm and blues anthem, declaring my power and asserting my strength as a woman and an artist. This song goes out to every woman (and man) whose ever been taken for granted, been made to feel inferior, or had their confidence shattered. “Don’t Shame Me” rebels in the face of anyone that’s made you feel like you’re not good enough. It’s time to stand up for ourselves; take that power stance!

For which lyric you are most proud of?

SamJGarfield and I had a blast working (and re-working) these assertive lyrics around intricate beats to evoke impacting reactions and really bring out a character that’s unapologetic and self-empowering. It’s so important to be your own hype man. We wanted to tell a story, keeping it real, a little campy, and most of all relatable. I am proud of the lyrics overall for their honesty and for their dynamic delivery, which, I believe, is what makes them so effective.

Artists and people who have influenced and inspired you?

I have always been inspired by powerful female vocals, innovative artists with an element of risk, and raw, gritty music from the motown era. One of my favorite artists, and a huge inspiration for this song, is Christina Aguilera. She’s a powerhouse and a fearless leader, with vocals and performance qualities that are untouchable. She’s played a big part in the artist I strive to be.

What would you change in the music industry?

I wish the music industry was less based on social media followers and engagement, and more based on talent and innovation. Social media is so ill-reflective of what’s really going on. It doesn’t show the moments of doubt, insecurity or countless rejections that even the most successful artists experience, therefore painting an unreal picture of what it’s really like to come up in this industry. Social media can be so taxing, harmful and exhausting, but it’s a game you have to play to get your music out there. I’ve always been an artist that prides myself on keeping it real with my fans

What is the best advice you’ve been given?

The best advice I’ve ever been given is to find happiness wherever you are in your life at that current moment. Recognize that you’re exactly where you are meant to be and embrace any aspect of that reality that makes you happy. Lately, I’ve realized I spend a lot of time thinking ahead… constantly working to reach that next level, achieve that next big step in my career, or in life in general.. And I forget to embrace the moment. Our lives are just a collection of moments and memories, and I choose to make as many of them as I can enjoyable!

What is the most trouble you’ve ever gotten into?

Any time I got in trouble it was usually involving cute boys. I remember in high school, the guy I was super into was known for being the ‘bad boy’ and was always finding his way into trouble. My parents, and most of the parents for that matter, knew he had a reputation and tried to forbid me from seeing him. (I hope he’s not reading this ha). One night I decided to sneak out and see him and just as it always did when he was around, trouble found us. To make a long story short, we ended up getting pulled over by a fake cop and held at gunpoint, when thankfully this maniac decided to let us go and get back in the car. We immediately drove off and called the real cops to report what had happened. Thankfully we were fine, and I snuck back into my house unnoticed. However, the next morning my parents saw everything on the news. I think I was grounded for about 6 months after that! Ha.

Thank you!

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