theaussieword.com special interview with Nick Pes.
How and where did it all begin for you? What drew your interest to the music industry?
My parents loved music, so there was always music playing in the house (loudly) and growing up my sister and I were always singing and writing songs. At first I would write songs for her to sing because I didn’t like the sound of my own voice, but eventually I came to appreciate it and I’ve been writing ever since.
What motivates or influences you in your quest to make great music?
Firstly I try to create something that I like the sound of, and then it’s about self expression.
What are your biggest goals you hope to accomplish as an artist?
I really hope to be able to keep writing and making music. There’s so much that is out of your control in this industry and it keeps shifting and changing. I’m a movie lover so I’d love to one day write the song for a movie soundtrack.
What can we expect from you in the coming months? Any plans to tour?
I have a number of new songs that are coming together – that will likely form an EP – and yes hopefully some live dates to follow!
Tell us a bit about your latest release and how would you best describe your music?
‘If It’s About Love’ my latest single, I think is the most honest, emotional song I’ve released. And it came after a period of my changes in my life. It was one of those songs that wrote itself really quickly – I had been finding it difficult to write music and this song came as a bit of a breakthrough where I was able to reconnect to whatever it is that allows me to create.
Give us an insight into your creative process. What gets you writing songs?
It happens a few different ways – sometimes it starts with a melody and a lyric that comes to me as I’m falling asleep, or on a walk. When that happens I always make sure to record a voice note on my phone to come back to. Other times i pick up my guitar. I’m a romantic at heart so it’s relationships (the ups and the downs) that typically compel me to write.
Is there a hidden meaning in any of your music?
I never try to hide anything deliberately, but sometimes I’ll write something and only later discover the meaning behind it.
Success, what is the secret to it?
To know what is important to you, understand why it’s important to you, and to go after what you want for yourself, and not for the validation of others.
What has been your biggest career highlight so far?
Biggest highlight was probably when channel V picked up the music video for my single California which I was particularly proud of because I also directed the video.
Which stars of the music industry do you find inspiring?
I’m really inspired by Robyn. I love her music, and the authenticity of her work. I saw her on her Honey tour earlier this year and it really was a spiritual experience (I might have cried).
Name a few of your favourite Australian artists.
When I was in high school I loved Magic Dirt, I would go to all of their gigs and I was obsessed with their Tough Love album. I really like JOY. – Tame Impala and Quails.
The shape of the music industry has changed significantly over the years, including the use of social media, how do you feel about the industry as a whole and what does it mean to you in getting your records out into the public eye?
I think a lot of musicians have a love hate relationship with social media. I try to balance my social media as part business and part personal – I think people want to know what kind of person you are – what your values are – and I think connecting with people that way can make them appreciate the art more.
Do you collaborate with others? Who is on your wish-list?
My long time collaborator is BARRETSO – who does often works with me on the production of my tracks. He’s got a great ear, sometimes I give him the vaguest of notes but he knows what to do with them. As a lover of pop music I’d be lying if I said I didn’t want to work with Max Martin.
A message for your fans. How do you best interact and respond with your fans?
I’m pretty active on social media so people can hit me up there!