After a wave of impressive releases over the last few years, Milan-born but LA-based artist NIKO is back with his latest dancefloor-filler 'Idol'.
Channelling the same Euro-pop sound he has cultivated throughout his career, 'Idol' sees him return in stellar form. Filled with bold and bouncing beats, catchy hooks, and his own insatiable demeanour at the helm, this new delight will have you dreaming of the summer sun in no time.
So with the new single available now, we sat down with him to find out more about his background and what has inspired him most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Most people don't realise it, but the voice is its own instrument - I treated it as such, and took a lot of vocal lessons to expand my talent and deepen my craft.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
Pop music was definitely my first love. I was (and still am) obsessed with Britney Spears, and listened to a lot of Madonna, Janet Jackson, and Craig David growing up.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Britney Spears "...Baby One More Time".
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
"Careless Whispers" by George Michael.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I don't have habits or rituals per se, and inspiration comes to me in many different ways. The writing process is a little mysterious each time! Sometimes there are topics that I want to talk about, so I would start by writing down lyric ideas, but other times it's the music that inspires me to come up with a theme or a concept for a song. At the end of the day, it comes down to telling a story or conveying an emotion.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I'm listening to an indie Swedish artist called Ingrid Witt, I think she's so great! And I am still not over Roisin Murphy's latest album, "Roisin Machine".
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
It would definitely be Lady Gaga.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Music is such a universal form of art, and people can experience it in so many ways. The most rewarding part is to see people enjoy and connect to your music.
And what is the most frustrating part?
The music business is tough. I am an independent artist, and that comes with its own set of challenges: I’m not only a songwriter, but I have to be my own label, manager, and more! It’s tiring and very hard at times, but I know I just keep on pushing, and being creative. Success and recognition will follow.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
To never stop creating.
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NIKO's new single 'Idol' is available to stream and download now. Have a listen to it in the player below.