We are thrilled to have the opportunity to interview Nicollette Sullivan, an indie musician whose journey and unique sound have captivated many. Growing up in a musical family, Nicollette was influenced by her parents’ involvement in the industry. Her passion for music started at a young age, writing songs on the playground and spending time in studios. Despite facing challenges and taking a brief hiatus, she rediscovered her love for music and has been dedicated to creating ever since.
From an early age, Nicollette was immersed in music, spending time in studios and even writing songs on her elementary school playground. However, like many artists, her path was not without its detours. She experienced a period where she lost focus, stepping away from her musical aspirations. Yet, her love for music was undeniable and eventually led her back to her true passion. This rediscovery of her musical calling has driven her to create and share her unique sound with the world.
Nicollette’s music stands out for its originality and depth. She draws inspiration from a wide range of personal experiences and diverse musical influences, from the timeless voices of Nina Simone and Billie Holiday to the pop icons of the ’90s and 2000s like Christina Aguilera and Mariah Carey, as well as contemporary artists such as H.E.R., SZA, and Ariana Grande. This eclectic mix of influences is seamlessly woven into her own distinctive style, setting her apart from other musicians.
Looking ahead, Nicollette aims to create more music and reach a broader audience. She hopes to monetize her content and make a living from her passion while remaining grateful for the opportunity to create and share her art. Her journey is a testament to her dedication, talent, and unwavering love for music.
Can you tell us about your journey as an indie musician? What inspired you to pursue a career in music?
I grew up around music, both of my parents were involved in music, so I was influenced heavily by them. I wanted to sing for as long as I can remember. I grew up in studios and writing songs on my elementary school playground. I lost focus for a few years but then rediscovered my love of music again later.
How would you describe your unique style and sound as an artist? What sets you apart from other musicians?
Every individual is unique in their own way. My music is uniquely me. My inspiration comes from me pulling from my own personal references and experiences and staying true to myself. I’m inspired by many different era’s and genres, from classic stuff like Nina Simone and Billie Holiday to 90’s/2000,’s like Christina and Mariah, to artists of today like H.E.R, SZA and Ariana, I think what’s makes me unique is how I pull from these diverse influences and somehow make it my own sound.
Could you share some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as an indie musician and how you overcame them?
For me it’s been sharing my work with the public. I make my music not thinking about how it will be received. It takes a lot of courage to put yourself out there and be so vulnerable. Also just from a marketing perspective, trying to gain an audience in an overly saturated market where music is being shoveled out daily and everyone is over saturated with content.
What is your creative process like? How do you approach songwriting and composing music?
It really changes from song to song. Sometimes I write alone and other times I collaborate. I will usually start with a melody focused on vibe and emotion. Afterwards I will pull things from my journal and use that to fill in the words. Then comes the fun part of layering harmonies etc. Other times it may start from a musical riff or chords one of my musicians comes up with, and I’ll see where I’m inspired to go based on the music.
Are there any particular themes or messages that you aim to convey through your music? What inspires your lyrics?
Usually, the themes in my music are ones I’m experiencing in my life, at the time. Thats why it’s so personal to me. I find it cathartic to turn my emotions into art.
What are your long-term goals as an indie musician? Where do you see yourself and your music in the next few years?
I hope to create more music and share it with more and more people. It would be great if i could monetize my content to where I could actually make a living off of it. Of course, I’m just appreciative for the opportunity to create music. There are so many people on this planet, just struggling to survive, I realize how blessed I am to have this opportunity
