Co-written/produced by electro-rock artist Radio Wolf and legendary songwriter Ricky Wilde, ‘Gold Heart’ guides us through ethereal clouds, rays of light, and the hope for a better tomorrow. This dreamy love ballad explores a more tender and emotionally warm sound (after ‘Carnival Night’; also produced by Radio Wolf), as NINA introduces slide guitar, airy synth pads and harp with her voice taking center stage. She sings with an open-hearted intimacy, augmented by rich, sonic swirls of instrumentation, drawing the listener in.
NINA’s first album ‘Sleepwalking’ was praised by critics and ‘Synthwave’ / ‘Retrowave’ aficionados, earning her the affectionate nickname, “The Queen Of Synthwave”. Her hit single ‘My Mistake’ was used for a Mercedes Benz TV advert, which aired across Europe and was also featured in Hugo Boss and Adidas adverts, gaining her a spot in the Shazam Charts at #6. NINA’s second album ‘Synthian’ jumped to #1 on the Electronic Album Charts on iTunes in Canada while her third album ‘Control (feat. LAU)’ was released as an EP via Lakeshore Records and features samples from Cliff Martinez’ ‘Drive’ film score.
Tell us about the genesis of your project. How did you get to where you are now?
I’ve been active as NINA for about 10 years. Things really took off for me around 2016 with my single “Beyond Memory” being heavily embraced by the Synthwave scene.
Since then I’ve met lots of great artists who have contributed to my experience.
My sound is usually heavily influenced by electronic and pop music rooted in the 80’s but recently I’ve started going further back and getting much more experimental. With my new singles “Carnival Night” and “Gold Heart” I’ve embraced genres such as Rock, Country and various modern electronic soundtracks. I’m trying to be more daring.
What is the favorite song you wrote and why?
I don’t know if I’ll ever truly have a favourite, as they’re all my babies. Ultimately I love them equally but at times I do favour certain songs depending on my mood. “The Distance”, “Carnival Night” and “Gold Heart” are particularly special to me at this time, because they each have a unique way of lifting my spirits. “The Distance” was written as I was falling in love, “Carnival Night” helps me surrender to my wild side and “Gold Heart” has a beautiful story behind it, which my co-writer and friend Ricky Wilde brought to me.
Who are your all time musical icons?
Queen, The Doors, Kim Wilde, Robyn, Kraftwerk.
What are some things to do to keep your inspiration alive?
I love old horror movies, nostalgic songs, pumping electronic music and epic film scores.
Who are you binge listening to these days?
Desire, The Raveonettes, Dum Dum Girls, Juno Francis, Electric Youth, Kid Moxie, Bat For Lashes, Jorja Chalmers.
Favorite movie or TV show?
Movie: “Contact” or “Back To The Future”
TV Show: “Twin Peaks” or “Curb Your Enthusiasm”
Tell us about your latest release and how it came about
The song was brought to me by Ricky Wilde, who I have been recently writing with. After playing around with Ricky’s original version, I asked Radio Wolf to join us on production duties as I loved what he did with “Carnival Night”. This new sound we have created is pretty different from my previous work, as we mix country, rock, new wave and synth pop together.
Do you have any peculiar pre or post show rituals?
I drink Whiskey, hold my favourite moonstone and make wishes for the night.
What’s the future looking like for you?
I have a new single coming out called “I’ll Wait”, which is the theme song for the upcoming horror film “There Is No Such Thing As Vampires”. The new year will be filled with work on my new album, as well as collaborations with Kid Moxie and Radio Wolf.
Who inspires your style and aesthetics?
Debbie Harry, Kim Wilde, NENA, Robyn, Roxette and Mazzy Star.
What is the achievement or moment in your career you are the most proud of and why?
There isn’t really a single moment, more like a realisation of all the things that I have experienced. Being able to tour worldwide, connect with fans and collaborate with unique artists and producers I’ve met over the years.
What do you think is the best way to make it as an artist nowadays?
Stay true to yourself and never give up.
What would you change in the music and entertainment industry especially after this past year?
My focus is to grow as an artist and learn from experience to write better songs.
