NYA – Closer Than Close

By starrymag | August 25, 2022

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound? 

A) I think my sound continues to evolve and morph as I grow as an artist, but currently, I would describe it as pop with a sprinkle of alternative and a soul root. Some bit of soul is always present in my music because it’s foundational to how and why I learned to sing. Additionally, I always want my music to be as authentic and vulnerable as possible, even when it has a more light-hearted feel like “Closer Than Close.”

 

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

A) There are certain artists I am continually inspired by, some of whom have had a foundational influence on my writing and singing style. From Frank Sinatra, my first musical love, to the Eagles, my father’s favorite band, to Anderson. Paak or the Internet, exceptional genre-bending artists. Some of my top favorite singers are Sarah Vaughan and Anita Baker. And I love the songwriting of Carole King, Joni Mitchell, Amy Winehouse and Sting. These are the artists that are always on repeat.

 

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Closer Than Close.”

A) “Closer Than Close” was truly a collaborative effort. I was co-writing with Midian, a talented songwriter when she brought “Closer Than Close” to me. She had collaborated with a group of gifted creatives, including Stacy Barthe and Dwayne Dialo, to dream up this wonderful song. When she played it for me, I connected to the meaning and feel of it, so I wrote the bridge and recorded it. I usually write the majority of my songs, but I fell in love with “CTC” the first time I heard it. About half the year I’m away from my now husband for work and “Closer Than Close” is reminiscent of our relationship for me. “Closer Than Close” is all about a healthy and beautiful kind of love. One of my favorite lyrics in the song is “he knows I love me; he loves me for that.” It’s about loving that person who empowers you to be your best and feels like home. Brian Kennedy then polished and finished the production for the metaphorical cherry on top!

 

Q) “Closer Than Close” debuted on Sirius/XM’s “Train Tracks.” What do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?

A) “Closer Than Close” has this warm nostalgia about it, and at its heart is a beautiful sentiment. The song’s metaphorical backbone is a super cool groove that makes it an easy listen in the best way. At least that is what resonates with me about “Closer Than Close.”

 

Q) How does the video for the track play into the message behind it?

A) My goal for any accompanying visual content to my songs is to add another perspective or dimension to the story being told lyrically. Ayakashi brought a beautiful presentation of multiple interpretations of the love story in “Closer Than Close” using an art form and style not usually paired with my work. I felt it was a refreshing choice for this single and a cool way to mix things up a bit!

 

Q) What is your songwriting process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?

A) Honestly, my writing process can often take different forms based on the preferred methods of my collaborators. I can start with lyrics beforehand because my love affair with poetry and words preceded my musical education and exploration, but I don’t have to. I want to stay open and flexible to explore different creative processes to expand myself artistically. However, one thing remains central; I need a feeling, a mood, to build on. This feeling can start with lyrics or come from the vibe of a composition/track. It can originate from where I am at that moment in my life. But wherever that feeling comes from, it’s a vital part of my creative process; it gives me direction.

 

Q) Brian Kennedy lent a hand with the production on “Closer Than Close,” but how much of a hand do you have in the production of your music?

A) My influence on production mainly occurs in two parts of the songwriting process. Usually before I begin working with a new producer, we discuss in detail what is inspiring me and the overall direction I want to move towards. Ideally, the producer takes that direction and runs with it, creating something fresh. Then, I write melodies (and lyrics) over the composition or track, creating a structure from which the producer can build upon and embellish. When the producer delivers that initial track/composition, it often serves as the musical base or song sketch. Once the song is fully written, the producer can truly drill in and bring it to life. In this way, I have a hand in production. Occasionally I will hear specific drums or sounds that I feel strongly enough about to share with a producer. Still, I try to allow any producer I work with the room to follow their instincts to add a sonic perspective I may not have expected or imagined. I love when multiple creative voices and perspectives combine to make something cool and unique.

 

Q) Will there be a full album or EP coming in the near future?

A) I have a new single, “Mother’s Daughter,” that comes out on August 25th. “Mother’s Daughter” is the first single on an EP named Side Effects, my most vulnerable body of work to date. So, I am super excited and slightly scared to finally share it! I am also finishing up my first LP, which will likely be released mid-next year.

 

Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you?

A) My favorite place to perform is, first and foremost, the studio. There is this magical moment when you are recording and you know you just nailed the take; you have a little piece of this sublime feeling memorialized in the final vocal. I also love small kitschy venues, especially in New York City. I love the odd intimacy and comforting nostalgia of performing in that setting.

 

Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

A) My absolute dream collaboration is with two people rather than one, Mark Ronson and Questlove. There aren’t that many people I would fangirl over, but they are in that group. I genuinely admire their work and the breadth of their musical knowledge.

 

Q) What album/band are you currently listening to and why do you dig them? 

A) Speaking of Mark Ronson and Questlove, I’ve had Yebba’s live recordings at Electric Lady Studios on repeat. I love how she uses her voice like an instrument; in that way, so many great vocalists do. The arrangements feel expansive and cinematic. It takes you somewhere.

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?

A) Being an artist in the digital age is both exciting and stressful. On the positive side, social media allows independent artists, especially the opportunity to connect with more people than ever. It gives you control over your own narratives, allowing for greater authenticity. To me, being an artist is all about inspiring feelings in people and helping people feel a genuine connection. Music has this unique way of reminding people of emotions and experiences that unify rather than divide; it can make you feel less alone in an often lonely world. Social media allows you a direct line of communication with your audience, amplifying music’s connective nature.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

A) Thank you! It’s simple, but I mean it. Trying to build a career in music is a challenge that can often feel overwhelming and lonely. I am so grateful to everyone who takes the time to listen to my music, let alone champion it! I hope my music can be there for people when they need it. I want to give voice to the feelings and experiences, joyous and painful; we so often can’t give voice to ourselves, at least not out loud. Music has always been there for me when I was struggling or felt alone; I hope I can create work that is a haven for someone else.