Our interview with British born pop artist and model Nick Hissom, better known for his magnetic track, “Killin’ Tonight” that he co-wrote with DJ Duo Manufactured Superstars and his hit track “One” that he debuted at the Malibu Mansion alongside Nick Jonas, Tori Kelly and Fallout Boy last fall, Nick is a force to be reckoned with! After this success, Nick secured a Las Vegas residency at the exclusive XS Las Vegas.
Hi Nick, please tell us a little about you?
Hi! I’m Nick and I’m a singer from London. I’m a creative at heart, I love dogs, and I’m also a big people person!
When did you start, and when did you knew this was the professional life for you?
I’ve been writing songs since I can remember, but I started thinking of music professionally when I started college in Philadelphia. It took me a few years of writing before I was able to get into a real studio, and then a few more years in the studio before I was able to release music and become a real artist! It’s been a long process, and an incredible journey.
What kind of music did you grow up with?
A lot of my favorite music comes from my childhood; Michael Jackson, songs from Disney movies, Enrique Iglesias, Justin Timberlake – these were just a few of my favorite artists, many of which are my biggest inspirations to date.
Who was your music inspiration at that moment, and who is now?
A lot of my inspiration comes from memories that I attach to songs and artists. Feel-good songs are inspired by artists like the Black Eyed Peas, or David Guetta. A lot of the cool factor is derived from artists like Enrique and Justin; while a lot of the musical arrangement and rhythm I draw from legendary producers like David Foster, Michael Jackson, Steve Morales etc.
What kind of music do you listen on daily basis?
I generally listen to a mix of everything. Top40 is always great, hip hop is massive, and then there’s a wide range of very soulful and musically sophisticated artists around too (Adele, 21 Pilots, One Republic etc.) When listening to music, I pick the songs based off however I’m feeling in that moment – or based off how I want the music to make me feel.
On your point of view, how is the music scene right now?
The music scene right now is very rhythmic. Hip hop and trap have totally taken over; pop has become hip hop, dance has become trap, and then there’s been a huge influx of indie artists to the mainstream scene – which is something we’ve rarely seen before. So it’s a very diverse and exciting time in music! I’m happy to be a part of it!
What is next for you?
I’m working on getting everybody I can to hear the music! As well as preparing for a big tour in the fall opening for one of my favorite artists, I can’t say who yet, but I can say I’m very excited! I’ve been working on music for 6 years now, so to see everyone loving the music after all this time is an unforgettable experience and I’m so grateful for it.
Who is your favorite DJ?
David Guetta. His music always makes you happy. That’s the point of music, to create joy, to create emotion, and David does that very well. That’s why I named my EP Love Energy, because it’s all about the music creating happiness and being an inspiration for others.
Tell us about “Love Energy”?
‘Love Energy’ is my first ever EP and it’s very true to it’s name as it’s all about love and inspiration, for others, for yourself, for everyone. It’s a very positive message, and something I feel people are really connecting to – I believe that the more love you have in your life the happier you are, so this is me giving a part of that love to people through music.
And now about your hit song “Where You Are”?
It’s very exciting! It’s only been out for a month and it’s already on the radio and getting a bunch of requests! To have worked so hard on something and then see that people are loving it and connecting to the message is so inspiring! It’s why I do what I do! ‘Where You Are’ is all about feeling appreciated for who you are, no matter where you are.
How would you describe your style?
My style is very casual and comfortable. I generally wear jeans, well-fitted T-shirts, with a simple chain or trucker hat. I change up my style all the time though, I think it’s important to never stay the same.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
Love, Energy, Music
How’s your typical day?
I like to spend most of my day focused on one thing; whether that’s recording, phone calls, meetings or press, performances, or chilling. By focusing on one thing each day it allows me to totally immerse myself in it. Today and tomorrow I’ll be in the studio recording an acoustic cover of ‘Where You Are’!
Best advice ever given?
Be yourself!
What do you do in your free time?
I normally hang out at home, eat cereal, run around my house naked, watch Game of Thrones, listen to music, chill… You know, the usual stuff
Any tips that you can give to up-coming talent?
Be yourself! You can never be better at being Beyoncé than Beyoncé (or any other artist). So if you want to have a real career, you have to focus on your own artistry, while still remaining open to inspiration. Learn as much as you can about music, and learn as much as you can about people.
What do you like to watch on tv?
You can probably guess… Game of Thrones haha!
Do you support any charity?
Yes. I’m big into education, cancer research, and animal rights. I also support local charities in Las Vegas and Los Angeles that help homeless youth.
Where we can follow you?
@NickHissom on everything! Instagram / Twitter / Facebook
Favorite food: Pasta Bolognese
Travel destination: Nassau, Bahamas
Celebrity Crush: Ariana Grande
Restaurant: Sinatra at Wynn Las Vegas
Actor/Actress: Angelina Jolie
Quote: “it won’t be easy, but it will be worth it”
Book: Eragon (Inheritance Cycle)
Movie: Lord of the Rings (all of them)
Drink: Gin and Tonic
Festival: Electric Zoo New York
