MEET NICKI WALTERS
This week I had the pleasure of getting to know Nicki Walters, an alternative folk artist in Denver. Nicki is also part of Corsicana, and has started a duo project with Nick Schell under the name ‘th.em.’
Are you from Colorado originally, and if not, what brought you here?
I have lived in Illinois all my life and moved here in 2019 to get a degree in music at CU Denver.
What inspires and motivates you to make music?
I think what inspires me the most is the response I have gotten from listeners. Over the past year I have become a little too honest in my music, but am realizing that’s what people want to hear. I love when others can connect and feel from what I’m saying. One memory that has stayed with me was at a Sofar Sounds show. Someone came up to me and said she counsels LGTBQ+ child and wanted to share my music with them. This really made me realize that what I’m doing does have an impact on people and that it is something I need to continue.
What’s been on constant repeat for you lately?
The artists I keep on constant repeat are Radiohead, The Smile, Bon Iver, boygenius, brakence, and Ryan Beatty.
What can you tell us a little bit about the new single?
The new song is called “hinge” (yes the dating app). I kind of just wrote it on a whim because dating apps suck and I have a lot of frustration towards them. I think it’s something a lot of people can relate to. I didn’t think it would be a song I would release, but I started producing it and loved the way it was sounding so I was like why not.
What’s your typical writing process like?
Almost always, the chords come before the lyrics. I’ll normally just be fiddling around and find something I like and the lyrics either come out right away, or they take an absurd amount of time to discover.
What has been the biggest challenge for you as an artist, and to counter that, what’s been your greatest accomplishment?
My biggest challenge as an artist I think goes to my mental health. I have had a lot of doubts about myself and if I am good enough to be doing music. I’ve also struggled with anxiety and depression for a big chunk of my life. The music industry is harsh and can be really overwhelming to be part of and sometimes I get too in my head about it.
My biggest accomplishments have been hearing my songs on the radio, joining Corsicana and being on tour, being on the Bops & Bangers podcast presented by GrrrlMusic, becoming my own producer, and releasing an EP. It’s been a wonderful ride so far and I can’t wait to see where things will go next!
What are your plans for 2024?
At the moment I just want to put as much music out as I can and play a bunch of shows. Nick and I are planning a small tour during the summer which I am super excited about!
What are your thoughts on Denver’s music scene and community?
I love the music scene. Everyone is so supportive of each other and the music here is so GOOD. There are so many local artists I fangirl about on the daily. I feel so lucky to be part of such a great community and environment.
Do you remember your very first gig? How old were you, and is there anything super memorable about the experience?
My first gig was when I was 12 at a local bar in Illinois called “Brasky’s.” I used to get so nervous before playing gigs that I was physically ill, but once I got up there everything felt right. I did a lot of farmers market gigs and again I think it was just the response I got that made me realize this is what I am meant to be doing.
Where can we learn more about you?
https://nickiwalters.com
https://linktr.ee/nicki_walters
