How would you describe the music that you typically create?
The music I create is a blend of emotions and energy, often rooted in uplifting pop-funk vibes with a personal touch. I love exploring themes of self-discovery, empowerment, and freedom, drawing inspiration from my own journey. It’s important to me that my songs connect deeply with listeners, making them feel seen, understood, or even inspired to dance in the street. I aim to create music that feels like a celebration of life’s highs and a companion through its lows.
Are there any unique stories about how new fans have discovered your music?
There have been some really heartwarming moments where fans have discovered my music in ways that felt so personal. One that stands out to me was after a live show where I performed my songs. A woman came up to me afterward and started saying phrases from my lyrics back to me. It was such a special moment because it showed me that the words I wrote truly resonated with her. Knowing that my music can touch someone that deeply is one of the most amazing feelings as an artist.
Is there a city or venue that holds special significance to you, and can you share a memorable experience from there?
One city that holds a special place in my heart is New York, especially performing at Rockwood Music Hall. It’s such an intimate venue, and there’s this raw energy that makes every moment on stage feel personal and electric. I remember one particular solo show there where I could truly feel the connection with the audience—it was like we were all experiencing the music together in real time.
Another venue that’s incredibly meaningful to me is the O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire in London, where I performed as a backing vocalist. That space is so rich with history and beauty, and standing on a stage where legends like David Bowie and Adele have performed was surreal. I could almost feel their energy lingering in the walls. Both places left a lasting mark on me as an artist and as a person.
What’s the funniest thing that’s ever happened at one of your shows?
One of the funniest moments happened during a live show on X Factor Lithuania. My group and I were performing, and it was our big moment to walk down the stairs during the intro. The camera was zoomed in on us, and right as I started descending, I missed a step and completely fell down the stairs! In the live broadcast, I just disappeared from the frame. It was mortifying at the time, but looking back now, it’s one of those moments that I can’t help but laugh at. It’s a good reminder not to take myself too seriously!
How do you handle the pressures of performance, and have your strategies evolved over time?
Handling the pressures of performance has definitely been a learning process for me. Early on, I used to overthink everything—what if I forgot the lyrics, hit the wrong note, or didn’t connect with the audience? That mindset made it harder to enjoy the experience. Over time, I’ve learned to focus on being present and letting the music lead. I remind myself that perfection isn’t the goal—connection is.
One strategy that’s helped me a lot is grounding myself before a show. Whether it’s taking a few deep breaths, saying a mantra, or just reminding myself why I love performing, it helps me get into the right headspace. Another thing that’s evolved is trusting my preparation and embracing the imperfections—they’re part of the magic of live music. At the end of the day, the pressure comes from caring deeply about what I do, and I try to channel that into delivering something real and heartfelt.
Do you have any rituals before you hit the stage? If so, what are they?
Before I hit the stage, I always take a moment to ground myself. I like to do a quick breathing exercise to calm any nerves and get my focus right. If I’m with my band or team, we’ll sometimes do a little group handshake or pep talk—it’s a nice way to connect and share the energy before stepping out.
Another ritual I love is listening to one or two songs that inspire me and get me in the zone. It’s like setting the mood for the performance ahead. And finally, I always remind myself to have fun and stay present. Live shows are unpredictable, but that’s part of what makes them so exciting.
What is your creative process like?
My creative process is a mix of structure and spontaneity. It usually starts with a feeling or a thought that I just can’t shake—something I know I need to express. Sometimes that comes out as a melody I hum into my phone, or it starts with a lyric or phrase that pops into my head.
Once I have that spark, I like to sit down with my instrument or a beat and start building around it. I focus on letting the ideas flow naturally at first, without overthinking. Once I have the foundation, I’ll refine it—experimenting with melodies, rhythms, or lyrics until it feels just right.
Collaboration is another big part of my process. Whether it’s with a producer, co-writer, or even just bouncing ideas off friends, having other perspectives can take the song to a whole new level. Overall, my process is about finding balance—letting inspiration lead the way while trusting my instincts to shape it into something meaningful.
Feeling whole in my body, can you tell us how this new single came together?
Feeling Whole In My Body came together during a time in my life when I was feeling more aligned with who I truly am. It’s a celebration of letting go of doubts and embracing self-empowerment. The idea behind it was to capture that feeling of liberation—like finally closing one chapter and stepping confidently into the next.
When I started working on the song, I knew I wanted it to have an uplifting, funky energy that matched the vibe of personal growth and freedom. I shared it with my producer, Roy Hamilton, and we instantly clicked on it. We were both really excited from the start, and that shared energy made the track sound so vibrant and alive. Recording in Toronto also added to that special feeling—being in a new place, I felt more connected to myself and to the music.
This song holds a really special place in my heart, as it’s not just a track, but a reflection of my journey. It’s a reminder to stay grounded in that feeling of wholeness, and I hope it does the same for anyone who listens.
Who are your main musical influences?
My main musical influences span across different genres, but what ties them together is their ability to blend emotion with a unique sound. Artists like Adele, with her powerful, soulful voice and deeply personal lyrics, have been a huge influence on me. Her ability to make every song feel raw and real is something I deeply admire, and I strive to connect with my audience in a similar way.
I’m also influenced by rock bands like Foo Fighters and Coldplay. Foo Fighters bring this intense energy and rawness to their music, which resonates with me on an emotional level, especially in their live performances. Coldplay’s ability to craft atmospheric, anthemic songs that connect with people globally is another influence—there’s a certain magic in how they combine melodic beauty with powerful storytelling.
These artists have shaped my sound and approach, blending elements of pop, funk, soul, and rock, and continue to inspire the way I create and perform music.
Email:neill@outloudculture.com
Socials: @neillfrazer
