Nia Wyn hails from North Wales, and writes Soul-infused Pop tracks that document both the introspective world and the environment she sees around her.
Nia’s recent EP, Love I Can’t Ruin, covers everything from Brexit to benefits, touching upon The Daily Mail, cat-calls and her own mental wellbeing in the process. Embodying a timeless, groove-led sound, the singer-songwriter transports the listener to a smoky basement bar East of the Mississippi.
If we were to listen to one track on the new EP, which do you suggest?
Hard question but I’m going to go with Love I Can’t Ruin. Not just because it’s the title track – I feel it holds the EP together both musically and lyrically. And from what people have told me so far it might be the most relatable!
You grew up in a seaside town in North Wales, how did you form your relationship with music?
I started playing guitar when I was 9, and grew up hearing a lot of Northern soul, disco and reggae in the house because of my dad. I was then exposed from everything to Bob Dylan and Billie Holiday, to Marvin Gaye, Carla Thomas. I became fascinated with what influenced different decades and music trends which lead me to hip hop and neo-soul. No looking back after that!
Many of your releases are themed with animated artwork, who designs them?
Cat Sims is a brilliant artist, worked with her on a few of my releases now – whenever I send her music and a rough idea of what I’m feeling, she just visualises and illustrates it perfectly.
Your sound seems to touch upon multiple musical periods, but which decade’s music do you feel the most affinity with?
Gotta say early 1970s I think. That decade probably is the most inspiring musically for me. I love a pointy popping shirt collar too.
What are your plans for 2020?
I’m already recording more music so lots more of that, and some collaborations with other artists. I’m also on tour with Paul Weller in May on his sold-out UK tour. Excited to see what 2020 brings.
