Interview: Nicole Ockmond

Nicole is a singer/songwriter from New Orleans.


1. For many artists, they cite a defining moment for themselves when they knew they wanted to be a singer. For many it was the appearance of Elvis on the Ed Sullivan show, to another generation it was the Beatles’ appearance on Sullivan half a decade later. Is there such a defining moment for you?

I've always sung whatever I was listening to..when I was a child riding in the back seat my mom used to yell at me to keep it down because I had such a big mouth. No real defining moment..someone I respected told me I should give it a try and I did..auditioned for a friend's band and got the gig.

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?

I listen to everything and anything as long as it is good and suits my mood or activity. Jazz, Country, Rock, R&B, Blues, Soul, Rapp, Techno whatever... I love to listen to Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, & Sarah Vaughn. I think that Allison Krauss has one of the purest contemporary voices and there are so many other current artists I enjoy..way too numerous to mention

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?

On record would have to be the live recording sessions...hearing my lil' songs that I wrote in my room on accoustic guitar flushed out and fully realized by awesome musicians for the first time...that blew me away. Live would have to be performing at the Parish...the upper room at the HOB...I'm used to performing in small places with a crappy PA or no PA at all so it was nice to hear ourselves in a geat venue with a nice crowd.

4. Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to? How much can music influence current events?

Imagine...awesome song.. put to words what many were thinking at the time and still are. Hearing that song certainly makes you think and that is where change can begin...and on a lighter note how about those great songs from School House Rock..they certainly influenced my test scores a few times. I was and am still amazed that such catchy songs could be written from such mundane subject matter

5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?

Well for one I wouldn't be answering these questions because myspace would not exist. Technology has made everthing accessable to both musician and listener. In the past an artist would only get to record/release their music if they were signed to a record label and only a few of the lucky artists could own and run their own label. Now a musician can record, mix, master, design, duplicate, distribute, market, book your own tour, keep in touch with fans, keep informed about the industry...anything... and all from a personal computer. In the past and artist could dream now I can do.

6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?

High Heel Sneakers of course.