Celebrating PRIDE with Nicolas McCoppin
Nicolas McCoppin releases new single 'Remember That Night' to kick off Pride Month
PRIDE month 2020 has arrived! And although 2020 looks drastically different than previous years, it hasn't stopped artists from releasing new material or the LGBT community from celebrating.
And celebrating love and Pride is what dream pop artist Nicolas McCoppin is bringing to us in the form of his latest release 'Remember That Night', an electro smash rip curl that takes listeners on that all too familiar journey through the many experiences as you fall in love for the first time.
“This song’s concept is a puzzle piece of a bigger idea from my debut EP,” McCoppin said. “I’m so excited to finally have this song out in the world.”
In true community celebration form, McCoppin says that the song's proceeds will benefit the Black Trans Femmes in the Arts Association as they support the current protesters and Black Lives Matter movement. Already being compared to such artists as Charli XCX Nicolas McCoppin is building a large online following and is considered a rising figure in the LGBTQ community as one of the next major pop artist to watch.
McCoppin uses his platform and music to encourage others to unapologetically be themselves and is the perfect artist for our first feature of the 2020 Pride month. With so many stars on the rise for this young artist, now is the perfect time for everyone to get to know Nicolas McCoppin!
Hi Nicolas, thanks for taking some time with us. For those out there who may be unfamiliar with you, why don't we start with you telling us a little bit about you?
Thank you so much for having me! Yeah of course! I’m a pop singer/songwriter, born and raised in New York. I’m such a pop music nerd but that’s kind of a given haha!
How long have you been making music for? What age were you when you really get started and what got you into music?
So I’ve been singing since I could speak. I started getting vocal training around 12 years old. I would take every opportunity as a kid to sing, whether it be musicals for school choirs. I started making serious pop music in 2018. That’s when I started seeking out producers and co-writers online. I had all these ideas and stories in my head and it was just about meeting the right people to help me bring my visions to life!
The particular style of music you're known for is "Dream Pop", How would you describe that style?
The “Dream pop” genre was kinda given to me! I love it! To me, it’s like a subcategory of Dance pop just literally with a dreamy feel to it.
You're also known for dabbling in some 80's sounds. Where does that interest come from?
I absolutely love 80s pop music. I remember listening to old Madonna and Whitney music growing up and that’s where the interest sparked. In my early teenage years I really got into the “modern” 80s pop genre. Carly Rae Jepsen is someone who captures that sound just so perfectly. I’m so obsessed with her. She’s constantly inspiring me.
And celebrating love and Pride is what dream pop artist Nicolas McCoppin is bringing to us in the form of his latest release 'Remember That Night', an electro smash rip curl that takes listeners on that all too familiar journey through the many experiences as you fall in love for the first time.
“This song’s concept is a puzzle piece of a bigger idea from my debut EP,” McCoppin said. “I’m so excited to finally have this song out in the world.”
In true community celebration form, McCoppin says that the song's proceeds will benefit the Black Trans Femmes in the Arts Association as they support the current protesters and Black Lives Matter movement. Already being compared to such artists as Charli XCX Nicolas McCoppin is building a large online following and is considered a rising figure in the LGBTQ community as one of the next major pop artist to watch.
McCoppin uses his platform and music to encourage others to unapologetically be themselves and is the perfect artist for our first feature of the 2020 Pride month. With so many stars on the rise for this young artist, now is the perfect time for everyone to get to know Nicolas McCoppin!
Hi Nicolas, thanks for taking some time with us. For those out there who may be unfamiliar with you, why don't we start with you telling us a little bit about you?
Thank you so much for having me! Yeah of course! I’m a pop singer/songwriter, born and raised in New York. I’m such a pop music nerd but that’s kind of a given haha!
How long have you been making music for? What age were you when you really get started and what got you into music?
So I’ve been singing since I could speak. I started getting vocal training around 12 years old. I would take every opportunity as a kid to sing, whether it be musicals for school choirs. I started making serious pop music in 2018. That’s when I started seeking out producers and co-writers online. I had all these ideas and stories in my head and it was just about meeting the right people to help me bring my visions to life!
The particular style of music you're known for is "Dream Pop", How would you describe that style?
The “Dream pop” genre was kinda given to me! I love it! To me, it’s like a subcategory of Dance pop just literally with a dreamy feel to it.
You're also known for dabbling in some 80's sounds. Where does that interest come from?
I absolutely love 80s pop music. I remember listening to old Madonna and Whitney music growing up and that’s where the interest sparked. In my early teenage years I really got into the “modern” 80s pop genre. Carly Rae Jepsen is someone who captures that sound just so perfectly. I’m so obsessed with her. She’s constantly inspiring me.
Who were the music artists that influenced you growing up? Who are the more current artists that you're listening to now?
There’s so many! I grew up on the powerhouse female vocalists of the industry like Ariana Grande, Christina Aguilera and Mariah Carey. I feel like I’m definitely more of a belty singer and that’s where it comes from. Some other artists that have had incredible influence on me are Carly Rae, Troye Sivan, Years & Years, Kim Petras, Dua Lipa etc. Just to name a few! I literally could go on for hours. I’m always listening to music and looking for new artists.
The new song is 'Remember That Night' off your forthcoming EP. What's the song about for you?
I’m so excited about this song! It’s such a personal song to me. I wrote this song back last year about those feelings of falling in love for the first time. I co-wrote the song with Krysta Youngs. I’ve written a few songs on the EP with her and she’s just someone I feel so comfortable writing with. The song is produced by one of my favorite producers Nick Trapani. This song actually first started as an instrumental he produced for me. I sat on it for a long time because I was waiting for the right moment. I’m so proud of this one and I can’t wait for everyone to finally hear it!
This will be your debut EP. How long has it been in the creation stages?
Oh my god it feels like forever! But in the best way haha. It’s been a little over 2 years. With my first two singles, I knew that they were going to be a part of the project but, it wasn’t until I was about 3-4 songs deep that I had a fully conceptualized project. ‘Remember That Night” and another unheard song were truly the core songs of the concept. I basically built the rest of the project around them. I’ve had the most incredible team working on it with me. Nick Trapani and POSSESSIVE are two people I couldn't do it without. They’ve really helped shape the project with me. I can’t wait to finally share the rest of the music with the world.
With the current state of live music shows in question due to the Covid-19 pandemic it's hard to know when you will be able to play a traditional live show next. Are you considering or planning to do live stream performances for the new single and EP?
I actually have a couple of live stream performances in the works! I grew up posting cover videos on YouTube so all of that is super familiar to me. I had a few tentative live shows in New York City planned but everything was put to a halt with Covid-19. It sucks because performing on stage is always my favorite part. The music really takes on a new life live. I’m still holding out hope for an EP release show in New York City but if not I’ll for sure do a super fun livestream.
When it comes to live performance pre-pandemic, what has been your favotrite part of live performance? What's been your most memorable gig?
My favorite show by far had to be my NYC debut at The Bowery Electric. It doubled as a release show for my single “Ur Love”. Everyone came out and I truly had the time of my life! I played all my songs that were out, some unreleased and some covers. Magda DJ’d for me which was so much fun! It was really one of those moments when you’re like “Wow I can’t imagine myself ever doing anything else with my life.”
There’s so many! I grew up on the powerhouse female vocalists of the industry like Ariana Grande, Christina Aguilera and Mariah Carey. I feel like I’m definitely more of a belty singer and that’s where it comes from. Some other artists that have had incredible influence on me are Carly Rae, Troye Sivan, Years & Years, Kim Petras, Dua Lipa etc. Just to name a few! I literally could go on for hours. I’m always listening to music and looking for new artists.
The new song is 'Remember That Night' off your forthcoming EP. What's the song about for you?
I’m so excited about this song! It’s such a personal song to me. I wrote this song back last year about those feelings of falling in love for the first time. I co-wrote the song with Krysta Youngs. I’ve written a few songs on the EP with her and she’s just someone I feel so comfortable writing with. The song is produced by one of my favorite producers Nick Trapani. This song actually first started as an instrumental he produced for me. I sat on it for a long time because I was waiting for the right moment. I’m so proud of this one and I can’t wait for everyone to finally hear it!
This will be your debut EP. How long has it been in the creation stages?
Oh my god it feels like forever! But in the best way haha. It’s been a little over 2 years. With my first two singles, I knew that they were going to be a part of the project but, it wasn’t until I was about 3-4 songs deep that I had a fully conceptualized project. ‘Remember That Night” and another unheard song were truly the core songs of the concept. I basically built the rest of the project around them. I’ve had the most incredible team working on it with me. Nick Trapani and POSSESSIVE are two people I couldn't do it without. They’ve really helped shape the project with me. I can’t wait to finally share the rest of the music with the world.
With the current state of live music shows in question due to the Covid-19 pandemic it's hard to know when you will be able to play a traditional live show next. Are you considering or planning to do live stream performances for the new single and EP?
I actually have a couple of live stream performances in the works! I grew up posting cover videos on YouTube so all of that is super familiar to me. I had a few tentative live shows in New York City planned but everything was put to a halt with Covid-19. It sucks because performing on stage is always my favorite part. The music really takes on a new life live. I’m still holding out hope for an EP release show in New York City but if not I’ll for sure do a super fun livestream.
When it comes to live performance pre-pandemic, what has been your favotrite part of live performance? What's been your most memorable gig?
My favorite show by far had to be my NYC debut at The Bowery Electric. It doubled as a release show for my single “Ur Love”. Everyone came out and I truly had the time of my life! I played all my songs that were out, some unreleased and some covers. Magda DJ’d for me which was so much fun! It was really one of those moments when you’re like “Wow I can’t imagine myself ever doing anything else with my life.”
|
|
|
It's actually a really exciting time right now for indie LGBTQ artists. So many more have been very visual and vocal about their life and experiences. Have you been listening to or following many other LGBT artists and if so who has caught your ear/attention?
It really is! It’s been so cool to see so many new LGBTQ+ artists on the rise. I listen to and follow so many! Troye Sivan had a really big impact on me growing up. I remember when he came out and started releasing his own music. I was still in the closet at the time so it was so inspiring watching him. Kim Petras is another one. Her story and come up is so incredible. I’ve actually met her quite a few times! She’s truly one of the sweetest and most supportive people. Some others who I wanna shout out are VINCINT and Isaac Dunbar.
What has been the biggest surprise for you so far regarding your own music journey?
Seeing people connect with my music. I’ve had people tell me that they connect with a certain song and it never feels any different for me. It’s so crazy because I grew up like that! Always connecting with music on such a deep level. The fact that I’ve even been able to do that for just one person is insane to me.
Who would your dream music collaboration be with? Either writing or performing with.
I’d have to say Ariana Grande. Both writing and performing. I totally grew up idolizing her haha. I’m so inspired by her talent all the time. I’d love to be able to just sit in the studio with her for a day, pick her brain and get her advice. It’d be a dream haha!
What’s next? What does the next 2 years hopefully look like?
Well definitely my EP coming soon, with more music to follow. A tour would be an absolute dream come true. To fully be able to plan setlists, concepts and outfits. It’s been something I’ve always wanted to do. Besides that I hope I can keep building my audience and making music people can connect with!
What’s something on your music career “bucket” list?
Hmm that’s a hard one! There’s so many huge things I’ve dreamed of as a kid. As typical as this is, I’d have to say playing Madison Square Garden. I went to so many of my favorite shows there. Growing up in New York, it holds such a special place in my heart. I’d probably cry on stage if that ever happened. I definitely would cry on stage haha!
What are the biggest challenges as an independent artist that you’re currently faced with?
That’s a good question! I’d probably have to say budget. One of the perks of being on a major label is having a budget for everything. I work and completely fund everything myself. I’ve had to make cuts for things before and I knew if I had a budget I’d be able to do. That’s okay though because it’s part of the process. Being independent has its perks though! I get to call all the shots and choose all the creative directions.
What’s your advice to other young artists out there looking to start releasing their own music?
My advice would be to definitely make sure you’re in it for the right reasons. If the passion isn’t behind the music the audience will be able to tell. Also make sure you’re ready for a million “No’s” before you finally get that yes. When you’re first starting off in music, it’s a lot of hustle before you see a little bit of payoff. But it’s worth the hard work. Find a team that can see your vision and that you’re comfortable working with. That is one of the most important parts.
It really is! It’s been so cool to see so many new LGBTQ+ artists on the rise. I listen to and follow so many! Troye Sivan had a really big impact on me growing up. I remember when he came out and started releasing his own music. I was still in the closet at the time so it was so inspiring watching him. Kim Petras is another one. Her story and come up is so incredible. I’ve actually met her quite a few times! She’s truly one of the sweetest and most supportive people. Some others who I wanna shout out are VINCINT and Isaac Dunbar.
What has been the biggest surprise for you so far regarding your own music journey?
Seeing people connect with my music. I’ve had people tell me that they connect with a certain song and it never feels any different for me. It’s so crazy because I grew up like that! Always connecting with music on such a deep level. The fact that I’ve even been able to do that for just one person is insane to me.
Who would your dream music collaboration be with? Either writing or performing with.
I’d have to say Ariana Grande. Both writing and performing. I totally grew up idolizing her haha. I’m so inspired by her talent all the time. I’d love to be able to just sit in the studio with her for a day, pick her brain and get her advice. It’d be a dream haha!
What’s next? What does the next 2 years hopefully look like?
Well definitely my EP coming soon, with more music to follow. A tour would be an absolute dream come true. To fully be able to plan setlists, concepts and outfits. It’s been something I’ve always wanted to do. Besides that I hope I can keep building my audience and making music people can connect with!
What’s something on your music career “bucket” list?
Hmm that’s a hard one! There’s so many huge things I’ve dreamed of as a kid. As typical as this is, I’d have to say playing Madison Square Garden. I went to so many of my favorite shows there. Growing up in New York, it holds such a special place in my heart. I’d probably cry on stage if that ever happened. I definitely would cry on stage haha!
What are the biggest challenges as an independent artist that you’re currently faced with?
That’s a good question! I’d probably have to say budget. One of the perks of being on a major label is having a budget for everything. I work and completely fund everything myself. I’ve had to make cuts for things before and I knew if I had a budget I’d be able to do. That’s okay though because it’s part of the process. Being independent has its perks though! I get to call all the shots and choose all the creative directions.
What’s your advice to other young artists out there looking to start releasing their own music?
My advice would be to definitely make sure you’re in it for the right reasons. If the passion isn’t behind the music the audience will be able to tell. Also make sure you’re ready for a million “No’s” before you finally get that yes. When you’re first starting off in music, it’s a lot of hustle before you see a little bit of payoff. But it’s worth the hard work. Find a team that can see your vision and that you’re comfortable working with. That is one of the most important parts.
Ok, now that we know the music side of you a bit better, lets jump into some fun questions!
First and foremost, have you had that night you "can't" remember?
A few here and there haha! I’m not one to completely forget a night but for sure I have some fuzzy nights.
If you could go uninvent anything, what would it be?
This is gonna sound dumb but Olives lol! I’ve hated them since I was a kid.
What are the five things you can’t live without?
Hmm definitely my phone and my Macbook, a pair of headphones because I’m always listening to music. Coffee for sure because I drink like 4 cups a day lol. The last one probably being Italian food! Growing up Italian it easily becomes your favorite haha!
What do you get up to when you're not making music?
Most people don’t know this but I’m actually a working makeup artist in NYC! I’ve been into makeup since I was 13. It’s another way for me to be creative.
Favorite holiday and holiday tradition?
Halloween is probably my favorite holiday. I love Christmas too though. Just the whole idea of Halloween is so much fun to me. I’ve always loved it.
Favorite TV binge?
Vanderpump Rules! It’s like my favorite show. I’m always down for a Drag Race binge too though!
Desert Island Discs: What are the 5 albums you have to have with you if stranded on a deserted island?
This is a hard one! Okay I’d have to say:
Emotion by Carly Rae Jepsen
Dangerous Woman by Ariana Grande
Teenage Dream by Katy Perry
Dedicated by Carly Rae Jepsen
Future Nostalgia by Dua Lipa
Super power of choice?
Definitely to be invisible!! I’ve always wondered what it would be like haha.
You walk into a room. What song is your personal soundtrack that is playing?
I’d have to say Run Away with Me by Carly Rae Jepsen. It’s one of my favorite songs of all time for sure.
What’s one last thing you want readers to know about you?
I hope that people can connect with me, this song and the rest of my music. With everything going on in the world, I hope it can bring a sense of happiness. Even if it’s only for 3 minutes and 59 seconds.
First and foremost, have you had that night you "can't" remember?
A few here and there haha! I’m not one to completely forget a night but for sure I have some fuzzy nights.
If you could go uninvent anything, what would it be?
This is gonna sound dumb but Olives lol! I’ve hated them since I was a kid.
What are the five things you can’t live without?
Hmm definitely my phone and my Macbook, a pair of headphones because I’m always listening to music. Coffee for sure because I drink like 4 cups a day lol. The last one probably being Italian food! Growing up Italian it easily becomes your favorite haha!
What do you get up to when you're not making music?
Most people don’t know this but I’m actually a working makeup artist in NYC! I’ve been into makeup since I was 13. It’s another way for me to be creative.
Favorite holiday and holiday tradition?
Halloween is probably my favorite holiday. I love Christmas too though. Just the whole idea of Halloween is so much fun to me. I’ve always loved it.
Favorite TV binge?
Vanderpump Rules! It’s like my favorite show. I’m always down for a Drag Race binge too though!
Desert Island Discs: What are the 5 albums you have to have with you if stranded on a deserted island?
This is a hard one! Okay I’d have to say:
Emotion by Carly Rae Jepsen
Dangerous Woman by Ariana Grande
Teenage Dream by Katy Perry
Dedicated by Carly Rae Jepsen
Future Nostalgia by Dua Lipa
Super power of choice?
Definitely to be invisible!! I’ve always wondered what it would be like haha.
You walk into a room. What song is your personal soundtrack that is playing?
I’d have to say Run Away with Me by Carly Rae Jepsen. It’s one of my favorite songs of all time for sure.
What’s one last thing you want readers to know about you?
I hope that people can connect with me, this song and the rest of my music. With everything going on in the world, I hope it can bring a sense of happiness. Even if it’s only for 3 minutes and 59 seconds.
Follow NICOLAS McCOPPIN on Social Media
As a completely free service to artists and supporters, we have launched a Patreon account to help us keep producing new and promotional content. If you're a fan of Q Review and want to support, skip on over and have a look. We appreciate the support.