Nancy Black is a British recording artist
‘The independent singer-songwriter has become known for her formidable sass and style leading to her collaborating with hip hop artists Lonzo Starr and Young Rob. She has also gained support from the likes of Major Lazor and Fatboy Slim after reaching number 8 on the Music Week Commercial Chart’.
Nancy is also a member of the newly formed Urban Pop group, IV Click.
The English rose meets pop princess started writing music at the age of 13 and soon formed the all-girl rock band Pink Lemons, before gaining the confidence to head out as a solo artist. From going solo Black developed her sound, having a much more commercial sound but with killer dance beats to give her music that unique edge
Exposed Vocals: So tell us your story. Where did you grow up? What made you decide to become an artist?
I grew up in a fairly small town in the South West of England. I grew up on watching musicals, such as Oliver Twist and Jesus Christ Superstar. From that I was always fascinated by the idea of being a performer and I’d put on my own little shows for the family and neighbours. Musically, I listened to all sorts, my dad always played Alanis Morrissette’s ‘Jagged little pill’ in the car and even to this day, it’s one of my favourite albums. In my early teens, I became a typical pop girl fan and at the age of 13 I got my first guitar and I began to write. I’m still a basic guitar player but it was the instrument that got me started.
Exposed Vocals: Since everyone was a start-up once, can you give any smaller or local bands or artists looking to get gigs and airplay some tips?
Just keep playing and writing, try not to get despondent when things don’t always go your way. Sometimes it’s tough to get gigs in certain places or to be heard by the right people. But just keep being creative with it, it’s your vision and your baby and you’ll find the right fanbase if you stay true to yourself . Indie is the new major!
Exposed Vocals: Do you ever make mistakes during performances? How do you handle that?
YES! There’s been a few times when I have forgotten the lyrics to some of my oldest songs! But if you’re quick and going with the flow of the music, you can normally rescue it with some alternative words. I also got a horrible electric shock off a mic once, I had a lip piercing then and damn it hurt but I made a joke of it and kept on.
Exposed Vocals: Do you tour? Anything interesting happen on tour that you think our readers would enjoy hearing about?
I remember on one tour we had no accommodation booked and having to sleep at a bar. But the worst was an after party of our last show, there was too much tequila involved and woke up with my head in a bowl of cat food. OH Tequila!
Exposed Vocals: Any planned studio upgrades? What are you working with now?
For now, we are using Cubase, Kontakt and loads of synth plugs, plus outboard analog synths. In terms of upgrades, I am unsure, I shall have to talk nicely to the producer
Exposed Vocals: How do you find ways to promote your music? What works best for you?
I work independently at promotion right now. Mainly because I have been screwed over by people before who claim they will promote you, charge a fortune and then do nothing. Luckily, I have a close network of musicians friends who can advise me on what blogs to submit to or how to plan releases effectively.
Exposed Vocals: If you could perform anywhere and with any artists (Dead or Alive) where and who would it be with? Why?
I’d love to perform with Alanis Morrissette in an acoustic set, her voice is so beautifully raw and there is no one quite like her. As for a venue, somewhere outside with a small audience, so it’s intimate and magical.
Exposed Vocals: So, what’s next? Any new upcoming projects that you want to talk about?
After the release of ‘Carry the Flame’ EP and ‘Faith, I’ve got a few other releases planned. I have a collaboration project with some great artists and producers. Young Rob, Lonzo Starr, Regah and me, make up a group called IV Click and we have our debut single ‘My Room’ on it’s way and it’s something different and exciting.
Exposed Vocals: If you weren’t making music, what would you be doing?
Probably acting or something creative OR writing historical erotic novels but think I will stick to the music right now!
Exposed Vocals: What should fans look forward to in the next year or so?
Lot’s of collaborations planned with some really great artists so watch this space
Exposed Vocals: Any Shout-outs?
Artist: A massive shout out to my producer and dear friend, Will Angeloro. Not sure how he has put up with me for so long! Also, my music mentor and buddy in the States, Lonzo Starr, thanks for the guidance and for helping me to keep believing in myself.
