20 Questions is a Q&A interview series with musicians, authors, and everyone in between, celebrating experiences both shared and individual in the messy game of being human.
“Beauty is unique and comes in a vast variety. It is also not everything.” Fia Nyxx embraces a theatrical approach to her music, embodying a brilliantly experimental clash of genres to transcend her once pop-artist image. Described as a first-rate old Hollywood glam-star garnished with a rockstar twist, she unleashes a masterful vision for storytelling and larger-than-life performances and continues to break barriers with a wave of new listeners following her latest release of sophomore album, Red Umbrella. The album connects the dots along a path less traveled, embracing strength through vulnerability, divine-femininity, spiritual awakening, sexual liberation and a love story to stand the test of time.
I got to know Fia for this week’s new edition of 20 Questions, where she let me in on her creative process, her inspirations and artistic beginnings, the new album, and lots more.
What’s one thing that made you fall in love with music?
Music transports you into a different time period, a particular moment in your life, a sacred memory, and can even bring you back to a particular feeling or time of your life that isn’t accessible by any other medium.
What time of day are you most inspired?
My favorite time of day has always been the golden hour. I love the beautiful feeling of magic in the air and the romantic atmosphere that takes over as day turns to night.
As a songwriter, which artists have influenced you the most?
I am deeply influenced by the powerhouse vocals and relatability of Etta James, the unrivaled talent and soul of Christina Aguilera, the theatrical story teller that is Freddie Mercury, the iconic stage performance of Prince, and the mastery of craft embodied by Sara Bareilles!
As an artist, what would you say is the general theme of your music?
My music tells a story of love, triumph, failures and rebirths, discovery of self and empowerment! The theme is universal but personal.
Who is your style icon?
My style is ever evolving but I wouldn’t say I have a particular style icon. I am a sucker for skin tight pants suits, big boxy shoulder pads, diamonds and pearls… think sexy but classy, edgy but classic.
How would you characterize your new album Red Umbrella?
This album is eclectic, an array of genres, a journey through self discovery, unapologetic empowerment, spiritual purpose and awakening, and a celebration of life and true love.
Favorite book of all-time?
Ask and It Is Givenby Esther Hicks.
The last series you binge-watched?
Married at First Sight. It’s an awful guilty pleasure!
The best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
A reminder that we are all human and deserve the right to this human experience! Mistakes and all.
Favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
Cuddle up with my puppy Gracie and the love of my life, my boyfriend Dylan, and watch movies under a warm blanket.
What is your favorite kind of song to write?
I am a sucker for a female power anthem! Anything with insane vocals and gut-wrenching lyrics, too.
What does the word “beauty” mean to you?
Beauty is confidence and acceptance of self. Beauty is kindness. Beauty is unconditional love. Beauty is unique and comes in a vast variety. It is also not everything.
Favorite movie of all-time?
I have 3. Chicago, I Am Sam, and House Bunny. Random, I know.
The best compliment you’ve ever received?
Recently I was called “one of the greatest vocalists of our generation.” I’ve worked incredibly hard to become a vocalist and so this means a lot to me.
You’re stuck on a long flight. Which world-famous musician would you want sitting next to you and why?
100% Freddy Mercury. I am absolutely fascinated with him and would have given anything to meet him. I think we would have had a lot in common and been good friends.
One song that you will never be sick of?
“My Father’s Eyes” by Eric Clapton.
AirPods or earbuds?
Neither. I like over the ear beats!
One thing that’s been keeping you sane during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Paint by numbers!
One vice you wish you could give up?
I am learning patience and surrendering control when it is necessary. Sometimes you need to know when to let go and let God.
What can we expect to hear next from you?
I have a new single coming out May 13th with Bobby Newberry called “Escape.” I am also in the works of my next few music videos and I’m preparing my tour through the U.S. this summer including stops in Vegas, Denver, Parker, New York, all throughout California, and several festivals including LA Pride Main Stage.
Follow Fia Nyxx on Twitter and Instagram, and stream her new album Red Umbrella wherever you listen to music.
Jeffrey Reads 