Recently out and about in the local music scene, I was really happy I got to interview the upcoming alternative rock singer-songwriter, Nicole Govel from Marlboro, New Jersey. Back in November 2017, Nicole Govel released her debut EP titled, Happy Hour and celebrated its release with a SOLD OUT show at The Saint in Asbury Park. Happy Hour is definitely not an EP you want to miss out on. My advice to you… GO LISTEN IMMEDIATELY. Nicole’s jazz and alternative rock twist in her singer-songwriter style music, is unlike anything I have ever heard before. With tracks like, “Reckless,” she has you hooked with a Strokes kind of vibe, to her final track, “Last Call,” where her jazzy-hook will have the chorus stuck in your head for days. Here are some things she had to say about her involvement in music from a young age, Happy Hour, and future releases!
1.) What got you into music and made you want to become a musician?
My mom sings and my dad plays guitar so music has always been a huge part of my life and becoming a musician was the inevitable next step. I’ve been singing since I was ten years old and my parents, as well as all of the musicians I’ve met at school, have encouraged me to pursue my dream.
2.) Who would you say are some of your musical influences?
Major songwriters like Billy Joel, Elton John, and Freddie Mercury inspire me with their songs that practically paint pictures. I also love the edginess of the Strokes and The Killers and try and keep that in mind when I write. Right now, Billie Eilish is the artist I look up to most because she’s young, bold, and takes risks.
3.) Can you give me a little more insight to your debut EP, Happy Hour? What was the recording process for it like?
My friend was opening up a studio and told me to write songs to make an EP and so that’s exactly what I did. Two of the songs were written in the middle of the night and I made voice memos on my phone to remember them, one was written in the shower, and another was written on a whim in the studio. I only play piano so I only write songs with piano in mind and when the musicians who recorded on my album came into my studio, it was magic. They captured the exact sound I wanted even though I couldn’t necessarily verbalize it.
4.) What was the first song you wrote for Happy Hour and what was the inspiration behind it?
“Reckless” was the first song I wrote for Happy Hour. Bad “break-up” I guess you would say.
5.) I was really happy to make it out to your Happy Hour EP Release Show at The Saint in Asbury Park. I heard that it SOLD OUT. What was hearing that news like for you?
I’m so happy you made it to the show! It was definitely the highlight of my life so far. Hearing the show was sold out was the most surreal experience. I couldn’t believe that all of those people were there to see me, considering I didn’t even think I would sell twenty tickets. It was incredibly humbling.
6.) Now for some fun questions. Imagine you’re watching a concert and one of the band members spontaneously combusts. You get called to the stage to replace that band member. Who’s the band?
Probably Britney Spears. I grew up listening to her and know every song by heart so I think it would be a pretty easy fill-in. Plus, she’s beyond fabulous.
7.) What is your favorite album to listen to right now?
I’ve had AC/DC Back In Black on repeat in my car for the past two weeks.
8.) If you could collaborate with anyone in the world, who would it be?
If Ella Fitzgerald were still alive, I would collaborate with her. I’m a trained Jazz singer and have always listened to her duets with Louis Armstrong so I always imagined what a duet with her would be like.
9.) Are there any other local bands, or musicians you would like to give a shout out to?
Yes! I sing backup for Dan Amato and the Sentimental Gentleman and, even though I may be biased, we always kill it and pack the house when we perform. Look out for new music from them soon. Also many Ernest and Deal Casino songs have made their way into my playlist.
10.) What can we expect from you in 2018?
I hope to release some singles in the summer and perform more! With work and school, writing has been put on hold for now but the second I graduate I plan to release so much more music. I’m also looking to make a music video!
11.) Where can everyone find your music?
You can find Happy Hour and my previously recorded song “San Francisco” on Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, Amazon, and YouTube! There may be more platforms for all I know, but definitely the majors!
All Photos Right Reserved to the Original Producers of the Images.
Myze Music 