Urbanista Magazine is thrilled to sit down with the legendary Nancy Nova, whose latest album, Tour De Force, showcases her ability to captivate audiences once again. Featuring 18 dynamic tracks, the album is a vibrant blend of new compositions, reimagined classics, and daring covers, all rooted in the irresistible soundscapes of the 80s and 90s. From her stunning rendition of “The Winner Takes It All” to thought-provoking originals like “Lily” and “Copy,” Nancy Nova proves that her artistry is as timeless as ever. In this exclusive interview, she delves into the vision behind the album, her creative process, and the emotions she hopes to inspire in listeners, all while reflecting on her storied career and her exciting plans for the future.
Tour De Force, features 16 tracks, including new compositions, revamped classics, and iconic covers. What was your vision for this album?
It’s actually 18 Tracks. As the 80’s-90’s sounds were becoming so popular again, Kingbonesand I decided to record a full-on Electro Album, with my favourite songs. Some songs had been released before and some were never released. We also thought a couple of covers would be fun to do.
Your cover of ‘The Winner Takes It All’ is stunning. What drew you to this song, and how did you approach making it your own?
Oh, thank you. We both loved the song and Kingbones just presented the backing track to me, one Summer’s evening, whilst we were dining in the garden. I sang it there and then. (I remember the neighbours clapping). The key seemed fine. I never like to pre-empt how to approach a song, so once we got to the studio, I just sang it a few times. We always collaborated on our music, so Kingbones would have suggested different ways to sing and I would have experimented. I remember this didn’t take too long at all.
The album maintains a strong 80s aesthetic while feeling fresh and modern. How did you strike this balance during the creative process?
Again, not much forethought went into it, as far as I was concerned. The credit for the musical production all goes to KB. His idea was indeed to keep the 80’s aesthetic whilst making it fresh and I guess he succeeded.
‘Lily’ and ‘Copy’ explore powerful themes like anti-war sentiments and dystopian futures. Can you share the inspiration behind these tracks?
These are purely topics of interest to me. The horror of war and the idea of cloning. I very rarely have an idea for a song that I have to write. Usually, an idea just comes to me whilst I’m in the studio fumbling around. It drops into my lap and I give it form before it flies off.
What emotions or stories do you hope listeners will take away from, Tour De Force?
I suppose I would like my music to make the listener feel. Maybe feel uplifted, happy, intrigued. It’s hard to put into words. I remember from an early age, that I would sometimes hear a song and be mesmerised. It would make me feel like I had never felt before. I would have to hear it again. It’s a kind of love or elation. That’s what made me want to be a singer-songwriter. When people feel like that, listening to me, that’s amazing.
Siouxsie Sioux recently named you as an influence. How does it feel to see your work being recognized by peers and celebrated by new audiences?
Over the moon.
The 80s underground disco scene was iconic. What was it like being a part of that movement, and how does it influence your music today?
I loved that time. It suited me so much. In a funny way, it allowed me to be myself. I always wore the retro clothes of my Mothers and Grandmothers. I was into Theatre and Film. I was just at the right age, fresh out of school to let go of conformity and express my eccentricity. The 80’s underground Disco scene not only accepted me but welcomed me with open arms.
You’re planning live performances next summer. How does it feel to prepare for the stage again, and what can fans expect from your shows?
The idea of performing these songs at Festivals is so exciting. I won’t say too much at this stage but you can be sure it’ll be a little weird and a lot of fun!
Your internet fanbase has played a significant role in your renewed popularity. How have they impacted your journey back to the spotlight?
My goodness, without these fans, old and new, I would probably be, at least slowing down by now. I would be in my art studio, painting crazy abstracts. I never dreamed that the fans from the 80s would still be buying my CDs and contacting me and that I would have a young fan base discovering and liking my music.
Looking back on your career, what lessons or insights have stayed with you, and what advice would you offer to aspiring artists?
When I first started out, I think I was quite serious about my music but in retrospect, I realise it’s better to relax and have fun. So to all aspiring artists, in whatever area, I would say relax…do what you love….love what you do.
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