Music Interview South Africa

#MusicExchange: Nic Billington rides the synthwave

Nic Billington is making waves once again, this time internationally, with the release of his brand-new synthwave-pop-inspired single called Homesick
Image by Kat Vahalova: Nic Billington
Image by Kat Vahalova: Nic Billington

Penned by Billington, Paul Gala and Mia van Wyk, Homesick delivers a compelling message of reminiscence that fills you with joy and sorrow, simultaneously.

Gala’s ingenious blend of ethereal dreamy synths and ‘80s inspired beats, coupled with Billington’s heartfelt raspy vocals, takes you on a nostalgic drive down memory lane and could very easily be mistaken for a soundtrack from the mid-eighties - only a little more polished.

Billington explains, “When I listened to the demo for the first time, I broke down and cried. I was really struggling with the passing of someone very close to me and this project just felt like the perfect celebration of life and remembrance.”

Homesick timeously coincides with Nic’s recent relocation to the United Kingdom, and although the singer has noted that he is missing home, the song speaks more about the precious moments lost in time and not a particular place.

The single is accompanied by a super slick visual that showcases Billington and friends on a carefree night out in England's capital city, London.

“I really wanted to capture spontaneity, excitement and fun for this visual, and we definitely understood the brief. At one point we even put the cameras away and missioned across the city on Boris bikes. I wish the process behind all music videos was this easy-going and fun”, Billington said.

Billington, whose musical influences include The Weeknd, has also just kicked off a promotional tour in the UK to promote the new single.

I caught up with him last week…

What is your job description?

Singer, songwriter, photographer, video producer, social media manager, publicist, event coordinator - musicians wear many hats.

What does music mean to you?

Music is escapism. It can alter your mood, take you on a trip and provide you with hours of entertainment.

My music is about…

Creating good memories and having a good time.

What is your motto?

My new motto in life is “thoughts become things” - So make sure you’re thinking about something positive!

Fame is about…

Having a strong support system.

Retirement will happen when…

I don’t enjoy what I do anymore.

I don't do…

Negative people.

I would love to co-write with…

The Weeknd, Billie Eilish, Mike Shinoda and Labrinth.

Where do you go for inspiration to create?

I get inspired to create when I’m alone. The location doesn’t matter as long as I can get lost in my thoughts.

What is the most enjoyable aspect of your work?

I really enjoy the creative process from writing music to directing music videos.

The song you must do during every show?

You Get Me High is a fan favourite. I can’t even hear myself singing it sometimes because the audience sings so loud.

Any funny moments on stage?

I sometimes forget the lyrics to my old songs, so I make the audience sing them back to me instead.

My heroes are…

The people closest to me.

My style icon is…

The Weeknd.

Which living person do you admire most and why?

Britney Spears. She has gone through the impossible and come out victorious.

What is your most treasured possession?

A signed autograph from Pamela Anderson.

It's your round; what are you drinking?

Margaritas for everyone!

Dream gig to do?

Glastonbury, The Brit Awards and the VMAs. In that order!

What makes you stand out?

Quality. I’m incredibly tough on myself to make sure that everything is how I want it to be.

Any nicknames?

Judes, Poo, Ninja, Nicholaj… The list goes on and on.

If you were not a musician, what would you do?

I would definitely be behind the camera, either directing music videos or films.

Pick five words to describe yourself?

Reserved, ambitious, passionate, sensitive, compassionate.

What are you streaming?

I’m currently listening to All Saints.

Greatest movie ever made?

Titanic.

What book are you reading?

The Secret by Rhonda Byrne. I wish I had read it sooner!

What song changed your life?

Homesick. It has created so many wonderful opportunities for me.

Who do you love?

My partner, my family and my friends.

Top of your bucket list?

To travel the world while performing my music.

Your greatest achievement?

Will be world domination.

What do you complain about most often?

I no longer dwell on negative things since reading The Secret.

Happiness is…

Being surrounded by the people you love.

On stage, I tend to…

Let go and live in the moment.

The best life lesson you have learned?

Be grateful for what you have right now.

What has been your favourite journey so far?

I’m really enjoying living in London at the moment. I just feel like I’m in the right place at the right time.

Do you do charity work, and if you do – what do you do?

I try to bring awareness to animal cruelty. I’ve performed at several events to help support this cause.

Wishes and dreams?

To take my music global.

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About Martin Myers

Co-owner at Triple M Entertainment, founder Music Exchange, manager Sipho Hotstix Mabuse
Let's do Biz