When We See Each Other
Stereoactive Media
Recent Episodes
Nikkie speaks with the incredibly talented SuperKnova, a producer, multi-instrumentalist, and singer-songwriter whose music embodies the diverse experiences of BIPOC, queer, trans, and non-binary artists – and has been featured on Showtime’s 'Work In Progress,' Epic Games’ 'Fortnite,' and playlists by Sephora, MTV and Spotify editorial. We begin the episode by showcasing SuperKnova's captivating track "Ava Gardner," which sets the stage for an engaging conversation about their journey through music, identity, and artistic expression. SuperKnova shares their unique background, revealing that their path to becoming an indie-pop/electronic musician began with jazz and included a stint in medical school. Along the way, music served as a therapeutic outlet while navigating their identity as a queer, transgender person. This transformative experience led SuperKnova to embrace songwriting as a way to process their emotions and life experiences, while their early songs, initially meant for personal reflection, gained an audience on platforms like Bandcamp, leading them to take seriously a career in music.
Superknova shares with Nikkie about their intention to create music that uplifts and empowers, particularly for marginalized communities, highlighting the importance of representing queer narratives in their work and weaving universal themes of love, belonging, and acceptance into their lyrics. They then delve into the realities faced by transgender and non-binary artists in the music industry today as SuperKnova shares their thoughts on tokenism and the ongoing challenges of navigating spaces that often feel unwelcoming. They talk about the need for safer environments and platforms that can amplify the voices of underrepresented artists, reflecting on their initiative to create a supportive music group specifically for BIPOC, queer, trans, and non-binary musicians. Toward the end of the episode, they discuss SupernKova's influences, musical style, and their aspirations for the future, including an upcoming fall tour and potential new music that will expand on their artistic vision. The episode then concludes with another of SuperKnova's tracks, called "Seatbelts."
This podcast is produced by Stereoactive Media.
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https://superknovaofficial.com/
https://superknova.bandcamp.com/
https://soundcloud.com/superknovamusic
https://www.youtube.com/@SuperKnovaMusic
https://instagram.com/superKnovamusic
https://facebook.com/SuperKnovaMusic
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0:11 - Introduction to When We See Each Other
058 - “Ava Gardner” by SuperKnova
3:51 - Embracing Autumn
5:28 - The Journey to Music
6:34 - Transitioning from Medicine to Music
10:53 - Family and Identity
12:20 - The Importance of Chosen Family
13:08 - Embracing Queer Identity
14:23 - The Origins of SuperKnova
14:50 - Learning the Craft
22:08 - Creative Process and Inspiration
25:35 - The Magic of Ava Gardner
28:10 - The Power of Representation
33:30 - Connection Through Shared Trauma
37:16 - Writing from Identity
40:48 - Navigating Indie Music as a Trans Woman
45:39 - Creating Safe Spaces in Music
49:41 - The Birth of a Community
55:11 - Future Projects and Releases
56:30 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
56:54 - “Seatbelts” by SuperKnova
Nikkiesha McLeod delves into the world of queer artistry with An Only Child, a captivating musician and dancer whose debut album, 'Prepare the Body,' is a project steeped in vulnerability. An Only Child shares about their creative journey, starting with their early inspiration to make music, rooted in a childhood filled with singing in the church and an innate urge to express themselves through melody. They also share the nostalgic memory of their first song, a quirky tribute to the animated series 'Rocket Power,' highlighting the blend of innocence and creativity that has persisted throughout their life. From film studies to dance, they reveal a multifaceted background that informs their artistic outlook, emphasizing how these various mediums intertwine and influence their work today. The discussion moves towards the meaning behind the artist's stage name, which is as much about personal identity as it is about artistic expression. They also candidly share the intentions behind their album to unearth and express emotions that have often been kept private, a process intensified by their experience of vocal cord surgery, which temporarily silenced them, and also share how the album title reflects a broader exploration of physical and mental preparation, intertwined with themes of healing and self-care. Throughout our conversation, An Only Child discusses the interplay between their music and dance, revealing how each song conjures a desire to move. This exploration leads to a fascinating commentary on the creative process, where they find inspiration in the comfort of their daily rituals, particularly bathing, which allows for a childlike state of creativity and relaxation. Reflecting on the timing of their album and the impact of the pandemic, An Only Child talks about navigating the unexpected challenges of 2020, including being injured just as they were mixing their album. They share how this tumultuous period has reshaped their perspective on work, rest, and community, emphasizing the newfound appreciation for connection. As we dive deeper, An Only Child elucidates their influences, from personal experiences to other artists in the queer and BIPOC communities, all of whom inspire their work in unique ways. The conversation weaves through topics of identity, resilience, and the quest for authenticity, culminating in thoughts on genre fluidity and the road ahead in a capitalistic world. The chat also touches on heavier themes as An Only Child candidly addresses their lived experience as a Black queer artist, drawing parallels between their identity and the freedom of expression found within their work.
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Guest: An Only Child
Host & Producer: Nikkiesha McLeod
Producer & Editor: Jeremiah Lee McVay
Released by Stereoactive Media
Nikkie dives deep into the world of singer-songwriter Mel Fine, whose artistry encapsulates the experience and emotion of being a queer, non-binary person in today's music landscape. Mel reflects on their journey through music and identity, exploring the profound influences that have shaped their path as an artist. They share their earliest memories of music, noting that it has always been a form of self-expression and storytelling for them. From early experience in musical theater to taking a more focused approach to songwriting, Mel describes how these experiences allowed them to articulate their feelings and experiences through music. They discuss with Nikkie the therapeutic aspects of songwriting, especially during difficult times, and how Mel's first significant compositions were born out of personal challenges and the desire to connect with others. Mel candidly recounts how their song, "In Between," emerged during a songwriting class when they decided to confront their truth head-on, leading to a cathartic songwriting experience. They reveal their process of coming out to friends, family, and even their audience through the music and its raw vulnerability. Mel shares about the supportive environment they have cultivated among friends and family, breaking down the barriers of misunderstanding that often accompany discussions around gender and identity. Throughout the episode, Mel's infectious passion for storytelling shines as they reflect on the balance between performing live and studio work and their experience auditioning for American Idol.
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Guest: Mel Fine
Host & Producer: Nikkiesha McLeod
Producer & Editor: Jeremiah Lee McVay
Released by Stereoactive Media
Nikkiesha McLeod welcomes the talented singer-songwriter Mackenzie Shivers, a close friend and an acclaimed musician, to share insights into her upcoming album, Rejection Letter, which is set to be released on April 2nd. The episode begins with Mackenzie's single "Martha's Vineyard," paving the way for an in-depth discussion of the emotional landscape of her music, her artistic evolution and the impact of the pandemic on her creativity, and the importance of supporting independent artists.
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Guest: Mackenzie Shivers
Host & Producer: Nikkiesha McLeod
Producer & Editor: Jeremiah Lee McVay
Released by Stereoactive Media