Nedy
Interview conducted on May 13, 2022
by Dan Locke
NEDY combines her unique signature dance moves in her live performances with her soothing and distinguishable voice. NEDY’S authentic artistry and stage presence is magnetic and enticing
What is your upbringing?
I grew up in Los Angeles. My mom was a single mother of 3. We didn’t have much money growing up but my brother, sister, and I were really close. I remember from a young age my dad playing music around the house all the time when we would visit him. One of his brother’s was a professional singer and he always really inspired me. My favorite music ranged anywhere from Alanis Morissette to Ana Gabriel. I wasn’t actually born a singer, I started playing guitar and ended up taking voice lessons when I was 21 in order to pursue my dreams of a career in music. Fast forward to now and I’ve come a long way with not only my music career but also starting my own anti-bullying non-profit, Friends Forever Club which I founded last year in 2021.
How did you discover music?
My dad has always been a huge music fan even though he never played an instrument or sang. He is just a real genuine lover of music and so I think that really was handed down to me. I also can remember jamming to Sheryl Crow’s, “My Favorite Mistake” with my childhood best friend and her dad in the car. Still love that song!
How did you start to write music?
I started writing music during the time I was taking voice lessons. I taught myself and just sort of wrote what I felt and what was on my mind and heart.
How did you get your first guitar, and do you still have it?
My mom bought me my first guitar from a swap meet! I do not still have it but I love how you don’t have to own expensive equipment to fuel your passions. I just had the willingness and perseverance to pursue my dreams.
What is your guitar of choice now? Year, make and model? Does she have a name?
Well, I still have to say I love my Squier by Fender Strat I’ve had all these years. It’s a special edition model and has treated me so well!
Your voice is your second instrument. How did you find the strength to take vocal lessons?
I had a mission and a goal and looked at my obstacles then acted/eliminated those obstacles accordingly. I guess it comes down to if you want something, you have to ask yourself how bad do you really want it?
Describe your music.
Fun, meaningful, and encouraging!
What was your first performance like?
I would have to say one of my favorite experiences was performing at the Dream Center in Phoenix, Arizona. We were all on cloud 9 that day! Definitely felt the presence of God.
How often did you do Music Missionaries?
Honestly, I would consider myself a music missionary everywhere I go and every time I do a concert or event! Going on the Extreme Tour was my first introduction to this lifestyle, and it has shaped so much of who I am today both as an artist and a Christian.
Royalties never appear like magic. Royalties are only sent to you through work undertaken by a PRO to ensure that their members are getting paid. If you’re not yet signed up to a Performing Right Organization like ASCAP, BMI or SESAC, you may not be receiving all the royalties you deserve. Do you belong to any to songwriters’ organizations like the International singer-songwriter association, SESAC, BMI or ASCAP ?
Yes, I am!
What makes a good songwriter?
I think it’s a skill and if you are really anointed for it I think it’s a calling. I think it can be both!
What was the title of your first original song? Did you record it? Was it “The Only One”?
My first original song was called, “What I needed” and it’s about if I found “the one” for me, my soulmate, would he be what I needed. “The Only One” came out on my second EP. I think my first EP, “Got Music”, is buried somewhere!
What is the process of writing your music?
Usually, I write when I’m feeling sad or discouraged. It is a form of self-expression for me. I am of the belief that a great songwriter can write no matter how they’re feeling….I’m still learning that skill!
How was it to quit your job, sell all your stuff and move to Nashville?
Honestly, it hit me probably about 6 months after, right at the peak of Covid. I moved to Nashville at the end of 2019 and after about half a year I was like, “Did I really just move across the country by myself away from my family who I love so much?” I remember praying, “God if you still want me here, please show me.” Shortly thereafter a lot of doors started opening for me, one right after the other. It did take about 1 year though until I saw the “light at the end of the tunnel”.
How did it feel to finally play the BlueBird Café?
Well it was an honor, really! Growing up on the West Coast in a Hispanic family who mainly listened to contemporary Spanish music or the current Pop song on the radio, I did not know about the BlueBird Cafe until I moved to Nashville. Of course when I got to Nashville I learned about the great history of it and was so excited when I got to perform there.
Tell me about your latest single “Made to Be”?
“Made To Be” is an anti-bullying song I wrote at one of my lowest moments in life. I wrote it when I was going through bullying as an adult and never dreamed of how far that painful experience would take me. I love seeing how God has done great things through great pain in my life for a greater purpose.
In the official music video how did you find the director Brian Medeiros”?
Working with Brian was awesome! Super easy going guy, very professional and talented. I consider him a friend of mine and I am excited to announce for the first time anywhere that we are shooting a new music video coming up for my upcoming single, “Fuel”.
Why did you redo it?
I love shooting music videos and wanted to show a different side of the same song for the Remix.
