Welcome to Zion

i s a talented musician and songwriter who has made a name for herself in the Canadian reggae scene. Her music is characterized by its uplifting and positive messages, which reflect her belief in the power of music to bring people together and inspire change. Her commitment to spreading love and positivity through her music has made her a beloved figure not just in music but in life.

AT : Where did you grow up?

NC : My parents emigrated to Canada with their families in the 70's and settled in Scarborough. I grew up in Malvern and went to Jean Vanier and UTSC.

AT : How long have you been performing music?

NC : I've been performing on stage since 1995, but creating music for what feels like forever. I remember composing lyrics and melodies as young as 5 years old.

AT : Where did your love for music stem from?

NC : I am an all around creative, so my love for music isn't really surprising. My family is musically inclined and I was exposed to all kinds of music growing up. Music is natural and is a huge part of my life - whether or not I am on stage.

AT : What other genres of music do you enjoy?

NC : I love all music that feels good to me regardless of genre.

AT : What is the hardest part of being a musician?

NC : The juggling act between music, life and family - basically being able to nurture and develop all aspects of your life without losing focus and creativity.

AT : What is your favourite part of being a musician?

NC : Creating sound (and silence) out of nothing.

AT : What challenges and successes have you faced being a woman in the Industry?

NC : The balancing act of creating and taking care of one's family would have to be the biggest challenge for women in the industry. Having said that, my greatest successes have been being able to complete projects despite those challenges.

AT : Who is your biggest musical inspiration?

NC : It's so hard to choose - I find inspiration in so many artists, but if I had to name a few I would say Sade, Bob Marley, Lauren Hill and Midnite.

AT : Do you normally perform with one band or do you play with an assortment?

NC : I am a solo artist and have played with different bands. I also play as part of Dub Eclipse - a dub reggae band out of Toronto.

AT : Describe the reggae scene in Toronto...

NC : The reggae scene in Toronto is kind of like overlapping 'circles' of talented bands, musicians, artists, soundsystems, djs/radio, promoters and reggae lovers - all contributing to the Canadian music scene. In comparison to other countries, I will say that we have a long way to go in terms of supporting and growing our local talent.

AT : How many different instruments do you play and what are they?

NC : I'm not a 'pro' on any instrument, but I can find my way around the piano, melodica, ukulele, bass, saxophone, flute and some percussion.

AT : What are your interests outside of music?

NC : Social justice, equity work and gardening!

AT : What do you think separates reggae from other genres of music?

NC : I don't actually claim to be a reggae artist per sé - I'm just an artist. =) But, I can say that with reggae - it's 100% a feel. Unexplainable and indescribable. With conscious reggae there is a deep social justice element that is embedded in the music.

AT : Do you have any upcoming shows?

NC : No, but stay tuned.

ZionOnMyMind

ZionOnMyMind

ZionOnMyMind