Blending Sounds & Breaking Through: Nykara’s Next Chapter
Hi Nykara !! We are so thrilled to have you at Pop Palace! How are you at this moment?
I’m feeling great! I just graduated not too long ago, so I’m excited to be stepping into a new chapter of my life. I’ve got a lot of exciting things lined up for the summer, music-wise. Overall, I feel really good!
You’re a Bronx native — how has growing up there shaped you and your sound?
The Bronx is so rich in culture, and that’s something I really love about it. I grew up in a Black and Hispanic community, but there was a little bit of everything around me. My family played a mix of freestyle, hip-hop, salsa, and rap, and I had friends who were into Latin, pop, and R&B. I felt like I was constantly soaking it all in. Even though I say I make R&B music, I really love to blend sounds and experiment. Sometimes I’ll write to a beat people might not expect my voice to be on — but I tend to find a way to make it work, ha ha.
When did you first realize you wanted to make music, and what drew you to R&B specifically?
I think I’ve known since I was super young. I was always singing, writing, performing... but for a long time, I held myself back. It wasn’t until college that I really started bringing my songs to life. Being around other creatives helped me build the confidence to actually go for it. As for R&B, I never set out to write in a specific genre — I’d just hear a melody or a beat and start writing. But I think what drew me to R&B is the storytelling and the emotion in it. Compared to a lot of pop I heard growing up, R&B felt deeper and more personal. Even if my music doesn’t sound like classic R&B, it’s definitely influenced by it lyrically and melodically.
What have been some of the biggest challenges of navigating the music world as an independent artist?
Feeling like I’m doing everything on my own. I’m someone who doesn’t always like asking for help, but this industry is all about relationships and putting yourself out there. Another thing is content — I overthink a lot when it comes to posting. I’ll be like, “Am I being annoying? Does this look cringe?” But I’m lucky to have a manager and family and friends who really push me to stay focused and keep going. That support makes a huge difference.
What’s on your playlist right now?
The Eternal Sunshine Deluxe album by Ariana Grande — obsessed. I've also been playing Kali Uchis’ Sincerely album a lot. As for singles, I’ve had “In Your Eyes” by Snoh Aalegra and, kind of random, but “Lush Life” by Zara Larsson on repeat. That one just gives summer vibes, and that’s the energy I’m trying to tap into right now, ha ha.
What are you spending your time doing when not making or performing music?
Well a month or so ago I would’ve said schoolwork — but now that I’m done with grad school, I finally have more free time! When I’m not working on music, I’m usually at my job, hanging out with friends, chilling at home, learning more about audio production, or thinking about the next song or project.
Finally, here at Pop Palace, we all have our own little 'Royal Court' of artists who inspire us and keep us going. So, if you could build your own musical palace, who would be sitting on your throne, and who would be in your royal court of all-time favorite artists?
Ariana Grande is definitely on the throne — she’s my favorite. I’d also have Kali Uchis because I love how soft and feminine her whole vibe is. Leon Thomas would be in there too — I’ve been listening to him more recently, and he’s very intentional with his sound; great producer. Bad Bunny, for sure. He’s a great artist. I lowkey wanna say Sabrina Carpenter too — her personality is so quirky and fun, and I love how honest and unfiltered she is. Plus, she’s a great performer. And Kehlani — she’s a beast. You can tell how hard she’s worked from day one, and I really admire that hustler energy.
