Q: Loving the nostalgic yet modern feel of “I Will Be” ! What was your favorite part in creating this track?
NADINE MAKALEW: I would say the backing vocal parts. The original arrangement of the backing parts didn’t sound like the end result. So after several changes it turns out to be what I want to hear and i am happy with the track.
Q: If you were stranded on a deserted island and could only listen to three albums, which would they be?
NADINE: Ooh that’s a tough question.
I’d say Brand New Day album from Sting
Second album would be Nat King Cole Christmas edition. My parents always turn on that song almost every Christmas days.
Third album would be Hiding place from Tori Kelly.
Q: I’m always interested in an artist’s musical journey; did you grow up with a musical family/do you remember what or who first made you fall in love with it?
NADINE: I think my grandpa was the one who introduced music not only to me but to his grandchildren. He’s just really into music and passionate about it although none of them are doing it professionally. Then starting from young age my parents already took me to the first piano lesson. Since then I never stopped doing music.
Q: I believe this track is an empowerment ballad after a breakup, but I could be totally wrong. Can you tell me a little about the inspiration behind “I Will Be”?
NADINE: To be fair this song is not precisely about breakup. This is indeed an empowerment song and to encourage myself or anyone out there that i can be who I want to be regardless that person is trying to bring you down. But in this song breakup is not really the story behind this track
Q: In your own words, how would you describe the music that you typically create?
NADINE: I grew up listening to lot of music from there i just received those informations without realizing it that gives me so many references in my music. I started with classical piano then I sang at church, playing in a band, playing traditional music until I found myself really like to listen and singing blues & soul.
Q: “I WIll Be” is an instantly catchy and uplifting track. What do you hope listeners take away from this track?
NADINE: I am a big dreamer so in this track i do intentionally dedicate to someone that whatever you do, you just have to do it and stay true to yourself.
Q: What has been one of the highlights of your music career so far?
NADINE: I think the fact that I have been playing in several European countries outside my home country has been quite an experience ! I wouldn’t change a single thing. If I have to point out one thing there was one time that i played with a good friend of mine where we had to play for Bruno mars tribute. It was an amazing night and since then became a turning point for me to sing more. Since vocal is not really my main instrument.
Q: What are you most excited about this year; any exciting projects in the works?
NADINE: Yes and yes ! I’m working on my debut album in Indonesia, my home country. The album would be about my journey when I first landed in Europe up until now. It’s like a progress how i started my life there until this period. So I can’t wait to share the results to the listeners. In this album id also have some collaborations with several musicians. I think working with other musician is just better only if it fits to each other.
Q: Thanks so much for talking with me! Any parting words to your fans/listeners?
NADINE: For all the listeners and supporters thank you for supporting me for all these years and following my journey until now. Such a bless to know people listen to my music.
Interviewed by Melissa Cusano
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