We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Girl Named Nino. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Girl Named Nino below.

Alright, Girl Named Nino thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

Taking risks has been a fundamental part of my artistic journey, especially early on when I was predominantly self-taught. One of the biggest risks I took was deciding to pursue music at a conservatory-style school, despite not having a formal background in music education. It was a leap of faith in many ways, but I knew I needed to learn from experts in the field to fully realize my potential as an artist.

To make it happen, I had to get creative and resourceful. I built up my repertoire, even though I had no formal training. I also worked as a nanny, using those jobs to fund private lessons and earn enough money to sustain my education. I took on the challenge of balancing a job while working toward my music goals, and that was no easy feat.

Eventually, my perseverance and risk paid off when I earned scholarships and was accepted to a conservatory where I obtained my Bachelor’s in Music. Not only did I gain invaluable knowledge, but it also opened doors for me as an artist, producer, and bandleader. The entire experience taught me that risks, when calculated and fueled by passion, can be incredibly rewarding, not just in terms of career growth but also in the personal development they bring.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m a Recording Artist, Songwriter, Producer, and Composer known as Girl Named Nino. I blend genres and disciplines to create powerful, emotive music, drawing from a rich foundation in Soul, Funk, Hip-hop, Electronic Music, Jazz, Rock, Classical, and World music traditions. My experiences as a self-taught musician and conservatory-style trained artist influence every note I craft, leading to evocative, genre-defying, cinematic compositions. Whether performing as a solo artist, producing experimental sounds, or leading my band, I continually push the boundaries of traditional music, weaving together elements of jazz, soul, indie, and experimental styles. My music is characterized by lush arrangements, soulful melodies, and raw, authentic energy that resonates deeply with both cinephiles and audiophiles alike.

At the core of my artistic mission is a desire to inspire others to embrace their true selves and explore their creative freedom. I believe in the power of music to break barriers, heal, and foster connection, and I use my platform to create a sense of community through my art. My work challenges norms, pushes boundaries, and aspires to give way to bold, liberated artistry that empowers others to trust their creative journeys and express themselves unapologetically.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

I wish I was less focused on building up locally and took bolder choices when It came to having a broad, more International footprint. I wish I had taken more music business classes earlier on in my undergrad, the way I have in the past couple of years, with attending Entertainment Studies and Music Business Certification courses at UCLAx which have let to meeting some incredible mentors and coming into my own in a more emboldened, inspired way.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

I want to set a precedent of success and cultural impact in writing for films and shows and producing and composing culturally relevant, impactful works as well as collaborating with other artists.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.linktr.ee/girlnamednino
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlnamednino
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/girlnamednino
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/girlnamednino606
• Twitter: https://x.com/girlnamednino
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/girlnamednino
• Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/girlnamednino

Image Credits

cover photo and images 2-5 Photos by Kinetic Kath taken at 67th Grammys
photo 6-8 by Gashuka Photography