We recently connected with Nonoka and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Nonoka , thanks for joining us today. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?
I was lucky to grow up in a home filled with music, especially jazz and blues, thanks to my parents’ love for these genres. Their passion for music shaped my own musical journey. My mom, who played the piano since she was a child, was particularly influential. When I was around 7, I would jam with her, and she always encouraged me to play from the heart, not just focus on technique. She would say, “Play like you’re singing,” teaching me that emotion in music is just as important as precision.
My parents were incredibly supportive, always giving me opportunities to listen to live music and encouraging my musical development. Their guidance and love for music have had a lasting impact on my style and approach. I’m deeply grateful for everything they taught me and for creating an environment where music was always a part of my life.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I started playing music when I was four years old, influenced greatly by my family. Since then, I’ve always had a deep love for jazz, funk, and blues. I would create short songs almost every day, and my passion for music grew stronger as I got older. At the age of 14, I began performing as a trumpet player at jazz clubs. It was at one of these clubs that I first encountered the Hammond organ. I instantly fell in love with its warm, soulful sound and decided to start learning to play the organ.
My hometown, Osaka, is a great city for organ players, with many clubs featuring the B3 organ and a vibrant community of organists. However, I wanted to immerse myself even more in the music, so when I was in high school, I traveled to New York City. The music scene there was incredible and truly inspiring, so I made the decision to move to New York.
I attended The New School in New York, where I deepened my music studies. After graduating, I moved to Los Angeles, where I began playing in a band and composing music.
My music is deeply influenced by funk, with a distinctive “tasty” sound that many people enjoy. One of the aspects that sets me apart is my unique ability to play both the keyboard and trumpet at the same time, which has become my signature style.
In addition to performing, I also compose music for media. , I always aim to create music that resonates with the audience, offering something both fresh and familiar.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
I want people to dance to my music—feeling the rhythm and energy that moves them.I hope to influence others and help them fall in love with music, just as I have
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to connect with others on a deep emotional level. Music has the power to reach beyond words and touch the core of someone’s feelings. It can be there for people not just during joyful moments, but also during difficult times when they need support. When someone tells me that my music helped them feel better or gave them strength, it’s the most rewarding and humbling experience. Those moments remind me why I do what I do and reaffirm that I’m on the right path.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nonokanagao.com
- Instagram: `nonokanagao
- Facebook: Nonoka Nagao
