Scosha Loves — Nikki Kynard
March 5, 2019
Tell us a bit about yourself! What do you do and where can we find you?
I’m a singer, songwriter, and DJ but more personally I’m a very sensitive NYC artist and home-body who is constantly searching for inspiration and motivation to create things. I was born in the very small, lower-middle-class town of Toledo, Ohio so being here in NYC and making a living doing something I love is a true blessing, if not a miracle. The feeling I get when I achieve or create something (big or small) that I would have never conceived of growing up is my sheer motivation to continue. You can find me at Soho Grand Hotel spinning vinyl on Friday nights.
What has been your best adventure?
One of my favorite adventures was sky diving. I have a severe fear of heights but I have this trick that allows me to conquer my fears. I say YES to each step leading up what I’m afraid of. So in this case, a friend invited me on a sky diving trip, I said yes to the trip but could still back out of sky diving. The morning of I said YES to going to the skydiving location, but I could still back out if I felt overwhelmed. I said yes to the training and signed all of the necessary forms, yes to getting on the plane and once I was up there and everyone was dropping out of the plane, I was at the point of no return! I guess I just force myself to conquer fears one step at a time.
What and where was the best vacation you’ve had?
My best vacation was actually more of a work trip. I scored a DJ residency at W hotel Maldives for 2.5 months. It was a private island and I was the only DJ there with about 3 different venues so I worked a lot. It was like DJ boot camp. I think that’s where I really learned to mix. After I got used to the schedule and the excitement of being there settled I realized I was alone in the middle of the Indian Ocean. There were no vices for me to turn to. I had no choice but to go inward. I read Women Who Run with the Wolves thoroughly, meditated constantly and wrote music. Taking a chunk of time to step away from the hustle of NYC gave me the clarity that I needed to come to terms with things that had happened in my past and I realize how these things have affected my current state. This gig/vacation was a Godsend that ushered me into a new way of thinking. I had successfully changed my mind.
Who has been the most important guide in your life?
This is difficult to answer because I've been blessed with so many people who believe in me and have helped me achieve my goals! My mom is my forever guide. I just hope to have the strength and resilience of her. But with that said, I want to take this opportunity to mention my partner AKU. Being with him is the reason I’m able to do what I love to do for a living. He showed me that it’s possible to not compromise my sanity to make NYC rent. He’s also been a spiritual guide. I’ve never met someone who is so authentically himself. It’s a great influence to have!
How was your experience shooting the Scosha SS19 Lookbook?
I had a great time shooting with Scosha! The pieces were so light that I’d forget I had them on! It also felt like I was at home, the environment and energy were so warm.
What are your top 3 travel essentials?
As many clothes and shoes as I can possibly take without everyone thinking I'm crazy (options are important), my daily makeup, and my hair products based on what hairstyle I’m rocking at the time. I switch it up often (I call that black girl magic)! Oh! I also need a good book. Everything else I can buy when I get there.
Beach town or city?
Beach town for sure! I run from anything that resembles NYC when I’m vacationing.
A place you dream of one day visiting?
It’s a dream of mine to ride in a hot air balloon in Cappadocia, Turkey. It looks like a fairytale. I’m a hopeless romantic so I’ve always imagined sharing that experience with my partner. Can you believe they fly hundreds of hot air balloons at the same time, 7 days a week, 365 days a year? So beautiful!
What is something you’re working on or would like to share with our audience?
I’m finally working on some new music as a vocalist. I think putting myself out there in this way is one of the biggest fears I’ve ever had in my life. It hasn’t always been that way. I had some success in the past landing myself a platinum feature. I’m ready now! It’s still a work in progress so I’m not ready to share any links but follow me on Instagram for updates. I’m also DJing all over the place!
