Description

Nakia sat down with Ashley Monique Menard on The Eff Your Fears Podcast to talk about how he doesn't let fear take him down. In fact, he uses it as fuel. They talk about everything from what it was like to be the first openly gay singer on The Voice to the pitfalls of depression and drugs. But, how following your passion can be the thing that saves you. 

https://www.nakia.net/

Here's a little more about Nakia. 

Professional background

Nakia moved to Austin in 2002 from Chicago, where he had been working as an intern for Aware Records. After arriving in Austin, Nakia began to pursue a solo career but was first noticed by Fastball guitarist and co-founder, Miles Zuniga. Zuniga recruited Nakia to join his rock and roll lounge act side project, The Small Stars.

Each member of The Small Stars had an alter-ego and complete back story. Nakia created the character, "Vic Odin", who was described as a sleazy, double-crossing, British manager. He left the band in 2006.

In 2006, Nakia performed in theatrical productions of The Music Man and Rocky Horror Show. He also had a role in the independent film Lone Star Blues.^[1] Nakia soon became a featured singer at many local Austin venues and a favorite among many Austin music critics.^[2]

Recording background

Playing the Cards

In winter 2007, Nakia released the EP Playing The Cards. He formed the band Southern Cousins and the band began receiving positive reviews of their live shows.^[3] The band would go on to share stages with Willie Nelson^[4] and BB King^[5] and perform at events such as South Padre International Music Festival and Austin City Limits Music Festival.

Water to Wine

On April 14, 2009, Nakia release his first full-length album, Water To Wine. Produced by Mac McNabb, the album features songs written by Nakia, Michael Fracasso, and Monte Warden. The album was well received by local and national media.^[6][7]

St