Ep 2.1 - SuperKnova

Nikkie speaks with the incredibly talented SuperKnova, a producer, multi-instrumentalist, and singer-songwriter whose music embodies the diverse experiences of BIPOC, queer, trans, and non-binary artists – and has been featured on Showtime’s 'Work In Progress,' Epic Games’ 'Fortnite,' and playlists by Sephora, MTV and Spotify editorial. We begin the episode by showcasing SuperKnova's captivating track "Ava Gardner," which sets the stage for an engaging conversation about their journey through music, identity, and artistic expression. SuperKnova shares their unique background, revealing that their path to becoming an indie-pop/electronic musician began with jazz and included a stint in medical school. Along the way, music served as a therapeutic outlet while navigating their identity as a queer, transgender person. This transformative experience led SuperKnova to embrace songwriting as a way to process their emotions and life experiences, while their early songs, initially meant for personal reflection, gained an audience on platforms like Bandcamp, leading them to take seriously a career in music.

Superknova shares with Nikkie about their intention to create music that uplifts and empowers, particularly for marginalized communities, highlighting the importance of representing queer narratives in their work and weaving universal themes of love, belonging, and acceptance into their lyrics. They then delve into the realities faced by transgender and non-binary artists in the music industry today as SuperKnova shares their thoughts on tokenism and the ongoing challenges of navigating spaces that often feel unwelcoming. They talk about the need for safer environments and platforms that can amplify the voices of underrepresented artists, reflecting on their initiative to create a supportive music group specifically for BIPOC, queer, trans, and non-binary musicians. Toward the end of the episode, they discuss SupernKova's influences, musical style, and their aspirations for the future, including an upcoming fall tour and potential new music that will expand on their artistic vision. The episode then concludes with another of SuperKnova's tracks, called "Seatbelts."

This podcast is produced by Stereoactive Media.

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https://superknovaofficial.com/

https://superknova.bandcamp.com/

https://soundcloud.com/superknovamusic

https://www.youtube.com/@SuperKnovaMusic

https://instagram.com/superKnovamusic

https://facebook.com/SuperKnovaMusic

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0:11 - Introduction to When We See Each Other

058 - “Ava Gardner” by SuperKnova

3:51 - Embracing Autumn

5:28 - The Journey to Music

6:34 - Transitioning from Medicine to Music

10:53 - Family and Identity

12:20 - The Importance of Chosen Family

13:08 - Embracing Queer Identity

14:23 - The Origins of SuperKnova

14:50 - Learning the Craft

22:08 - Creative Process and Inspiration

25:35 - The Magic of Ava Gardner

28:10 - The Power of Representation

33:30 - Connection Through Shared Trauma

37:16 - Writing from Identity

40:48 - Navigating Indie Music as a Trans Woman

45:39 - Creating Safe Spaces in Music

49:41 - The Birth of a Community

55:11 - Future Projects and Releases

56:30 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

56:54 - “Seatbelts” by SuperKnova