Check out our interview with singer-songwriter Dougie Nielsen.
They are most widely known for their viral TikTok’s and ability to make a song out of any sound. The trio writes and produces all their own music and they just released their new single Smoke and Sunshine.
Follow Dougie @dougienielsen
Dougie, please tell us a little about you?
Hi! I’m 20 years old singer and songwriter from Long Island NY.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Hardworking, Confident, Risk-taker.
We’re sure you have been asked this million times but how did you get in the industry?
I was with my family at a restaurant bar in Florida and there was a woman there playing piano and singing and I couldn’t stop watching her. As soon as I got home my mom put me in piano lessons and shortly after I began writing my own music and singing it.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
Eclectic, Smooth, Empowering
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
Adele mostly but newer generations Billie Eilish’s artistry has opened doors for sounds I’ve always wanted to create but never did.
Do you play any instrument?
Yes, the piano!
Do you ever get nervous?
Honestly, I do. I get nervous about what people are going to think but then I realize I’d rather be happy with myself than fear other people’s thoughts.
Tell us about your new single “We Ain’t The Same?”
This song is the type of song you can workout too, pump up to or just listen to it to feel your best confidence.
What’s the story behind the song?
Me and Syblayz wanted to make an impact for the LGBT community and be taking seriously. Also growing up I had to pretend to be someone I wasn’t and never got to fully embrace myself. I got to a point where I decided I couldn’t pretend anymore and figured out which parts of myself weren’t really me. So just the confidence I’ve gained and embody on a day to day basis is what made me write this song.
Which project is still on your bucket list?
Going on tour.
What is fun and rewarding about what you do? And what’s not?
Being able to watch a song come to life that started out with just an idea or an emotion is truly addictive.
What’s next for Dougie Nielsen in the last months of 2020?
Moving into NYC!
What is you favorite song? And why?
I don’t just have one single song! So many different vibes for me.
Any loves other than music?
Allstar cheerleading and I love doing makeup on myself and other people.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
Amy Winehouse to ask her how she wrote her music and where certain songs stemmed from also i would ask her for advice.
Best advice ever given?
Do what makes you happy.
How’s a typical day in your life?
Usually very busy and I’m always rushing!
Name one your strengths?
Juggling multiple things at once and balancing it and staying true to myself.
Idea of a perfect Sunday?
Self care always.
What is you favorite song to belt out in the car/for karaoke?
Probably something Sam Smith.
What is your own definition of happiness?
Being with the people I love that really care for me, as do I.
