Interview With Barbara Nicole

Introduction: Who Is Barbara Nicole?

Barbara Nicole is more than just a name in the dance music industry; she’s a vibrant force of creativity and resilience. As a DJ, singer-songwriter, producer, and founder of her label, Good Crazy, Barbara Nicole has carved out a unique niche for herself. Her musical repertoire spans genres like deep house, Italo disco, progressive house, and nu-disco. But what truly sets Barbara Nicole apart is her ability to blend infectious melodies with deeply personal storytelling, creating tracks that resonate with listeners on a profound level.

Barbara Nicole‘s journey in music began in her Boston childhood, surrounded by the rich musical influences of her family. Her Italian-American heritage plays a central role in shaping her artistic sensibilities, from her love of soulful storytelling to her appreciation for simplicity and authenticity in her craft. Over the years, she has transformed her passion into a thriving career, performing for thousands at iconic venues and festivals while also exploring the deeper layers of her artistry through songwriting and production.

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This Q&A interview offers a glimpse into Barbara Nicole‘s world — her inspirations, challenges, and the unique perspective she brings to the global dance music scene. But first, let’s get to know her better.

The Woman Behind The Music

Barbara Nicole‘s journey is as colorful and diverse as her music. From her roots in Boston to her transformative experiences in Ibiza, Barbara Nicole‘s life has been shaped by her resilience, passion, and unwavering creativity. In this section, we explore the key moments, challenges, and personal joys that define the artist behind the decks.

Early Life and Roots

Barbara Nicole‘s story is deeply intertwined with her Italian-American upbringing in Boston. Raised in a household brimming with music, she was profoundly influenced by her grandfathers — one a saxophonist and harmonica player who owned a music shop, and the other who introduced her to the soul classics of Sam & Dave. This early exposure to music was complemented by her participation in church choirs and youth conservatories, where her vocal talent began to shine.

Despite her love for music, Barbara Nicole faced significant challenges during her college years. Without the support or mentorship to pursue a career in the arts, she temporarily stepped away from music. However, her passion was reignited years later when volunteering during the holidays reminded her of the joy her voice could bring to others. From that moment, Barbara Nicole embraced her calling, beginning a journey that would take her from Brooklyn clubs to the global stage.

Personal Struggles and Triumphs

Barbara Nicole‘s path hasn’t been without its share of obstacles. Her recent divorce was a pivotal moment, leading her to rediscover herself and find inspiration in solitude. During this time, she moved to Ibiza, a decision she describes as life-changing. The island became a sanctuary for her to focus on self-care, develop a healthy routine, and dive into her music with renewed energy.

“I joked that it would be my ‘summer of love’ — falling in love with myself.“

Barbara Nicole shared. The result was transformative, leading to some of her most compelling work yet.

Hobbies and Interests

Beyond the decks, Barbara Nicole finds joy in cooking, a passion deeply rooted in her Italian heritage. She often compares music-making to preparing a meal, emphasizing the importance of high-quality ingredients and patience. Her family traditions, such as enjoying donuts to celebrate milestones, continue to inspire her creative process and keep her grounded.

The Rise of a Multi-Talented Artist

Barbara Nicole‘s rise in the music world is a testament to her talent, determination, and innovative spirit. From her early days as a budding artist to founding her own record label and achieving career-defining milestones, Barbara Nicole has consistently pushed boundaries and redefined her artistry. This section delves into the pivotal moments that have shaped her journey and cemented her status as a versatile force in the music industry.

The Beginning of Her Music Career

Barbara Nicole‘s music career took off in New York and San Francisco, where she quickly gained recognition for her eclectic sets. Her chance introduction to the Brooklyn nightclub scene and her involvement in the Burning Man community were key milestones. These experiences not only expanded her network but also influenced her genre-blending style.

The Birth of Good Crazy

The launch of her record label, Good Crazy, marked a turning point in Barbara’s career. The label became a platform for her to champion innovative music while supporting emerging artists.

“I wanted it to be a home for funky, experimental sounds you’d hear in the underground scene.“

Barbara Nicole explains. Today, Good Crazy is known for its diverse releases, from trance to nu-disco, reflecting Barbara’s boundary-pushing ethos.

Breakthrough Moments

From opening for Anderson Paak at Allegiant Stadium to performing at Miami Music Week, Barbara has had several career-defining moments. Her debut album, Palm Dreams, is another highlight. The album is a deeply personal project that chronicles her journey through love, heartbreak, and self-discovery.

The Creative Mind of Barbara Nicole

At the heart of Barbara Nicole‘s artistry lies her dynamic and ever-evolving creativity. Her music is a tapestry of emotions, experiences, and inspirations woven together with her unique perspective. In this section, we explore the forces that drive her creativity, from her sources of inspiration to her innovative process and the evolution of her distinctive style.

Musical Inspirations

Barbara Nicole‘s music is a vivid reflection of her life’s experiences, emotions, and surroundings. For her, inspiration strikes from the most unexpected moments. From a stroll through the vibrant streets of Miami to the melancholic whispers of her past relationships, Barbara Nicole draws upon the beauty and complexity of everyday life. A self-described “double Pisces“, she attributes her ability to craft heartfelt, relatable music to her deep sensitivity and intuitive nature.

“My music often stems from the beauty and pain of daily life.“

Barbara Nicole shares. One memorable instance was during a walk in Miami when she spotted striking purple flowers that instantly transported her back to a song from Alice in Wonderland. Such moments form the foundation of her creative process, enabling her to weave her emotions into melodies that resonate universally.

Barbara Nicole‘s diverse musical influences further enrich her artistry. Her childhood was steeped in the sounds of Elvis Presley, Tina Turner, and No Doubt, thanks to her family. Later, her exposure to punk rock, Italo disco, and experimental genres helped her develop a kaleidoscopic style that blurs the lines between deep house, indie pop, and underground sounds.

Creative Process

Barbara Nicole‘s creative process is as dynamic and layered as her music. She approaches songwriting and production with a balance of structure and spontaneity, starting each day with rituals that prime her for creativity.

“I can’t create without my foundation: journaling, meditation, vocal warmups, and gratitude exercises.“

Her process often begins with a raw emotion or thought scribbled in her journal. From there, she develops melodies and lyrics, building tracks in Ableton. Barbara Nicole‘s mornings are particularly fruitful, with ideas frequently emerging as she starts her day.

“It’s not uncommon for me to wake up with multiple melodies in my head that I need to record immediately.“

Collaboration is another key aspect of Barbara Nicole‘s process. Working with producers like Jim Greer, she embraces a “no rules” mindset, allowing her instinct and intuition to guide her. This approach is evident in her debut album, Palm Dreams, where she seamlessly blended genres like nu-disco and techno. The album was created in an intense two-week studio session with Jim Greer, showcasing her ability to channel raw inspiration into polished art.

Barbara Nicole also loves experimenting with sound design, using effects that mimic elements like water or an animal’s movement to create immersive, tactile tracks. Whether layering spoken-word vocals to evoke tension or playing with unexpected arrangements, she pushes the boundaries of traditional electronic music.

Evolution of Her Style

Barbara Nicole‘s sound has evolved dramatically over the years, shaped by her life experiences and shifting creative vision. Early in her career, her music leaned toward funky disco, heavily influenced by the classics her mother played during her childhood. Over time, however, she began revisiting her roots in pop-punk and indie rock, genres she adored growing up with bands like No Doubt and Avril Lavigne.

This return to her origins has infused her music with a darker, more experimental edge. Tracks like “Feet Money” showcase her cheeky, rebellious side, while others, such as “Ghosted” and “Horse at The Disco“, reveal her willingness to explore unconventional themes and sounds.

“I’m drawn to the quirky and unexpected. If a track surprises me, I know I’m onto something good.“

Her evolution also mirrors her personal growth. Following her divorce, Barbara Nicole found herself delving into more introspective themes, exploring vulnerability, resilience, and the process of healing. This transformation is especially evident in her EP More of Me, which juxtaposes passion and heartbreak with bold, genre-defying beats.

Looking ahead, Barbara Nicole is eager to push her sound even further.

“I want to create new genres by blending elements people don’t expect to hear together.“

She says. From merging country with progressive house to marrying indie pop with Latin freestyle, she’s constantly exploring new ways to expand her creative horizons.

The Music That Defines Her

At the heart of Barbara Nicole‘s artistry lies her dynamic and ever-evolving creativity. Her music is a tapestry of emotions, experiences, and inspirations woven together with her unique perspective. In this section, we explore the forces that drive her creativity, from her sources of inspiration to her innovative process and the evolution of her distinctive style.

Albums and EPs

Barbara Nicole‘s debut album, Palm Dreams, is more than a collection of tracks — it’s a heartfelt narrative of her life, encapsulating the highs and lows of her twenties. The album takes listeners on a journey through her time living in New York City and San Francisco, weaving together themes of love, self-discovery, and resilience. Recorded over two intense weeks with producer Jim Greer, Palm Dreams blends pop, nu-disco, house, and techno, showcasing Barbara Nicole‘s ability to traverse genres while maintaining a cohesive, authentic sound.

The album’s standout tracks include “Church of House“, an anthem of self-love and empowerment, and “Let Her Do It“, which reflects on personal growth and independence. Barbara Nicole‘s willingness to channel deeply personal experiences into her music has created a project that is both intimate and universally relatable. As she describes it, Palm Dreams is a “love letter to my younger self“, encouraging listeners to embrace their journey, no matter how turbulent.

Her EP More of Me builds on this emotional depth, diving into the complexities of relationships, from the thrill of new connections to the lingering presence of past lovers. Songs like “XTC” capture the pulse of a night out, while “Come Alive” and “Wasting Time” explore passion and heartbreak. The EP solidifies Barbara Nicole‘s reputation as an artist who isn’t afraid to bare her soul, creating music that resonates on a deeply personal level.

Notable Singles

Barbara Nicole‘s singles further highlight her versatility and creativity. Tracks like “Feet Money” exemplify her bold, playful side, blending cheeky lyrics with gritty beats. Inspired by a lighthearted joke during a Palm Springs getaway, the song celebrates empowered women and the audacity to chase what they want. The track’s edgy production reflects the vibrant energy of Miami’s music scene, a source of inspiration for Barbara Nicole and her collaborators.

“Horse at the Disco“, another fan favorite, demonstrates Barbara Nicole‘s knack for combining the unexpected. With its quirky title and experimental sound design, the track takes listeners on a surreal auditory journey, blending pulsating rhythms with imaginative storytelling.

Her single “Ghosted” strikes a more poignant chord, addressing the pain of being left behind in love. Through its haunting lyrics and emotive melodies, the track captures the raw vulnerability that defines much of Barbara Nicole‘s work. Whether playful or introspective, each of her singles carries a unique voice and vision, drawing listeners into her world.

Breaking and Bending Genres

One of Barbara Nicole‘s defining traits is her refusal to be confined by a single genre. Her music seamlessly blends elements of deep house, indie pop, progressive house, and more, creating a sound that is both eclectic and cohesive. She describes her approach as “putting ingredients together like in cooking“, allowing her instincts to guide her toward unexpected combinations.

Tracks like “Trance in Vegas” showcase her ability to layer dreamy melodies with driving beats, while songs such as “Church of House” marry disco grooves with electronic textures. Barbara Nicole‘s adventurous spirit has also led her to collaborate with artists across genres, from the soulful stylings of Ed Hoffman to the experimental beats of international producers.

This fearless experimentation is what makes Barbara Nicole a standout artist in today’s dance music landscape. By pushing boundaries and embracing vulnerability, she continues to create music that defies expectations and leaves a lasting impression.

Life Beyond The Decks

Barbara Nicole‘s influence extends far beyond her music. From advocating for women in the industry to fostering meaningful collaborations and embracing the joys of everyday life, Barbara Nicole embodies a balance of passion, purpose, and humanity. This section sheds light on the impact she makes off the stage, enriching the lives of her community and fans.

Empowering Women in Music

Barbara Nicole is not just a trailblazer in her music but also a passionate advocate for empowering women in the industry. She’s vocal about the challenges female artists face and is committed to creating spaces where they can thrive. Through her record label, Good Crazy, Barbara Nicole actively supports emerging female talent, ensuring they have the opportunities and resources to succeed.

Her mentorship extends beyond her label. Barbara Nicole often shares stories from her own journey, offering guidance and inspiration to aspiring artists. At live events and on social media, she emphasizes the importance of self-belief and resilience, reminding young women that they can break barriers and redefine the norms in electronic music.

One of her most cherished moments was meeting a young girl in New York who, inspired by Barbara Nicole‘s performance, decided to pursue a career as a DJ.

“There’s no greater feeling than knowing my work has encouraged someone to follow their dreams.“

Barbara Nicole says. Moments like these fuel her mission to inspire future leaders and innovators in the music world.

Community and Collaboration

Barbara Nicole‘s dedication to community is evident in every aspect of her career. She thrives on collaboration, often describing the process as “a meeting of creative minds to build something extraordinary“. Whether it’s working with producers like Jim Greer or performing alongside her Burning Man community, Barbara Nicole values the connections that shape her art.

Her record label, Good Crazy, serves as a hub for artists to share their work, experiment with new ideas, and grow together.

“I want Good Crazy to be a home for music that defies boundaries — a place where everyone feels welcome.“

She explains. The label’s first releases, including tracks from international artists, have already set the tone for its inclusive, innovative ethos.

Barbara Nicole‘s collaborative spirit extends to her fans as well. Through social media and live performances, she maintains an open dialogue, sharing the inspirations behind her songs and the stories that define her life. By fostering these connections, she creates a sense of community that resonates deeply with her audience.

Life Off The Stage

When she’s not performing or producing, Barbara Nicole enjoys a life as vibrant as her music. She finds solace in simple joys like cooking, a passion rooted in her Italian heritage. Her kitchen often becomes a creative sanctuary, where she experiments with recipes and belts out melodies while preparing meals.

Family is another cornerstone of Barbara Nicole‘s life. Despite her busy schedule, she prioritizes spending time with loved ones, often sharing meals and traditions that remind her of her roots. One particularly endearing tradition is celebrating milestones with donuts, a nod to her great-grandmother’s love for the treat.

Barbara Nicole also values the importance of giving back. She has expressed plans to tour children’s hospitals in the U.S., bringing her music to young patients and using her platform to spread joy. Her commitment to kindness and community is a reflection of her belief that music has the power to heal and unite people from all walks of life.

Looking Ahead

Barbara Nicole‘s journey is far from over, with exciting projects, live performances, and ambitious goals shaping her future. In this section, we delve into her plans for creating innovative music, captivating live shows, and making an even greater impact on the global music scene.

Upcoming Projects

Barbara Nicole‘s future is as exciting as her vibrant past. With a series of projects in the pipeline, she’s poised to further solidify her place in the music world. One of her most ambitious undertakings is her next studio album, which she plans to record in Ibiza this summer.

“Ibiza is not just where I perform but where I create.“

She says. This upcoming project will blend her signature sound with new influences, offering fans a fresh perspective on her evolving artistry.

Her label, Good Crazy, is also gearing up for an action-packed year, with several releases lined up from a diverse roster of artists. Barbara Nicole envisions the label as a beacon for experimental, genre-defying music, and she’s actively seeking submissions from underground talent worldwide. Additionally, she plans to host Good Crazy parties, bringing her unique brand of music and community to cities around the globe.

Touring and Live Performances

Barbara Nicole‘s plans for live performances reflect her drive to push boundaries and redefine what it means to experience electronic music. She’s preparing for a series of hybrid sets that incorporate live instruments, drawing inspiration from acts like LP Giobbi and WhoMadeWho.

“I want my performances to be immersive, blending the energy of a DJ set with the intimacy of live vocals and instruments.“

Fans can look forward to catching her at iconic venues across the U.S. and Europe, including Ibiza, where she’ll spend much of the summer performing and creating. Other dream destinations on her touring list include Coachella‘s Do.Lab and Amsterdam’s Dekmantel Festival, showcasing her ambition to take her sound to the most prestigious stages.

Big Goals and Aspirations

Barbara Nicole‘s vision for the future is bold and inspiring. Among her most cherished goals is performing on Saturday Night Live, a milestone she sees as a testament to her artistry and cultural impact. Winning a Grammy is another aspiration, reflecting her commitment to producing music that transcends boundaries and touches lives.

Beyond personal achievements, Barbara Nicole is deeply motivated by her desire to give back. Her dream of touring children’s hospitals in the U.S. exemplifies her belief in the power of music to heal and inspire.

“Music has given me so much, and I want to use it to bring light and joy to others, especially those who need it most.“

Barbara Nicole’s Q&A Interview With Techno Airlines

Q1- What inspires you the most in your life, and how do you incorporate these sources of inspiration into your creative process?

Answer: “Love and every day life. I walk around observing everyday and capturing what I see. The other day I was walking in Miami and saw the most beautiful purple flowers and it reminded me of the song from Alice in Wonderland, in a world of my own. Most of my writing comes from the beauty and pain of everyday life including my romantic partners. I’m a double Pisces so I feel everything which is a lot. So I have a plethora to write from and expressing myself through my music helps me to heal. Because I am so emotional, sensitive and intuitive, I feel I write from a very authentic place to which people can relate and that the songs will resonate with them. It’s a blessing and also my curse.”

Q2- What period or event in your artistic journey has had the most significant impact on you?

Answer: “Moving to Ibiza, Spain this past summer. I was feeling so drained from life in New York and very uninspired to be honest. I love New York City but it wasn’t very healthy for me to be there this time around. The divorce was weighing on me, gray, cold weather and physically I tore a ligament in my foot which was really painful and making life there even more difficult. So with my momentum of releases, press coverage and DJ gigs, a good DJ friend from San Francisco, encouraged me to move to Ibiza for the summer over a giant bowl of Pho. It seemed really exciting and kinda scary so that was a good sign it was the right thing to pursue. I’m really grateful to John Acquaviva for helping me get set up with a cozy home, discovering local cuisines and introducing me to the right folks and authentic people to take my career to the next level. I joked that this would be the ‘summer of love’ post divorce. And with love, I meant myself because it was time to fall in love with myself, which I did. I developed a healthy daily routine, practiced good self-care, strengthened my voice, got clear on my vision for my career and wrote some really incredible music. Not to mention I ate the best food of my life and danced a ton haha.”

Q3- Which three words would you use to describe your life, and why?

Answer: “I only need two, ‘Good Crazy’. It’s sometimes scary, overwhelming and lonely but I really feel that I am living. I feel everything deeply and try to trust my gut and instincts when making decisions. There are times when I do a lot of research and put together the pros and cons before making a big decision and other times I listen to the call of spontaneity. I spread my joy and light to everyone I meet and hope to inspire others who are following along my journey. Have courage to make hard choices, be kind and have fun!”

Q4- Can you share some insights about the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your career and how you overcame them?

Answer: “Imposter syndrome. It’s funny because with more success I am finding the more doubt is really creeping in. My imposter syndrome stems from the fact that I don’t know music theory (and probably issues with my Dad) so there’s times when I’m producing and I tell myself I suck. I still feel like I have a lot to prove and I’m trying to be more kind and gentle to myself. When I get in these moods it helps to think of the end listener, my fans, and their stories of how my music has touched them. Walking, meditating and talking with friends also is very therapeutic for me.”

Q5- How do you aim to interact and communicate with your audience or viewers through your life?

Answer: “I am using social media more to show more aspects of my life and share the meaning behind my songs. I was having dinner with good girlfriends in Madrid and they were on the edge of their seat listening to the relationship gone sour that inspired ‘Wasting Time’ which will come out next year. Before I was writing a lot of poetry which reveals clues of past lovers but now I am sharing those stories with my fans. I am also singing more in my videos (Instagram reels and TikTok) because I know my voice really touches people. It’s also really amazing to see how many young girls follow my music. I met one girl in New York City after I performed in Times Square. She stayed with her mom and sister to take photos. She said she saw one of my sets and it inspired her to learn to DJ. There’s no greater feeling in the world than knowing I can inspire future artists and leaders who will make this world a better place.”

Q6- How has your artistic approach or style evolved over time?

Answer: “It started as a very funky disco style which was very inspired by the music my mom played growing up and kind of playing known crowd pleasers but now I’m truly going back to my roots. I grew up loving No Doubt’s Tragic Kingdom album, Avril Lavigne and Taking Back Sunday. I got a concussion from moshing at Warped Tour even! I’m going back to these pop punk influences, which are truly my roots. I still love disco and ground my music in the groove but I’m going way darker and more experimental with my sound. It would be a dream to collaborate with Fever Ray, Illangelo, Sega Bodega, Arca and Glasser.”

Q7- Which of your works holds a special meaning for you and why?

Answer: “I’ll always be proud of Palm Dreams. It’s my first album I released earlier this year and chronicles my life in my early 20s living in New York City. I have incredible memories living in San Francisco and recording it in Berkeley, CA with my now good friend Jim Greer. I miss the Sistory Thai we had every night and living in a world of that album for two weeks. It’s a really special body of work that takes listeners on a journey of disco, deep house, indie rock and progressive house, showcasing my love of breaking and bending genres. And if you listen to lyrics you’ll hear so many New York City establishments that I go back to now and recall many special memories.”

Q8- What are your thoughts on the role and impact of your life in society?

Answer: “Wow this is such a deep, thought provoking question. I’ll answer it simply – I know I’m here to spread light and joy through my music. I’m only able to spread so much light, kindness and openness because I’ve experienced a lot of pain, which I won’t get into in this interview. I hope people feel less afraid to make hard choices, embrace their true souls and walk through life a little lighter knowing me and experiencing my music. I really do feel that my love is having a ripple effect and hopefully I can help make this world a little less cruel. I give as much as I can whether it’s all of me to my music, caring from my family and friends or donating to important causes and supporting other artists.”

Q9- What does your creative process look like, and do you have any routines or rituals when working on a piece?

Answer: “I have ten steps on my daily routine which include: a walk, journaling, plenty of water, affirmation cards, chakra opener, breathing exercises, vocal warmups, gratitude reflection and seeing art and making art. If I don’t complete these activities I truly don’t feel my most energetic and grounded. This is my foundation that allows me to create and open myself to my muse. When I start a new song I usually start from a feeling in my journal. Other times I want to do an edit of something (i.e. taking a classic vocal and incorporating a scene from a movie) that’s surprising and quirky, my style, and that makes me laugh or brings me a smile. And then I’ll go into the studio with a very specific task of recording top lines (vocals) for another DJ/producer or I am hired to remix a track. But it all flows from my healthy habits and priming.”

Q10- What are some projects or goals you hope to achieve with your life in the future?

Answer: “I have 3 big life goals: I will perform on Saturday Night Live, win a Grammy and do a US tour in childrens’ hospitals and I will stay happy and humble along the way.”

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Barbara Nicole is more than just a DJ and producer; she’s a storyteller, a trailblazer, and a force for good in the music world. Her journey, from her Italian-American roots in Boston to the global dance music stage, is a testament to her resilience, creativity, and passion. Through her music, label, and advocacy, Barbara Nicole continues to inspire fans and fellow artists alike.

As she looks to the future, Barbara Nicole remains grounded in her mission to connect, empower, and create. Whether she’s crafting genre-bending tracks, mentoring emerging talent, or sharing her personal story, she leaves an indelible mark on everyone she touches.

For fans and followers, Barbara Nicole‘s message is clear: embrace your journey, trust your instincts, and never stop chasing your dreams. As she puts it;

“Life is good crazy — and that’s exactly how I want it to be.“