The Riffhard Podcast Nik Nocturnal (Termina, NIK NXK)
Oct 24, 2022
In this chat, Nik Nocturnal, a prolific musician and Twitch streamer, shares his insights on balancing music with online content creation. He discusses the importance of writing for listeners rather than just showcasing technical skills, revealing how audience engagement can shape songwriting. Nik emphasizes the value of spontaneity in content creation and the evolution of his projects, including his collaboration with vocalists. The conversation also touches on navigating online hate and fostering supportive communities for artists in the metal scene.
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Listen As Practice
- Listen to music constantly to improve songwriting even if you aren't practicing the instrument.
- Use active, curious listening to decode melodies, intervals, and production choices that inspire new ideas.
Write For Replay, Not Showmanship
- Writing to serve a general listener matters more than showing off technical skill.
- Aim for riffs and melodies that activate an immediate emotional reaction, not just musician approval.
Use Technique To Serve The Song
- Balance technical development with songwriting; don't dismiss improving craft.
- Use your technical vocabulary to spice simple structures rather than obsessively showing off complexity.