NARDIA – „Is It You“ + Exclusive Interview

Thank you very much for your time! Before we introduce your new release to our readers – what kind of drink would you recommend to sip on while they listen to your new music?

Ooh, love this! I’d say a strong Negroni cocktail with a touch of citrus—or if you’re vibing something non-alcoholic, a spiced chai with oat milk. My music has layers—it’s smooth, bold, a little bittersweet, and hopefully leaves you with a warm feeling after the first sip… or song.

Please give us an update about – new single, new album, tour dates, new videos?!

My new single „Is It You“ is a deeply personal song for me. On the surface, it’s a sultry R&B track with a nostalgic groove—but underneath, it’s about that vulnerable moment when you’re standing at the edge of a new connection and asking, “Is this real?” It speaks to the emotional residue we carry from past heartbreaks, and the cautious hope we hold onto when we meet someone who might just be different. It’s that internal push and pull between fear and trust, resistance and surrender. The upcoming album which I recently completed between Melbourne, Nashville and Memphis, Own Every Scar, is the heart and soul of everything I’ve lived through in recent years. It’s about reclaiming our wounds—not just surviving them, but learning to wear them with pride. It’s a reminder that our scars tell stories of where we’ve been, how far we’ve come, and the strength we’ve found along the way. This album is me standing in my truth—unapologetically—and inviting others to do the same.

The album will be available later this year on all platforms, and we’ve just opened pre-orders for limited edition vinyl and merch which can be purchased from my website! Tour dates across the USA are locked in, and looking to hit Europe towards the end of August. I also have a few music videos are also on the way—so stay tuned!

We live in times of many conspiracy theories. Which, harmless, theory would you wish were true? (For example Dinos living inside Earth or E.T. living in a home in California)

I really want to believe that music vibrates at a frequency that can heal physical pain and emotional wounds. I mean, I sort of believe it already. But imagine if hospitals prescribed Marvin Gaye, Aretha, or some live jazz as actual treatment? I’d be first in line.

What fashion style or brand would best describe your music?

Imagine if Princess Highway and Coco Chanel had a soulful lovechild raised on vintage vinyl and lived-in leather. My music is feminine but strong, timeless but unexpected. It blends soft silhouettes and nostalgic charm with bold statements, textured layers, and a touch of elegance that’s never afraid to get a little wild. Like a structured blazer over a flowing vintage dress—graceful, grounded, and a little rebellious. It’s music that dresses with meaning: polished on the surface, but always with a story underneath.

Tell us more about your songs! Topics! Message!?

My songs often explore identity, healing, emotional resilience, love, and letting go. I’ve been through a lot, and music has always been a safe space to speak the things I couldn’t say out loud. The message is always: you are enough, scars and all. Whether it’s through a sultry groove or a powerful ballad, I want people to feel seen.

Beside music, do you have any special talents?

Absolutely! I’d call myself a creative all-rounder. I design and sew my own outfits, bags, and accessories—there’s something incredibly satisfying about turning a piece of fabric into something wearable and expressive. For me, fashion is a beautiful form of personal storytelling.

I’m also deeply passionate about interior design. I’ve fully renovated two of my own homes, completely transforming them from the ground up. I’m always reimagining spaces, moving things around, and hunting for unique vintage pieces that add soul and texture. I see interior design much like songwriting—it’s about creating a mood, a flow, a story within the walls. Every space should feel lived-in, intentional, and full of character.

And of course, food is a huge part of who I am. With Italian and Filipino roots, cooking runs deep in my blood. I make a killer pasta sauce from scratch—no shortcuts, just love and patience—and I’m equally passionate about balancing bold, bright flavours in Asian dishes. Cooking is a creative outlet for me, but also a meditative practice. It’s where I reset, reconnect, and nourish others.

Whether I’m designing a dress, curating a home, or stirring a pot of sugo, it all comes back to the same thing—creating something honest, beautiful, and filled with heart.

Name 5 things we all should know about you as an artist?!

My music is born from truth—even the messy, uncomfortable parts. I believe honesty and vulnerability is where the magic lives.

My foundation is blues, soul, R&B and jazz, but I love bending genres and creating a sound that feels timeless yet entirely my own.

I’ve shared stages with legends, but I still get butterflies before every show—it means I still care deeply about every note I sing

My performances are emotional journeys—you’ll laugh, cry, dance, and maybe even walk away feeling a little more connected to yourself.

I believe music is a healing force—one vulnerable lyric at a time, it can open hearts, shift energy, and change the world.

The road so far…. who or what was your biggest support??

I’ve been incredibly lucky to be surrounded by a village of people who have believed in me, lifted me, and walked beside me through every high and low. In Australia, my deepest thanks go to my incredible team—Ivan Khatchoyan, Mat Robb, and Adrian Montegnese, who’ve each helped shape my sound and vision. A special shout-out to the MBAS (Melbourne Blues Appreciation Society)—particularly John Durr and Elly Mantzaris—for their unwavering support and for giving me the opportunity to compete internationally.

My bandmates, who joined me on that unforgettable journey to the International Blues Challenge in Memphis—Justin Yap, Yuri Pavlinov, Mark Aird, and Lucas Taranto—I couldn’t have done it without them. Their talent and loyalty mean the world to me.

Of course, my family has been my rock—my mum, dad, stepdad Russell and cousins —their constant love, encouragement, and belief in me have kept me grounded through it all.

And now, I’m so excited to be growing with my new team in the USA. A huge thank you to Darin James, and to my new collaborators and producers Boo Mitchell, CC, and all the incredible musicians who’ve brought my songs to life with such heart and soul.

But honestly, the journey has been just as much about the people I’ve met along the way. And of course, my fans—your love and connection to the music continues to move me in the most unexpected and powerful ways. You remind me why I do this.

A question you’d like to answer, but never been asked in an interview before?! + Answer pls

Q: What would you say to your younger self, just starting out in music?

A: I’d tell her, “Don’t dim your light to make others comfortable. You’re allowed to take up space. The right people will find you when you’re being your most authentic self.”

Instagram: @nardiamusic