Compelling, intimate and reflective, Melbourne storyteller Nikki Wishart expresses music of the heart - from the hope and the epic highs of connection to the pain and utter confusion of unlabelled and undefined love. Infused with thoughtful lyricism and an innate, authentic energy, Nikki is dynamic in her approach; infusing raw indie and acoustic elements to paint soaring and honest portraits of passion and heartbreak. Taking inspiration from fellow singer-songwriters including Holly Humberstone and Chelsea Cutler, Nikki’s musical style has an endearing sincerity that is only conjured by those who are committed to expressing universal emotions and creating connection with each and every one of her listeners. A natural sonic poet, Nikki Wishart is one to experience in 2022 and beyond.
Wishful thinking - Gracie Abrams
Off the incredible album 'This is what it feels like', the initial guitar immediately captured me, followed by the conversational style of lyrics. This is something that I have tried to bring into my works. The lyric 'Do you regret how I see you now' really struck a chord with me. It's smart; it doesn't pose the question of 'do you regret what you did' instead, do you regret how those actions made the writer shift their option.
Villain - Maisie Peters
This song makes the list not only because of its lyricism but its relatability, which is what the best songs have. I love the delicate balance of sass and hurt that Maisie brings to the track. If I were to pinpoint a line, I'd choose "Now you're kissing that girl I shouldn't worry about. How do you think I'm dealing?". It encapsulates the expectation for everything to be fine and the hurt behind actions and lies.
Crying During Sex - Carol Abes
This is a recent addition to my list. I am obsessed with the songwriting and production of this track. It intertwines natural and synthesised instruments to the perfect blend. "You fall in love with peoplе who aren't bad for you Not bad for you doesn't mean that they're right for you It just means that they're kind to you So simple like that." I resonate with the idea that just because a person is kind to you doesn't necessarily mean that they are right for you. This song illustrates that motif well.
Out of this car - Emily Weisband
I love the use of statements at the start of this track. The impact and confidence that it brings sets the tone for the rest of the song exceptionally successfully. This is accompanied by a warm, rich piano which assists in driving the song along.
Drop dead - Holly Humberstone
Holly has been a significant influence on my writing all around. Her lyricism and melodic ability are outstanding. The ability to strip back a song with the vocals truly as the focus is something I take and have tried to implement in my own music.
Hazel - Carlie Hanson
I first heard this song back in 2019 when it was first released and have had it on my playlists ever since. I'm drawn to the production in this track and the textural layers that grab you back at every turn, especially with quite a similar melody throughout.
We Used To - Vera Blue
I drew the ethereal build-up from this track and the next with a soft and strip-backed beginning. Vera Blue is an excellent songwriter, constantly finding creative and innovative ways to explain such everyday situations.
All I Want - Kodaline
I love this song for its seamless transitions. It immediately creates a Waltz like pace that draws you in to the point that swings into the chorus. Its large, dramatic instrumental was initially something we were going to emulate in my music, but we haven't quite found the right moment yet.
This is how you fall in love - Jeremy Zucker and Chelsea Cutler
This song puts me in a weird but fantastic trance. It's one of my top driving songs. It's soothing, calming, and allows me to breathe. Jeremy Zucker and Chelsea Cutler have a fantastic way of not overcomplicating things but still being extremely smart with lyrics and textural layers. I listened to this song a lot while making my latest single, 'compromised'
The 1 - Taylor Swift
Where do I start with Taylor Swift, an influence of mine since way back when. I was especially drawn to this album and song. I love the vocal execution on this track, and I think that comes through on the line 'if you wanted me, you really should have shown' with the scooped inflection towards the end.