Scottish-born singer songwriter Nyree Huyser, has over a decade of worldwide success in the music industry. At age 19 she began her career performing in top European Abba tribute show, “ABBAMania”, with whom she toured across Europe over 6 years and in 2012 returned to partake in a televised tour of the Philippines. Now based in Christchurch, New Zealand, Nyree has made a name for herself as one of New Zealand’s top performers, having graced the stages of many sporting events and major festivals, including headlining the annual Coca Cola Christmas in the Park for four years running.
Nyree has written and featured on numerous electronic dance releases, establishing a highly acclaimed reputation among producers in the EDM industry. Nyree is one of our most active members, and with a powerful, Kelly Clarkson-meets-Jessie J like voice she always delivers high quality vocals. As one of the top-rated female singers on Vocalizr, we wanted to find out a little more about her.
How did your journey as a singer songwriter begin?
I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember, but I first started singing professionally at 19 when I was scouted for the European ABBA tribute band ‘ABBAmania’. For a few years I continued to perform tribute shows for artists such as Beyonce, Jessie J and Katy Perry as a way of figuring out who I was as an artist. In my mid-twenties I finally did just that and began writing and performing my own material.
What’s your singing dream? Any major goals?
I would absolutely love to collaborate with a major artist! If I were to name one it would definitely be Calvin Harris. Other than that I just love to inspire others with my music. I want people to listen to my songs and feel better about themselves and the world around them!
Is there a particular warm up process you have before recording?
My style of singing often involves very high, strong notes so it is crucial that I warm up. I usually start with a few breathing exercises, some yells and vocal slides and then belt out some higher register scales. I also always have one or two rehearsal runs through the song before I record. I always make a nice warm drink to have with me too.
Tell us about your songwriting process?
I am fascinated with songwriting, with the different structures, techniques and feels to different songs, so when I listen to music I am constantly analysing and taking mental notes that will help me when I write. However, when it comes down to it, the most important thing I do is feel the music. I put on the track and just sing along! When something feels right, sounds right or I get an idea or concept I like, I run with it!
What’s your biggest success to date?
I’ve had lots of little successes in the EDM industry. I had the privilege to sing alongside Pussycat Doll Kimberly Wyatt on Bodybangers hit Speed of Light, I am featured on Rene Rodrigezz’s track Strangers on his EP We Are and a few years back found my voice played to millions on the hardcore track Lifting Me Higher by Dougal and Gammer! My biggest live performance has to be alongside some of New Zealand’s most talented artists for Coca Cola’s Christmas in the Park. I’ve also recently had my first baby boy so I’m proud to be a successful working mum!
Which artists do you find inspiring? Why?
I am incredibly inspired by Beyonce. She is such an inspirational songwriter, highly innovative with her music, has arguably one of the best voices of our time and she is also not afraid to play around with different styles and genres of music. Her album Lemonade is just mind-blowing!
Do you have a home studio? If so, tell us about your setup?
I have a very basic at-home studio set up purely to record my vocals. It’s a Focusrite iTrack Studio that I use with my Mac and it’s been absolutely fantastic! As I am not by any means a music producer, I don’t have a massive set up and if you are a good quality vocalist, I really don’t think you need one! I put more of my expertise into songwriting and recording the best quality vocals I can. The fantastic producers I work with add in the extra studio magic at the other end.
Do you have a favourite microphone? If so, why?
I don’t have a particular favourite microphone. I love how different microphones can create different vocal effects, from real nice crisp modern vocal recording to a more 1950’s inspired sound. It’s really interesting working with all different types.
How did you find singing jobs before Vocalizr?
I have an agent I use for live performance bookings and I usually organised recording work through the contacts I had or through applying for work online.
Has Vocalizr opened doors for you?
Without a doubt Vocalizr has created a whole other world of contacts for me as I am sure it has for other vocalists and producers. It is a fantastic way of bringing producers and vocalists together in the one place.
Have you made new connections through Vocalizr?
I have made lots of new connections through Vocalizr! Several of which I have worked with on more than one occasion. It has also widened my network in the industry and provided a great deal of support and inspiration for my artistry.