Nakia, an iconic queer artist who has long made his mark on the Austin music scene, returns with an exhilarating new single, “Hold On To Your Heart”. With over two decades of experience captivating audiences worldwide, Nakia’s powerful and soulful voice has graced stages alongside legendary artists like Alejandro Escovedo, Sharon Jones, and BB King. Recognized not just for his musical prowess but also for his unwavering commitment to community, Nakia was honored as a “Local Legend” by Matthew McConaughey in 2020 for his efforts in supporting Austin’s musicians and venues during the pandemic.
As he evolves as an artist, Nakia continues to explore new creative avenues. Recent ventures include composing for film and TV, along with co-writing and recording a 15-song musical titled “Dueling Pianos” with collaborator Joshua R. Pangborn. A three-time former Recording Academy Texas Board Governor and a member of Songwriters Of North America, Nakia remains a powerful voice in the industry, inspiring others with his talent and advocacy.
Now, with “Hold On To Your Heart”, Nakia dives into darker, edgier territory. He describes the track as “a dark and ethereal alternative rock piece that encapsulates the thrill of cruising for connection within the gay club scene.” With haunting melodies and an immersive soundscape, the song invites listeners on a journey through the vibrant yet shadowy nightlife, resonating with anyone who has ever sought adventure amidst the pulsating rhythm of the night.
“This song is heavier and edgier than anything I’ve done before,” Nakia explains. “The lyrics are darker and more cryptic, reflecting the intensity of the emotions involved.” He took a hands-on approach to production, working closely with a select group of co-producers and musicians to craft the song’s unique sound.
For this release, Nakia opted for a lyric video, stating, “Lyric videos are a fantastic way to convey the themes and imagery of a song without the need for a full music video production.” The visuals are dark and enigmatic, echoing the ambiance of late-night venues. Smoky scenes and dimly lit hallways set the stage, while neon, glowing lyrics vibe with the energy of the club, creating a sexy and curious atmosphere where anything can happen.
When asked about his favorite aspect of the lyric video, Nakia shared, “I appreciate how literally dark it is. When you’re out at the club or cruising for fun, the low light often makes it hard to see what’s around you. I wanted the viewer to take a moment to really absorb what’s happening on the screen. Plus, I love that it features body diversity—fat is sexy too, y’all!”
Looking ahead, Nakia is enthusiastic about what’s next: “I plan to release more singles and lyric videos! Each song from the new album will come out as a single first.” To stay updated on his journey and new releases, you can follow Nakia on social media at @nakia, except on TikTok, where he’s @nakia.net.
Check out the official lyric video for Nakia’s “Hold On To Your Heart” on YouTube Now!