Meet Nita Perez | Musician and Singer-songwriter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nita Perez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nita, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Well, music has always been an integral part of my life—my mother used to play as a bassist in New Orleans, and she is featured playing on my upcoming single Lighthouse. From a young age, I knew I wanted to be a singer and especially write lyrics that would have a positive impact on people. It was just one of those things that I knew instinctively in my heart, “I was meant for this. I can do this.” I hope to continue my career well into the future. It has been an honor to create with people I love.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m an independent artist based out of New Orleans, Louisiana. I’ve been performing since the age of six and writing since nine. I think growing up so close to the birthplace of jazz definitely gave my voice and style flavors and tones heard usually from blues and jazz musicians. I like to reflect my heritage and background in the songs I sing. As I mentioned, I began writing at the age of nine and I released my first album with Phil Kanakis when I was 13. I remember thinking, “wow, I did that.” Though I must admit, despite the fact I was used to performing other people’s songs, singing pieces I wrote myself proved somewhat of a challenge. I was very shy at the time and afraid of the reaction to my music, which was an expression on my own feelings from the time. I’m glad to say, even though nervousness will never fade completely, I realized that as soon as I begin my performance, it transforms into something more that I can share with my audience: Excitement.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Let me take you on a ride, dear readers, to the Big Easy. One of my favorite places to eat at in Hollywood South is Mona’s, Lebanese cuisine that doesn’t disappoint. Not feeling pita bread? How about pizza? Cafe Roma’s Margherita pizza is their specialty and staple. Funny story, one time when I was around 12 my mother took me and I had tried ordering a Piña Colada, not realizing that my favorite snowball flavor was an alcoholic beverage… Oops! Maybe you’d like to sample some beignets? Cafe du Monde is known for having some of the best. In terms of entertainment, there’s honestly too many things to do in New Orleans. If I had to choose a couple, I’d say you’d definitely have to watch a show at the Saenger Theatre on Canal—the entire ceiling has twinkling star lights that gives the performance hall a magical feeling. And of course, while in New Orleans you have to go see the French Market, which is a giant open market on North Peters street. They have everything there from fresh fruit to instruments to handmade jewelry, a perfect place for avid shoppers. You could also visit Dr John’s and Marie Laveau’s respective graves if you’re into the voodoo scene. There’s something for everyone in New Orleans.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to dedicate my shout-out to my mother Renee Thibodeaux Perez and to my father Isel Perez for supporting me and always having my back. I’d also like to thank Phil Kanakis, my mentor and my friend, and Holly Fischer for giving me so much of their time and knowledge.

Website: https://www.nitaperez.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nitaperez007?igsh=cnJtcjlvaXZ0NGpl&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nitaperez007

Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UC_1c6AhNbnl8YJbpM1ZeOmw?si=SHogF9mI4E0F2AeF

Image Credits
Renee Thibodeaux Perez