Hollywood Dame Exclusive Interview – Debi Nova

With six Grammy Award nominations and a number one dance single under her belt, singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Debi Nova is ready to make her mark on the rest of the world. In March 2010, Decca Records will release Nova’s genre-defying, debut album “Luna Nueva.” The album is an electrifying combination of irresistible Latin rhythms and potent pop smarts that showcase this vivacious artist’s considerable musical gifts (she plays piano, guitar, bass and more) as well as her rich Latina heritage.

Already a massive star in her native Costa Rica, Debi has toured with both Ricky Martin and Sergio Mendes as a featured vocalist and has performed for more than 8 million people globally. As a songwriter, the Costa Rican beauty has written hit songs for Belinda and RBD, two of Latin Americas biggest artists. Since the beginning of the year Debi’s been in the studio aiming to create a sound that blends all the influences and musical experiences she’s had. Combining her passion for Bossa Nova, Hip Hop and lots in between, a sound that Debi affectionately terms “Tropical Soul.” I had the chance to chat with Debi about her interests in music, her passion for surfing, and her plans for the future. You can read about it below.

When did you first realize you had an interest in music?

I think it was one of those things where there really wasn’t a specific moment, I’ve always known it was there. I began playing piano at age 4, so I’ve always been in front of it and had the ability of being exposed to music. Its just been really natural for me, never a question. When I became a teenager I was at that point to where I had to figure out music as a singer and if I wanted to pursue that part.

How did you break into the music industry?

I moved to LA about 7 years ago and just got really busy meeting writers and musicians and singing in local clubs. I kept myself busy. I met Sergio Mendes at an audition and toured some with him and things just took off from there.

You’ve worked with artists like Sean Paul, Black Eyed Peas, and Ricky Martin. Who are some other artists you’d love to work with?

Alot! Number one on my list has got to be Sting. I’ve always been a fan of his. I love him, love his song writing, love his bass playing, and would love to collaborate with him.

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Your debut album is due out soon. How long have you been working on it?

Feels like a lifetime! I started in the summer of 2007, so about 2 years now.

On your blog, we’ve seen a video of you surfing – and quite well! Is that another passion of yours?

Yes, definitely. I grew up in Costa Rica where the water is warm and the waves are beautiful. I grew up with surfing in my blood. It really helps to clear my mind. Its just beautiful, helps me to keep in touch with nature and to help me keep in shape. I dont have as much time for it now as I did before, but every chance I get I like to be out there surfing.

On your blog when you write, very often you end your posts with “Pura Vida.” For the people who don’t know, what does that mean and does it have special meaning to you?

“Pura Vida” means literally ‘pure life.’ Its a saying in Costa Rica, kind of our ‘Aloha.’ Its a way to say everything – Goodbye, Hello, How are you doing… Its a very common phrase. We use it so much because it really represents the essence of our country – we have no army, very eco-conscience. Its a happy feeling, feel laid back and that it brings peace. It does have a meaning to me. I use it so much to represent my country.

Besides singing, you also play a few instruments. What instruments do you play? Do you prefer singing or playing more?

Piano is my main instrument, playing it since I was young. I picked up the guitar and the bass a little while later. But I feel most comfortable with the piano. Its my first love. I found the piano before I found my voice. But with singing, I love the lyrics and getting lost in them. I’d have to say they are equally close to my heart. Its a tie between them.

What are some of your plans for promoting your album when it comes out? Will you be touring in the US?

Yes. I’m doing some radio promotional tours right now, where we visit several cities and I play my music for the radio station and we do showcases and interviews. Right now, I’m shooting for a fall tour in the US and Latin America.

What are your plans, musical wise, for the future?

Just to keep making music in whatever shape or form. Soon after my album is released I will start on my second one and get that out as soon as I can. I would love to score some movies. Just keep active.

Who are some of your musical inspirations?

Everything inspires me. I grew up listening to everything from rock and roll to jazz to reggae to salsa to pop. The core of my musical inspirations come from female musicians and songwriters like Feist and Sheryl Crow.

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