Justin Nozuka

Humble and fresh Justin Nozuka and I chatted about the Juno awards in which he was nominated for Adult Alternative Album Of The Year.

This is Justin’s second nomination.  His first album Holly released in 2007 did beautifully, resulting in a US and European tour.  I strongly believe his success to be a direct result of his hands on approach to producing, songwriting, and belting out his signature soulful tunes in a way only he can.  Recording on his own for his first album, he took on a producer for his second and hasn’t looked back since.  Staying with the same idea for his album You I Wind Land and Sea, his process remains the same – being real alongside his producing confidante.

The result?

Phenomenal songs that relax you to the core (he has been fully integrated into all my iPod playlists).  Amongst my faves are My Heart Is Yours, Criminal and Heartless.

While writing he likes to stay grounded, connected, and relaxed to ensure an organic flow of work.  Not one to allow too many outside influences affect his music, he sticks to something of an isolated creative process.  Seeking inspiration from his brothers (people that he admits to sharing a deep connection with, otherwise known as”soul brothers” – a familiar term that made me smile, knowing the feeling), his music refuses to turn it’s back on reality (hardship, love and overcoming obstacles).

Preparing for the Juno’s, Justin took a trip to Diesel to create his look.  Having only a couple of hours to get ready for the evening by himself in the past, this year he was treated to full-on star treatment.  Appreciative of the stylists and camera crews following in tow (but feeling a bit out of place regardless), he admits to favouring a bit more of a casual scene when it comes to all aspects of his craft (image included).  Generally one for comfy casuals, he will always make the exception when it comes to luxe special occasions (check out his Juno getup)… so long of course as it rings true to his personality.  Down to earth priorities can always be relied on when it comes to this earthy Canadian dude.

Throughout our conversation, Justin shared that he would love to meet other artists that run their own projects (and don’t let their projects run them).  Amongst his favourites are Arcade Fire, K-Os, Sam Roberts, Neil Young and Feist.  Before falling for music, he dreamt of playing in the NHL (a hobby he still keeps alive and strong when with friends).  Justin was proudly part of the K’Naan “Waving Flag” recording alongside some of Canada’s most influential performing artists last year (an effort to bring awareness and raise money for survivors of the earthquake in Haiti).  Flying to Vancouver was a career highlight where he briefly met inspiration K’Naan (whom he hopes to sit down with in further one day and talk possible collaborations).  We’ve got our fingers crossed for Justin – with a soulful voice and positive personality, he is winning fans over effortlessly on an international front (the sky is his limit when it comes to potential and opportunity opening up before him).

All-in-all I had a great talk with Mr. Nozuka.  With a refreshingly positive attitude (that wasn’t too uptight to admit that the interruptions on the other end of the phone line were from his beloved kitty jumping around), he is a super cool guy I hope to one day chat face-to-face with!”