German singer Nico Santos is a global superstar in the making. So far he has racked up over 42m Spotify streams 23m hits on YouTube and yesterday (May 1st) he arrived in the UK to record a new version of his hit single ‘Rooftops’ with rising UK sensation Samantha Harvey.

Here we speak exclusively to Nico Santos to discuss his collaboration with Samantha Harvey, touring plans, album release and much more;

Growing up who inspired your love of music?

Basically my parents and Michael Jackson. These were the ones that inspired me to do music. My parents were both musicians and always gave me the chance to do what I loved the most. 

When did you decide to pursue music as your career?

I always knew that I’d be doing music. There wasn’t anything that would come close to it. I was 3 when I started impersonating Michael Jackson and I was 12 when I wrote my first original songs. My dad used to have a studio where I recorded them. So basically all my life!  

How would you describe your sound to new listeners?

I think it’s a mix between urban and pop. I write a lot for other artists, rappers, pop singers and films. So I try to blend that into my music. I love to experiment by mixing different genres. 

What do you hope the fans’ take from your music?

That they feel the energy of the song. You can let everything out if you scream out the chorus. I’ve received really inspiring letters and messages from people about how the song really helped them through tough times. 

When writing new material where do you look to for inspiration?

I listen to all kinds of music. Depending on the day. So It can be anything that comes up whenever, wherever. Most of the times I just improvise on the piano and see what comes afterwords.

You’re currently in London to record a duet with Samantha Harvey, how did that collab come about?

I showed my team videos of Samantha and they reached out to her! That was great and I love how the duet version turned out! I couldn’t be happier, she’s an amazing artist and so much fun to hang out with! 

You will be releasing a new version of ‘Rooftop’ with Samantha, when can fans expect to hear the track?

Very soon! We just recorded the Video, so the wait won’t be too long!

Do you have any touring plans lined up?

Yes! This summer I’ll be performing at amazing festivals with artists that I’m a fan myself. And in [the] autumn I’ll probably be going on tour myself with the band! I really can’t wait! 

Will you be releasing an album this year?

Yes! I’ve working on it for over a year and a half. I’ve recorded over 150 songs. There a still some topics and themes I wanna write about but I hope I’ll be able to release it after this summer! 

Make sure you follow Nico on Twitter @itsNicoSantos to keep up to date with all his latest music and tour news!

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