Meet Nick Richardson | Artist, Designer, Producer, & Audio Engineer

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

Hi Nick, how do you define success?
I believe success isn’t a set point or goal. It’s something we can accomplish every day by always striving to be the best version of ourselves we can be. It’s hard for me to imagine someone reaching a certain goal and thinking “This is it. I can stop trying now”. Life is fluid, and it always presents changes and new challenges. I think being a successful person means always taking a step forward each day, even if it’s small or incremental. I believe stagnation and never trying is the only way someone can fail. I would define success as a system for life: to always push forward and not give up on yourself.

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’ve been producing music for about 13 years, and have been making graphic designs for about a decade. I’ve always loved being able to design my own cover art, logos, and promotional material. Being involved with every piece of the puzzle allows me to craft the entire experience to my liking.

There were many times growing up where I was ridiculed and judged for spending so much time making weird songs in my bedroom, but sooner or later I brushed away the doubt and sense of alienation, because I knew that creative drive in me was there for a reason. I’ve been writing lyrics since I was a little kid, and I’ve always loved music. It was all a matter of forming my tastes and honing my skills as a producer and writer.

I describe my music as “experimental hip-hop” or “alternative rap”. Hip-hop is my first love, but I listen to a wide variety of genres and styles of music. I try to bring together all of my various influences to craft a unique sound, avoiding clichés and bringing a new spin to genres I love.

I plan to make 2024 the biggest year in my music career so far, with a number of live performances, multiple album drops, and a ton of other exciting things in the works that I can’t wait to share with the world.

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.
As far as restaurants go, Primanti Bros. is a staple of the city and an absolute must. There’s a place out in Robinson called Sushi Bomb, an all-you-can-eat Japanese restaurant that I always recommend. There’s also The Church Brew Works, a former church converted into a microbrewery. It’s a really unique space with great food!

Barcadia and Pins are two of the best “barcades” in the area. They’re excellent spots to grab some drinks with friends, play some games, and let loose for a night out. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a beautiful place to visit on a sunny day, as well as Point Park If they’re the artistic type, There’s the Carnegie Museum of Art, the Warhol, or the Mattress Factory, but if they’re more of a history buff, the Carnegie Natural History Museum is a great choice. There’s also the Waterworks, a huge plaza that’s perfect for spending a day out shopping or even to catch a movie at the massive AMC location there.

Pittsburgh is full of great venues like Stage AE, PPG Paints Arena, and the Peterson Events Center. I’d definitely keeping an eye out for events happening during the visit!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a huge shoutout to the artist collective NOTA (None Of The Above). They’re a group of incredibly talented people who’ve encouraged me, shared their talents, and brought out the best in me as an artist, as well as pushing me out of my comfort zone to experiment and grow. On top of all that, they’re like a second family to me, and some of the greatest friends I could ask for.

I also want to thank all of my friends and family for their continued support and encouragement.

Website: https://linktr.ee/absnt

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/absntmusic

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

Other: https://www.dangerdigitalapparel.com/

Image Credits
Lyndon Shelton (DYN)