INTERVIEW: NIkko Evans of Defy You Stars

Who/what got you interested in music?
When I heard “Feeling This” by Blink-182 I [knew I] wanted to start playing music because I thought Travis Barker was amazing – I still think he is amazing. I decided I wanted to be in a band and get lots of tattoos.
Can you play any other instruments?
In addition to bass, I also play drums and guitar.
How was it becoming a member of Defy You Stars? Was the transition smooth?
When I found out I was going to be the new bass player I was overwhelmed with joy. Nikk and I were in the car when he told me and I my jaw dropped. I feel like the transition from being the merch guy to becoming a member of the band was pretty easy for me because I had been in a band with Nikk in high school and loved being on stage with him.
How’s being in the band been so far?
Honestly, it’s been a blast so far. I’ve been busy learning the set list and it’s been hard work, but I’ve loved every second of it. I’m very lucky to be able to play music with my best friends.
Where would you like to see Defy You Stars in five years?
I would love to have several successful albums out and for us to have toured the United States more than once. I would also really like to tour parts of Europe, [as well as] have the same people who listened to us when we first started building momentum [to] still love us five years from now.
Is there anything you hope to accomplish through music?
I want to help people overcome their struggles through the music the band makes. I always turn to music when I am feeling crummy or am having a rough day. Music does save lives and if the music that the guys and I make could help someone out, then I would be a very happy man. I would also really like to be able to support myself through playing music because I don’t want to work at a movie theater the rest of my life.
Musicians have the ability to inspire. How does it feel to know you are/will be inspiring others to play bass? It’s a really awesome feeling! Having someone to look up to has been important for me and I’m very excited to be that person for other people.
What would be your dream tour line-up (including Defy You Stars)?
My dream tour line-up would be Issues, Pierce The Veil, A Day To Remember, This Wild Life and Defy You Stars.
What are four things you’d like to accomplish before you die?
I want to go on a world tour, see a great white shark in its natural habitat, get married and have a family, and meet Kate Upton and tell her I love her.
What’s one thing fans would be surprised to know about you?
I have a pretty bad fear of heights. I can do rollercoasters, but I refuse to get on a ferris wheel.
What’s the most embarrassing song on your iPod?
Big Girls Don’t Cry - Fergie
Final Question: what’s your go-to karaoke song?
Semi-Charmed Life – Third Eye Blind
You can find Defy You Stars’ music on iTunes, and make sure to follow them on Facebook and Twitter.
By Clare Fitzgerald
