Nicki Aycox has numerous film and television credits but it was her role as the first Meg Masters on Supernatural that has endeared her to fans. But Nicki’s talents extend beyond acting. She is a gifted musician, whose skill can be heard on her EP “Red Velvet Room”. Read below to learn what Nicki feels about acting and music and how both have played a role in her life.

So many people know you as an actress from your huge body of television and film work. In what ways did you feel your acting experience has helped you as you’ve branched out into music?

“Honestly, after many years of being in the grind, I learned that a “good” artist and a “famous” artist are two very different things. Being good is creating solid material that an audience can enjoy. Being famous, means you follow formulas well, and make copious amounts of money for the studios by reaching the masses. This does not necessarily mean one is a “good” artist. Don’t get me wrong there are some great famous artist, but it flips the other direction as well. After learning this, I’m able to create and perform freely because I love to do so. I don’t feel the need to prove anymore. Being in this space allows for honesty to find it’s way into the work. Honesty equals the strongest final outcome, in my opinion.”

Congrats on the release of your EP, Red Velvet Room last year. What challenges did you face from the initial phases as a singer/songwriter on your debut work until it was finally produced?

“Thank you kindly. We all witness certain things in our childhood and say “I want to do that one day”. One of mine came from my father. Through the quiet of country living, he liked to dip into his vast record collection. People like Cat Stevens, Buddy Guy, Jim Vaughn and Hendrix would be blaring. He introduced me to many amazing musicians who all played music…with instruments. For me, performing music couldn’t happen unless I played an instrument. It didn’t make sense otherwise. That was my biggest obstacle. Learning the guitar took me a long time. There were years of alone time with that instrument. It was very hard to record that first EP. I knew I still had a lot to learn, and I didn’t want to look back years later unhappy that I didn’t wait. However, if your lucky, you will always be improving, and at some point you have to let go of that fear. You just have to record. Start where you are I guess.”

There is a Twitter group for your supporters, @aycox_fans . In what ways, if any, has this group expanded your profile as a musician?

“@Aycox_fans was started by a wonderful poet and writer Tracy Miller. I feel so fortunate to have artistic people supporting me through my journey. The internet can be a vast worm hole of useless information. It can hinder your creative process. You want to write a set of profound emotional lyrics, but you get on Facebook only to find yourself reading about a new hair color on the market. The internet can ruin being in the moment if you let it. When people follow @aycox_fans, I know that they have chosen to be there. I trust that they will expand by reaching others that share their same likes and dislikes. I have the freedom to go to the emotional places I need, because I know @aycox_fans have my back. We have collected an intellectual group of like minded artist thus far and I hope to see more in the future. I really enjoy seeing the amount of support this group of people show each other. I do think they get the word out, but what I like most is they have found each other.”

What advice would you give aspiring musicians?

“The music industry is in a major shift. It won’t be the same even five years from now if it exists at all. Don’t aspire to be like anyone but yourself. Don’t aspire to sound like anyone. Aspire to hone in on your own musical talents, and make them as strong as you can. And for the love of it all…learn to play a musical instrument so you can be a stronger creator. Just work hard, make yourself strong, and when your ready, go find your place in the mix. Don’t wait on others to find you. Use your social media to reach as many as you can. At the same time, don’t let your social media replace your practice time.”

 Years later, if someone were to ask “Who is Nicki Aycox” how would you like them to describe your legacy?