In early 2019, Nick Mery, a.k.a. Merykid, became severely ill with an autoimmune disorder that forced him on several medications and into self-quarantine. During those scary and uncertain times, he found solitude in his guitar and music and began crafting his latest body of work, Exit Music.
The album became an outlet for Merykid to cope and come to terms with the possible end of his career, his health, and the world he lived in.
Thankfully, a year later, Merykid has reemerged stronger than ever with his most personal and meaningful album to date. Pop Culturalist caught up with Merykid to learn more about Exit Music and how he overcame one of the most challenging periods in his life.
PC: How did you discover your passion for music?
Merykid: I grew up in a Middle Eastern community singing songs at church and at family parties. It definitely cemented a foundation for music in my life.
PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Merykid: A general list of my great musical loves: Bob Dylan, Sufjan Stevens, Kanye West, James Blake, and Neon Indian.
PC: 2019 was a challenging year for you. What did you learn about yourself during that time as an artist and man?
Merykid: I learned that it’s okay to be human. It’s okay to want things and then be sad when you don’t get them. It’s okay to take time to heal. Most of my anxiety comes from being impatient, so forgiving myself for taking time was a big step.
PC: With Exit Music being such a personal album, does that bring more weight than previous projects?
Merykid: Absolutely, as much for the subject matter as it was something I never thought I’d make. I had quit the music industry several years ago, so making a new album caught me by surprise. It is very special to me.
PC: If you had to pick one song off of Exit Music that best encompasses you as an artist, what would it be and why?
Merykid: “401 AM.” It captures a very specific feeling of being awake when the world is asleep. As an artist, you tend to revel in the disconnect from others. Being awake at 4 a.m. is the perfect metaphor.
PC: Assuming the COVID-19 situation gets under control, what does the rest of 2020 look like for you?
Merykid: I think 2020 has a few more surprises up its sleeve. I wouldn’t want to spoil anything by guessing.
PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Merykid: Yanni Live At The Acropolis. Very important for the culture.
PC: First album you bought?
Merykid: Deftones’ Around the Fur
PC: First concert you attended?
Merykid: Stone Temple Pilots on the 4 Tour. Scott Weiland performed the encore in nothing but an American flag wrapped around his waist. He was an icon.
PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Merykid: James Blake’s CMYK EP. It just made me hear music production differently. It was like unveiling a new color in my brain. I just wasn’t the same after hearing it.
PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Merykid: The same room that Incubus performed their Morning Session concert at.
PC: A must-have on the road?
Merykid The book On the Road.
To keep up with Merykid, follow him on Twitter, Instagram, and Spotify. Pick up or stream Exit Music today.
Photo Credit: BLXNCO
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