Rising Stars: Meet Nicólas Soul of Nashville

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicólas Soul

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My creative journey began with a passion for making music. I released my first project in 2012, and for those first five years, I was dedicated to creating music independently. In 2017, while in college, my close friend and business partner, SHiKi, and I decided to establish our own media company. We saw a need to provide a platform for artists like ourselves who wanted to reach a broader audience.

Fast forward to late 2022, I had a pivotal conversation with Foundation Mecca, who emphasized the need for a hip hop and R&B publication that could highlight Nashville’s diverse music scene beyond just country music. This conversation inspired us, and in January 2023, we released the first issue of our digital magazine, Renaissance Certified. By April 2024, we had organized our first live show, bringing our vision to life.

From creating music to building a platform for artists and organizing events, every step has been about amplifying voices and showcasing talent. I’m excited about where this journey is taking us and what’s coming next.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has been extremely hard. At every high, there’s often a low waiting around the corner. We might have an amazing show, only to find ourselves hundreds of dollars in the hole afterward. Or we might make a valuable new connection that helps advance our career, but that same journey can lead to losing friends along the way.

One of the biggest obstacles for me—and many artists—is imposter syndrome. After graduating college, I felt lost in my artistic journey, questioning my place and purpose. That struggle inspired me to create a project called soulSEARCHING, which helped me process those feelings and reconnect with myself through music. Music has always been how I heal, and this project was a way to navigate those lows.

Every challenge, big or small, has helped me find my way and stay grounded, even when the journey feels uncertain.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I wear a few hats in the creative world. Primarily, I make music, create short films, develop mobile apps, produce content for YouTube, and manage both the Renaissance Certified magazine and our live showcases. My greatest strength is in writing, which is reflected in my songwriting and the magazine. People who know me generally recognize me for my music and for running Renaissance Certified.

One thing I’m most proud of is my creative freedom. One of my favorite artists, Childish Gambino, once shared how he simply pursues what feels ‘cool’ to him at the moment, and I relate to that. My focus is on whatever moves me creatively.

What sets me apart, though, is my tenacity. I used to think it was passion, and while I’m passionate, I’ve learned that passion comes in waves. What drives me is a relentless determination to keep going, even when hope feels lost or nothing seems to be going right. I believe that’s a blessing from God, and it’s why I’m committed to seeing this journey through.

What’s next?
My future plans are to keep expanding the reach and impact of Renaissance Certified. I want to build it into a hub for hip hop and R&B culture, not only in Nashville but nationwide. We’re looking to grow our digital magazine, host larger live shows, and create more original content that spotlights the stories and talent within our community.

Personally, I plan to keep pushing my creative boundaries, whether it’s through music, film, or app development. I want to release more music and explore new ways of storytelling that connect with people on a deeper level. Long-term, my goal is to build Renaissance Certified into a lasting platform that helps other artists grow and succeed, creating a true legacy for the next generation of creators.

Also, if J. Cole is reading this for some reason… bro, I need the feature!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.nrnszn.com/
• Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/nrnszn
• Facebook: http://facebook.com/nrnsznllc
• Twitter: http://twitter.com/nrnszn
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nrnszn
• Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/nrnszn
• Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7J3k9Mh4BwhV1A9QOLvbOz?si=3diOqtR0SrO_km-xBM9wSQ