Today we’d like to introduce you to Nora.
Hi nora, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Hi! Absolutely! I grew up in Harrisburg, PA, and I was always chasing any chance to create or perform. Dance classes, school plays and musicals, choir, and even sharing my own songs online…those were the spaces where I felt the most “me.” As a kid, I found a lot of comfort in turning my messy, awkward feelings into something artistic. I’ve always had a goofy personality, and the arts gave me room to explore all of my sides, the silly, emotional, and everything in between. Creating was how I processed what I felt, especially because I wasn’t naturally confrontational and tend to be a chronic people pleaser. Making music was my way of being honest with myself and expressing things I couldn’t always say out loud.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There have definitely been challenges along the way. Comparison really is the thief of joy, and it’s stolen mine plenty of times. Especially when it comes to music. I’ve had moments where I’ve questioned everything: Am I doing enough? Does what I post seem weird? Are people going to hate this or think I am stupid?
At the heart of it, my biggest struggle has been learning to make music for me, not to meet anyone else’s expectations. Authenticity has become a major theme in my life over the past couple of years. What makes my music unique is that it comes from my experiences and perspective…just like artists such as Olivia Dean or Olivia Rodrigo are distinct because they’re fully themselves.
When I stop comparing myself to others, I actually like who I am and what I create so much more.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I write and sing my own music, and every song comes directly from my perspective and whatever I’m genuinely feeling in that moment. I try to be as vulnerable and honest as possible in my writing. I don’t necessarily think that makes me stand out in a crowd but it does make me true to myself, and I’ve learned that being myself is the most important part of my artistry.
If I had to choose what I’d like to be known for, it would be the honesty in my lyrics. When I hear a song where an artist is so clear, detailed, and emotionally intense about what they’re going through, I’m instantly hooked. It reminds me that I’m not alone, and it creates this almost parasocial connection…like they’re speaking directly to something in me.
I’m most proud of being myself, whether that’s the silly version of me, the serious me, the sad me, the angry me, or the air-headed me. All of those sides matter, and I’m proud that I choose to show up authentically in every one of them.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I know I’m beating a dead horse at this point, but authenticity really is everything. Being open and showing your heart gives people the chance to decide if they genuinely want to invest their time, energy, and conversation into you and it keeps you from feeling drained after long talks about music. When you’re not putting up a front, connections feel real instead of exhausting.
Trying to act “too cool” or pretending you’re above someone just to seem impressive? Honestly, it’s lame. Be yourself, and the right people will gravitate toward you naturally.
And truly truly truly just be kind. It goes a long way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.itsjustnora.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/its_justnora/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@its_justnora
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@norasuknaic
