Born: Brookfield, Wis.
Lives: Nashville
Age: 24
Single: “Plain Jane”
EP: Strings (Nov. 2)
Twitter: @Nora_Collins
Instagram: @Nora_Collins
Facebook: @NoraCollinsOfficial
How did you get started playing music?
I have always loved to sing. It all started in the church choir. The director saw something in me and suggested to my parents that we look into voice lessons. That is what jump-started it all!
At what age did you realize you wanted to make music your career?
I knew from a young age that I wanted to do something in music, but I didn’t know that it was even a career possibility until I was 16 years old.
Did you study music in school?
I took voice lessons starting in fourth grade and that continued through high school.
Who are some of musical influences?
Miranda Lambert, Dolly Parton and Patsy Cline. The summer that I was 16, all I listened to was Patsy Cline. She’s had a huge influence on my music.
What three words describe you as a musician?
Fun, fresh, relatable.
What would you say is unique about your sound?
I pull from some of my favorite female artists from all genres—Patsy Cline, Aretha Franklin, Camila Cabello—to create a sound that is my own.
What was the first concert you ever attended?
I attended a Celine Dion concert when I was three years old. The first song I ever sang was “My Heart Will Go On.” I called it the “Titanic” song.
What’s the last song you heard that blew you away?
“Space Cowboy” by Kacey Musgraves. Everything about it is great. The lyrics are so honest! I really admire Kacey as an artist and songwriter.
Where is the craziest place you’ve performed?
Summerfest! It is the world’s largest music festival in my hometown of Milwaukee.
What’s the first thing you do after a show?
I go straight the merch table to connect with people. I love getting to know my fans and signing autographs for them.
What’s been your most exciting or unusual fan encounter?
I think it’s always funny to see what people want me to sign. I’ve signed everything from a fan’s cast to a man’s chest—and the weirdest of all was a pregnant belly!
What’s your favorite song to cover?
“Jolene” by Dolly Parton. Dolly is one of my favorite artists, and “Jolene” is a classic song that everyone loves to singalong to.
What family member or friend has been the most supportive of your musical career?
My parents have been so supportive of my music. They both recognized my dreams and talents at a young age, and they did everything they could to help me pursue this career. I’m very lucky to have them.
What does your new single, “Plain Jane,” say about you as an artist?
It’s an honest song about growing pains and becoming comfortable in your own skin. It’s about understanding that everyone is on their own path and to have faith and know God has a plan.
Are you working on a new EP?
Yes, I’ve been in the studio working on a new EP, Strings, with my producer, Marshall Altman. It’s been so fun seeing all of the songs that I’ve written come to life. The EP will be released on Nov. 2. I can’t wait for you guys to hear it. I’ve worked really hard on this one.
What do you have planned this fall and winter?
I’m so thrilled to put out the music that I’ve been working so hard on. It’s going to be so fun to get out on the road and start playing it live. I love the colder weather, so I’m excited to spend time with my friends and family during Thanksgiving and Christmas.
