Interview: Michelle Núñez
Photography by Brandon Moyse
Michelle Núñez is a Los Angeles–based Afro-Dominican multidisciplinary artist whose work spans film, television, and music. With roots in a nomadic military upbringing, she channels vulnerability, spiritual questioning, and resilience into her songwriting. Her debut singles, “making the most of it” and “california, home,” blend cinematic imagery with raw emotion, earning praise from outlets like Melodic Magazine, Kings of A&R, and FEMMUSIC. Known for her breakout TV roles, Núñez approaches music with the same integrity she brings to acting: a desire to uplift, provoke, and heal through storytelling.
What inspires your music?
I’m inspired by my family, by the way nature mirrors resilience, and by the purpose I find in telling stories that remind us of our shared humanity. I'm inspired by my friends, art, music, God, and my own experiences. The pain, joy, and love of my lived experience is embedded into everything I create. Long walks, deep talks, questions that can't be answered, longing, travel, and the need to express myself.
Who are some of your influences?
My music is influenced by so many! From Bob Dylan’s lyrical honesty, the improvisational spirit of jazz, the grit of Nirvana and pop-punk, and the emotional depth of gospel. Neck Deep is my favorite band, and I could list dozens more, but A Day to Remember comes close. My vocal range sits comfortably with most male pop-punk singers, which makes that genre a big inspiration. the first song i learned on guitar was a Neek Deep song :) I also am so inspired by CeCe Winans, Marty, NF... so many voices that fuel my sound and storytelling.
What are some of your favorite memories from your career?
Creating in the studio :) Writing in Big Sur. Sitting in the sun, strumming my guitar, and writing “california, home,” revisiting memories and transforming them into music. The first message from a supporter telling me my music moved them, wow <3. The encouragement from friends, the transformation after finally releasing my heart through music, the fear of how it will be received, and doing it anyway. Shooting music videos in Costa Rica and Big Sur, capturing moments on camera in the studio, riffing on new ideas with my producer Yoosuf. Using my vessel as a means to show the world that our art deserves to live.
Which of your projects do you love the most?
I love all of my songs, but “california, home” holds a special place in my heart because it captures the bittersweet feeling of building a life in California while missing my family across the country. it’s about the dichotomy of leaving home to follow your dreams and being guided through the process, coming out better than before
Who are some of the collaborators who helped you create your favorite works?
Yoosuf Blake, my friend and producer (@ybtheprophet).
What are you most excited to bring to your fans next?
Live acoustics of all my songs so far!!
What are your goals for this upcoming year?
Play live, maybe tour, keep writing, recording, and releasing, and continue telling stories that resonate. Stay inspired and grounded, loving every day and every moment of breath gifted by The Almighty.
How can your fans and our readers best support you right now?
listening to “california, home”!
