Catch Of The Week: Nick Drouin
Meet Nick Drouin from Candia, NH
Hard to imagine Nick was once too shy to sing and write. It just seems to come so naturally for this talented “Northern country rocker,” as he describes his sound.
Nick grew up around music, it was in his blood and was always in his home. His father and sisters all played and sang some. He started his musical life as a drummer, and would write songs with his band, but didn’t think he had the chops to sing. When he realized he did, and singing his own songs was a natural, Drouin’s confidence shone through. In Nick’s live performance, there is a courage that is contagious. His love for music instantly connects with the ears it falls upon. Nick’s words come to life, and the notes carry his story.
A Bit About Nick
- Grew up in: Candia, NH – born and raised!
- Now lives in: Amherst, NH
- Current single, and or EP or Album: “Crossroads” is the first single off my latest album “Crossroads EP.” New full length album coming out in summer 2020!
- What lead you to music: Music has always been part of my family. My dad played drums in numerous bands growing up and my two older sisters played music (one was a piano player and the other a singer). My mom always joked that she played the radio.
- How old when you started: I started playing drums when I was 5 and guitar and singing when I was 14.
- Instruments played: Drums, guitar, piano mainly.
- How would you describe your sound: Northern Country Rock. Influenced by the southern country greats with a bite like the winter cold in New England.
- Who inspires you: My musical taste is all over the map. If I had to pick a handful, I would say artists like Jason Aldean, Brantley Gilbert, Metallica, Eric Church, Breaking Benjamin, Paul Simon, The 1975, and others. As far as non-music inspirations, I look to my wife, Jenna and my family. They are overwhelmingly supportive and I’m very lucky to have them in my corner.
- Dream duet partner: Jason Aldean, Brantley Gilbert, Carrie Underwood.
- All- time favorite country songs: Oh man there are so many. The first ones that come to mind are “Cover Me Up” – Jason Isbel, “Even Though I’m Leaving,” – Luke Combs, “Lights of My Hometown,” – Brantley Gilbert, “My Kinda Party” – Jason Aldean, “Diamonds and Gasoline” – Turnpike Troubadours, “Wicked Twisted Road,” – Reckless Kelly
- First country concert: Brooks and Dunn, 2003 at Meadowbrook Farms in NH.
- What songs do you like now on Country 1025: “Even Though I’m Leaving,” and “Does to Me (with Eric Church)” – Luke Combs, “Make It Sweet” – Old Dominion, “The Bones” – Maren Morris, “We Back” – Jason Aldean, “Monsters” – Eric Church, “Make Me Want To” – Jimmy Allen
- If you weren’t a musician, what would you be doing: No idea, honestly. Music keeps me sane. Writing is the way I heal old wounds.
- Day Job: Believe it or not, I help people with financial planning all day long as a Financial Advisor at Northwestern Mutual
- Most proud moment: Recently, I performed the National Anthem for a corporate event in front of thousands of people with just me and a guitar. But honestly, I feel most proud when someone comes up to me after a live show and tells me that they loved the show and asks me why I haven’t moved to Nashville yet.
- Crazy thing that happened in your music career: I got to record in a previous project a few years back with the guys from Jason Aldean in their studio in Nashville. That was an amazing experience.
- Other things you like to do: I’m into anything outdoorsy but hiking is the main thing. Gym time is essential because I’m a wicked foodie too.
- Fun facts: 1 – I’m a huge dog person. My wife and I rescued our dog, Buddy, from Tennessee 2 years ago after he was found in a coyote trap in the woods. 2 – I can make a water drop sound on command with my mouth. 3 – I’m allergic to raw fruits and vegetables…and no I’m not faking it so I don’t have to eat them, mom.
- Mantra:Mark Twain said it better than I could, “Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you too can become great
The Nick Network
For gig info, check Nick Drouin’s website!
Every week, Kruser’s Local Catch highlights New England’s homegrown country music talent, and tells you where to catch them locally and in Nashville. Click here to view previous catches.
*Singer/songwriters with original music: Please submit for consideration to be The Local Catch by emailing: [email protected]
