It has been a few months, but last week Michael Stover over at MTS Management Group introduced me to Savannah Nider. She has a new single out, released a lyric music video and is literally climbing the charts to the top in South Africa. I mostly listen to electronic dance music (house, techno and trance) these days, but I am originally from Indiana. Country music is in my blood! Savannah has a big voice that fills the room, and reminds me a lot of early Trisha Yearwood. She has a certain twang in her voice, too, and I simply couldn’t wait to learn more about her. I reached out, scheduled an interview and really enjoyed spending with with her. It is my pleasure to introduce you to country music singer/songwriter Savannah.
I love the “We Are Us” lyric video. Where did the idea come from that and who produced the video?
I wanted a song that not only reflected my life in many ways, but also make sure the message connected with everyone else on the outside. The song was produced by Bryan Cole.
Growing up, I was heavily exposed to music through my parents. My mom was always listening to music in the car, in the house, etc. She was always playing country music. My dad, on the other hand, was in a local band for over twenty years. Every weekend I couldn’t wait to go to his gig. This is also where I gained experience performing in front of a crowd.
Tell me more about Grandma Linda.
She was my best friend. My siblings and I were very close to my grandparents because we only lived about 4 miles away from them. In high school, they also watched us after school while my parents were still at work. I created a very special bond with my grandma as time went on. She was always very supportive of my music and would never miss any of my music events, performances, etc. When I was sixteen, she was very sick with pancreatic cancer and traveled all the way to Nashville to watch one of my performances at 12th & Porter. She was selfless and remarkable.
Tell me more about working with MTS Management Group. How long have you been working with them and are you having success under their guidance?
I have been with MTS Management Group for a few months now. Michael Stover has been absolutely wonderful. He is very easy to communicate with and he works very hard to get your name and music out there. The biggest success I have had with MTS Records is that my new single went #1 in South Africa. I am very blessed to be with MTS and I am very happy with them thus far.
When you perform, do you do mostly originals, or do you mix in cover songs? What are some of your favorite songs to cover?
I am just starting to get into writing, therefore I have a lot to learn. I wrote an original song called “Until Always” and performed it at my wedding this past October. I also love to cover songs. Some of my favorites are “You Say” by Lauren Daigle, “Never Love Again” by Lady Gaga, and “Cry Pretty” by Carrie Underwood.
You’re originally from Nebraska, but have you ever considered doing shows in Savannah, Georgia? Seems fitting!
My family took a vacation to Savannah, Georgia a couple years ago and it was breathtaking. I loved it! Who knows, maybe someday I will get to perform there some day!
Speaking of live music, have you ever made a mistake on stage?
When I think about it, I do not think there was a major mistake I have ever made on stage. Obviously, many artists forget some words here and there from a song but I can’t recall anything major.
How many different guitars do you own?
I own one guitar and I am in the process of learning how to play.
There are a lot of great venues in Nashville. Where are some of your favorite places to see a show?
Some of my favorite places to see a show is the Douglas Corner Café and 3rd and Lindsley.
What is your songwriting process like? Do you pull out a yellow pad and write or do songs just come to you?
Since I am still learning the songwriting process, I have not found a specific method that works best for me quite yet. Normally, I will pull out my songwriting book and write everything on paper. I am really starting to enjoy songwriting and I can’t wait to see where that aspect of my music takes me.
What is the best concert you’ve ever been to?
The best concert I have ever been too was Shania Twain. She has been one of my favorite artists since I could talk and I had a blast going to her concert. Her stage presence and energy is contagious.
Tell me more about your relationship with Bryan Cole.
When I first met Bryan, I was blown away by his humble and caring personality. It was like I had known him my whole life. Ever since that day, we have created a fabulous friendship. We joke around with each other all the time. He is also the person I go to for music advice and it is very comforting knowing that I can call him any time that I need to. I plan to keep Bryan in my music career not only as a mentor, but as a friend.
Your single “We Are Us” has been popular in South Africa. Why do you think that is?
Pretty cool what the internet can do! When Michael informed me of this news, I was floored. I couldn’t believe it was my song at #1. To be honest, it still hits me every time I think about it. “We Are Us” has such a broad meaning and people can interpret the message in their own unique way. I think that is one of the reasons why it is getting so much positive feedback and its such an amazing feeling.
What did you record while at OMNIsound Studios? What was the experience like being in a professional studio like that?
At OMNISound Studios, I was finalizing/adding some vocal work on “We Are Us.” I originally recorded the song at Warner Bros. Studio but I decided I wanted to spice it up a little more! I really enjoyed OMNISound though. The staff was very friendly and the whole process was so much fun.
What’s next for Savannah?
I have many goals for myself. I plan to release more songs in the near future. I also plan to work on developing a band so I can start performing more live shows. I also plan on continuing to improve my songwriting skills and learn the guitar. Lastly, I plan to stay active with my family, friends, and fans as I advance in my music career.
Thank you for doing this interview. That was fun. In all of the interviews I do, I always give the artist the last word. Go.
As I continue in the music industry, I not only want to touch the world with my songs, but I also want them to see the real Savannah. I want everyone to know that I am humble, reserved, and loving. I want the world to know that I have an extreme passion for the special needs population and am a pasta freak. I want the world to know why I am the way that I am. I think many artists become solely consumed in the music, but I want to be different. I want to share my music AND my personality. I love the person that I have become and I plan to share my story with the world.
Connect with Savannah:
Website: https://www.savannahnidermusic.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/savannahnidermusic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savannah_nider
Twitter: https://twitter.com/savannah_nider
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/savannah_nider
