by kristen case
photo courtesy of michelle núñez
Michelle Núñez is evolving, and on her latest single “california, home” is proven to empower vulnerability with the push and pull of choosing freedom and staying afloat amidst constant change. “california, home” has nature infused instrumentation and evocative vocals in this soulful ballad. The single gives an introspective look into where Michelle Núñez is and where she is going next. She took a moment to give us a closer look as we discussed the creative process of “california, home,” what she discovered while creating it, and the story behind the song.
Congratulations on the release of “california, home!” What inspired the themes and the sound of the single?
Michelle: “Thanks. :) My biggest inspiration is my family and the longing that comes with missing them while living across the country. The sound came to life on a sunny day in LA, sitting on my back patio, strumming my guitar, and seeking solace in homesickness.”
What is the story behind the song?
Michelle: “It’s a homage to California’s beauty and the bittersweet feeling of living in such a vibrant place while feeling a tug in my heart for home, for my family.”
What was the writing and recording process for the song like?
Michelle: “The writing process came naturally. The line ‘the California coast never looked so beautiful, I miss my folks back home’ came first, and the rest of the song grew around it. My friend and producer Yoosuf and I spent a lot of time in the studio reworking certain moments and experimenting with sounds to create the song’s all-encompassing, almost surreal tone. It was a joyful, collaborative process.”
What was the creative process like for “california, home?” Have there been any new rituals when you have creativity spark?
Michelle: “My creative process is very free-flowing. It often starts with strumming a few chords, letting a verse emerge, and then building a story around the emotions I’m feeling, drawing from past experiences that have shaped me.”
If you had three words to describe your sound, what would they be?
Michelle: “Free, open, alive.”
You have such heartfelt lyricism and really nurturing your work like a quiet whisper of hope but also so raw in emotions. How do you balance the evolution of your artistry?
Michelle: “Sometimes the hardest part of being an artist is feeling life so deeply. It’s also a gift I wouldn’t trade for anything. Balance comes from allowing myself to feel fully, even when it’s intense, and learning to navigate those extremes daily.”
What is your favorite lyric/verse from “california, home” that you feel best captures where you're at right now?
Michelle: “‘Visions in my heart, prayers in my soul, The Almighty whispers, reminding me I’m whole.’”
What would you say to someone who has never heard your music before?
Michelle: “Here’s a piece of my heart and my soul exposed. I hope it makes you feel something good.”
You described “california, home” as the pull from longing for home and the bittersweet act of leaving loved ones behind. Reflecting back, what part of yourself did you discover while creating it?
Michelle: “I discovered a part of myself that can let go of safety and embrace the unknown, trusting it will lead me exactly where I’m meant to be.”
What projects can we look forward to seeing from you in the future?
Michelle: “Live studio acoustic versions of my releases this year and new music next year, and hopefully some live shows. :)”