Waterloo’s Nick Bordman shares “Tread Lightly”
From Waterloo, Ontario, emerging country singer Nick Bordman is jumping right into the country music scene.
From down-south blues to country-rock to way back traditional country, Nick’s sound is captivating to all. Nick has shared his single, “Tread Lightly.” Nick ” and has been working on his debut EP which will be released in 2023.
Listen to “Tread Lightly” below and learn more about Nick Bordman via our mini-interview.
First off, care to introduce yourself to our readers?
Hey folks, I’m Nick Bordman. I’m a country musician from Waterloo, ON. I’ve been doing this whole music thing for the last three years, and I still find myself falling more in love with music. I’ve always been a fan of good music, regardless of genre. I was also blessed to have grown up with some many musical friends and family members. In the summer of 2018, my Dad and I drove down to Kentucky to see Hank Williams Jr., and let me tell you, it was there, and then I knew I wanted to pursue music. I draw inspiration from some old voices ranging from Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and of course, Hank Williams Jr,. I also have been influenced greatly by Lynyrd Skynyrd, Sturgill Simpson, Tyler Childers, and RL Burnside. I usually describe my live show as a blend of country, and southern rock, with an injection of blues.
You have unveiled your single, “Tread Lightly.” What can you tell us about the writing process behind the track?
“Tread Lightly” has been in my pocket for a while now. In 2019, I sat down with Matt Koebel, a friend, and producer, and hammered the song out. I had initially written the bones of the song but needed some help to really emote the story. The song was born from a bit of a messy relationship I was involved with at the time. As the old saying goes, pain is a good motivator, so I had to find an outlet to navigate those feelings. I Initially released a version of this song in July of 2019, with no promotion and with little notice. Over the past year, I re-recorded the song and added some elements that really did the story justice.
You are set to release your debut EP this year. Tell us a bit about the creative process around the EP.
The EP has been a long time coming, but well worth the wait. There isn’t really a specific theme to the entire EP, rather, it’s a snapshot of myself. There are going to be some sad ones, some happy ones, and some that pair well with a drink (or two). It’s really easy to lean into the darker side of life, especially when songwriting, so I’m excited to include some lighter tracks. Matt Koebel has been an immense guiding force for the whole project. Matt has hired some great players and really worked with me to ensure the expression of my ideas. I am continually blessed to be working with people that are truly passionate about making music.
What’s it like being a musician in Waterloo, ON?
Waterloo is a bit of an interesting spot for music. The pandemic really changed the landscape of live music and music venues in town here. Multiple venues had to close their doors, and some are still feeling the effects. Waterloo is perhaps most known for the jazz and blues scene locally. The Blues Festival is still something I look forward to attending each year. The country music scene has only grown stronger from what I can see. There are more artists coming up, which can only strengthen the local scene. Waterloo is nestled in Southern Ontario between several farm towns and rural cities, which seems to really cultivate and conserve country music.
What’s next for you in 2023?
2023 has already been pretty busy for me! I have been out on the road touring to promote the new single and have been having a blast doing it. I’ve gotten to play some really fun gigs, such as The Stratford Dairy Expo and The Belmore Maple Syrup Festival. The Tread Lightly mini-tour is slated to run throughout the summer, so keep an eye out for dates! The EP will be coming very soon, so there will be a lot of fun things happening with that release. I’ve also gotten to work with a lot of new musicians from all walks of life. 2023 is going to be spent on the road and playing town to town, and I can’t wait!