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Nikato Y Tamang is a talented singer and songwriter from Nagaland, whose name is familiar to many. He has released several popular songs, including "Lomi Ilikhi" featuring Kevin Savino, which has amassed over one million views in eight months (and counting).
Tamang developed a passion for singing at a very young age, thanks to the influence of his mother, who is also a singer.
Born to a Nepali father and Naga (Sumi) mother, Tamang grew up in Dimapur and has released originals in both English and Sumi. He is now preparing to release a Hindi original.
The singer shared insights into his journey, passion, and aspirations during a discussion with Eastern Mirror.
Eastern Mirror: What got you into music? How did it all start?
Nikato Tamang: I got into music at a very young age because of my mother. She is a singer too and has a wonderful voice.
Eastern Mirror: Can you share details of your latest song, “Come alive”?
Nikato Tamang: "Come alive" is a project of the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS), and they wanted me to write a song about HIV stigma and awareness. The entire process of creating the song was fascinating and a new learning experience for me.
Eastern Mirror: How does it feel to be regarded as one of the most popular artistes in the state?
Nikato Tamang: It is all because of God and His blessings upon me. The recognition and love I receive from people always humble me further and inspire me to work harder, setting an example for others.
Eastern Mirror: What is your favourite part of being a musician?
Nikato Tamang: Travelling, meeting new people, and experiencing the adrenaline rush of performing in front of thousands of crowds are undoubtedly the best parts of being a musician.
Eastern Mirror: Talk us through your creative process of writing lyrics.
Nikato Tamang: Songwriting is a very complex process and it is very important to understand the subject before starting. So when I write songs, what I do is look for a good topic and note down all the words associated with it and then I let my imagination do the rest.
Eastern Mirror: Do you think musicians in Nagaland are getting enough exposure and support?
Nikato Tamang: Artistes from Nagaland are definitely getting good exposure because of their amazing songs and unending support from the Nagaland government and the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA).
Eastern Mirror: If you were asked to change a perception of people towards musicians in the state, what would it be?
Nikato Tamang: It is very hard to write a song or cover a song and post it publicly for people to see and listen to and the reason we do that is because we want people to see our talent and enjoy the art. But when we receive criticism from our own people, it really kills our self-esteem and kind of demotivates us, so people of Nagaland, let's promote one another and push our people instead of holding them back.
Eastern Mirror: Why did you decide to leave the "Fatal Attraction" band and pursue your solo career?
Nikato Tamang: Just because of our differences in ideas.
Eastern Mirror: Apart from being a successful musician, do you have any other ambitions that you want to achieve?
Nikato Tamang: Apart from being successful in music, I don't think I have any other ambitions that I want to achieve yet.
Eastern Mirror: Any message for the readers?
Nikato Tamang: Thank you for always being my biggest support system. I love you all!