If Lea T and Andrej Pejic have been making waves in high fashion’s recent obsession with androgyny and transgenderism, Nomi Ruiz is equally as important, if not more. Not that it’s even really an issue for Nomi. She is what she is. And she is sexy. In every flick of her hair and slither of movement, sex oozes from her pores. But it’s the kind of sexy that’s accompanied by charisma and power – which makes it all the more dangerous. These qualities amongst others have made Nomi a latex clad golden girl in the upper echelons of New York’s musical, artistic and of course, ever so fashionable circles.
All of this is evident when Nomi takes the stage in front of her band Jessica 6. Named after a character in the sci-fi classic Logan’s Run, bassist Andrew Raposo, keyboardist Morgan Wiley and Nomi became a trio after they bonded whilst touring with Hercules and Love Affair, of which Nomi was part of the original line-up. Jessica 6 signals a return to a golden age of soulful disco; outfitted in sultry, darkly seductive R&B and provocative pop, inspired by horror, sex and psychedelia – all embodied in the fabulousness that is Nomi.
Christel Escosa: Jessica 6 has actually been around for a few years before now, also in the form of Deep Red. Why do you think it’s become ripe for you guys in 2011 that it wasn’t before?
Nomi Ruiz: I think the universe has finally recognised the hard work we’ve been putting into J6. It’s coming back to us now like a boomerang.
Christel Escosa: You’ve said previously that “I feel most like myself on the road and onstage.” What is it about being on the road that makes you feel like that?
Nomi Ruiz: I think it’s my purpose in life to deliver music to the world. I feel free when I’m on stage. I let go of all that sometimes, it makes me feel trapped or held down when I’m simply living my life. Performing is my revenge. The stage is my battle field.
Christel Escosa: Love – besides being a battlefield – is one of humanity’s most favourite sources of inspiration for creation; and sex too, obviously. Can you tell me what some of the themes are on See The Light? I know you write from a very personal place, but what kind of stuff in particular inspires you the most?
Nomi Ruiz: I always write from a personal place. The songs on See The Light tell the story of what I was going through while making the record. It was a very passionate, painful, promiscuous time that lead me to seeing myself under a new light. I feel much stronger now that I can look back, listen to the songs and see my faults and strong points.
Christel Escosa: What is it that drives you when you’re onstage? Where did you find that power and magnetism?
Nomi Ruiz: Something beyond me takes over when I’m performing. I’m a weapon in that moment and something higher than me is loading the bullets and pulling the trigger.
Christel Escosa: What item of clothing makes you feel the most sexy and why?
Nomi Ruiz: Anything that stretches and comes out of a cardboard box from a sex shop. When a garment fits me right it makes my body feel bullet proof.
Christel Escosa: What makes a person attractive to you?
Nomi Ruiz: Bravery, high sense of self-esteem and passion.
Christel Escosa: What do you think of fashion’s recent fascination with androgyny and transgenderism?
Nomi Ruiz: I don’t like to separate or make human beings into a fad or a trend but it’s a great sign to have a presence in any industry.
Christel Escosa: Who/what inspires you most?
Nomi Ruiz: I’m inspired by the truth. I’m inspired by those who are strong enough to dedicate themselves fully to their craft in order to bring beauty into the world.
Christel Escosa: “Future pop icon” is what lots of people have described you as. How do you feel about being touted as such? What is it about you that you think people respond to the most?
Nomi Ruiz: I feel honored to be referred to as an icon. I hope to leave an image and sound behind that will last beyond me and continue to fill people with reality and freedom. I think people react to how fearless I am. I try to spread that through my voice. I think the world needs to eliminate fear.
Christel Escosa: What do you admire most in music right now?
Nomi Ruiz: The way people come together through a universal sound
Christel Escosa: Favourite fashion designer?
Nomi Ruiz: Alexander McQueen
Christel Escosa: Skirt or trousers?
Nomi Ruiz: Short… Tight… Skirt…
Christel Escosa: Describe your style…
Nomi Ruiz: Cloak & Dagger Cunty Glam Rock
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