In the Nick of Time

Nick Massey, City of Edmond Ward 4 Councilman and president of Massey Financial Services visited with the Edmond Outlook about music, local performances and his upcoming album.

How long have you been involved with City of Edmond politics?

I became the Ward 4 City Councilman 7 1/2 years ago. I ran for office because I wanted to serve my community and promote growth and economic development in Edmond. I enjoy being a part of this great community.

Does serving on the city council have anything in common with performing your music?

I enjoy the interaction with people that happens with my music and with serving the community. And, well…they are both entertaining at times.

What first got you into music?

I grew up playing classical piano, but always wanted to play the guitar and sing. When I was 20 and in the army, I went to a pawn shop in Monterey, CA and bought a cheap guitar and a chord book and taught myself how to play. I recently wrote a song, “Pawn Shop Guitar,” which describes that experience. It is on my upcoming album.

What inspired you to get back into playing music?

My granddaughter. About three years ago she got interested in the guitar and I started teaching her. About that time, I played at Open Mic venue and got the bug after that. It just kind of took off and turned into a side gig.

How would you describe the music that you typically create?

I lean toward country and folk, but also like various rock and roll songs. I like taking famous rock songs and slowing them down to create an entirely different feel. I did that with the Rolling Stones “I Can’t Get No Satisfaction” and the Beatles “I Want to Hold Your Hand.” Those are a couple of my most requested songs and they are on the album.

What is your favorite track on your new album?

“Wicked Game” by Chris Isaak. I sped it up and added a heavy beat. I convinced my young friend Ashten Vincent to do it as a duet with me and it turned out really great. She’s an incredible singer.

Who would you most like to collaborate with?

Johnny Cash or Willie Nelson, although obviously it’s too late for Cash. I’ve been told many times that I sound like a cross between the two of them. I’ve never tried to sound like them, but it just worked out that way.

You have an album coming out, can you tell us about that experience?

It’s been an incredible experience and so much fun. I worked with Tyler Garcia of 33rd Street Studios in Edmond. He’s a great recording engineer and very creative. We made a great team. I was also very surprised at how a song is recorded and how an album is done in a studio. It’s a methodical step-by-step and piece-by-piece process, not just capturing a live performance.

Do you have any upcoming shows?

I play a monthly two hour show at Ellis Island & Wine Lounge. I’ve been doing that for over a year now and it’s becoming quite popular and we’re getting a good following. I really enjoy having my own show because I can get more creative throughout the show and try to interact with the audience.

What is one message you would like to give to your fans?

It’s never too late to do something you have always dreamed of. I just turned 72 and I never would have thought that I would be doing this at my age or that anyone would even want to hear me. That’s why the title of the album is “In the Nick of Time.”