If you haven’t heard of Chad Nickell & the Loose Change yet, you’re in for a treat. With a sound they call Appalachian Jam, the band blends local roots with a mix of rock, country, blues, and soul, “an Appalachian buffet with a side of rock, country, blues, and soul,” Chad says. The band is rounded out by Daniel Jackson on guitar and vocals, Brandon Ross on drums, Evan Collins on bass, and Chad himself on guitar and vocals.
Origins and Evolution
When it comes to how the band came together, it’s been a journey of growth and evolution. Chad explains, “I started off wanting to put together a folk/singer-songwriter style band with some guys in the area. I had a decent catalog of songs to get us going, but various member changes kept us growing and adapting to the journey. In 10 years of being a band, the most important things are to be true to yourself and let the music go where it wants to go. We aren’t necessarily the band that we sought out to be. I think we’re better off because we didn’t handcuff ourselves to our own ideas.”
Influences and Sound
That evolution shows in their sound. “We’ve had a few lineup changes along the way. Rotating different people with different tastes and influences shifts my approach to songwriting to try to encapsulate the personality of everyone. We’re all similar, but pretty different at our core,” Chad says. Influences run deep, from My Morning Jacket and Susto to The 1975, Modest Mouse, John Mayer, and Kings of Leon. “That’s what is constantly in our 6-disc changer,” he adds.
Creative Process
The creative process is equally collaborative. “Typically I start with either a melody in my head or a phrasing of words that I build on. It seems like it’s the same process, but it never works out the exact same way if that makes sense? After I get the foundation of the song, I’ll bring it to the guys at rehearsal or sometimes even at soundcheck for us to work out. Most of the time, it comes easy for us when we all get together. We all have a great trust and respect for each other in the songwriting process. For that, I’m incredibly thankful.”
Themes and Inspiration
Currently, Chad is focusing on music that resonates with growth and self-love. “I’ve been more focused in my writing, recently, to make the lyrics resonate with who I am and who I’d like to become. Not that it hasn’t been important before. I just have more to say about it nowadays. I still write a lot about love. It’s a beautiful feeling. A feeling everyone needs and deserves. Currently, I’m writing songs about picking yourself up and loving yourself during times of struggle. We’re living in a strange time. Sometimes it’s difficult to separate the good from the evil. I feel like most of us want good to win. We just need to be better teammates to each other.”
Live Performances
Live performances are where the magic happens. “For the entirety of the performance, I am happy. I am locked into that moment. I’m not thinking about stress, deadlines, or commitments. I’m living in the moment and pouring every bit of energy and emotion that I have into these little songs,” Chad says.
Standout moments? “Every show is important. I don’t mean that in a cliché way. We set goals as a band and try to make them attainable. So far, I’d say we’ve been successful in that regard. Playing nearly every Winter Music Festival in Lewisburg has been incredible. FloydFest in 2024 is something that none of us will ever forget. Our set in the VIP tent as the festival was winding down was rowdy and full of energy. The crowd was buzzing and it fueled us even more. Those are the ones that artists dream of.”
Community and Connection
Their music thrives within a supportive local and regional scene. “We’ve been fortunate to have connected and made friends with some really special people. People that have believed in us as musicians and as humans. Those aren’t relationships that we take for granted. It’s not just a venue owner, a bartender, or a fan to us. These people are legitimately family to us. We cheer each other’s success and help out when we’re needed.”
Festival Vibes
Playing at this year’s Lewisburg Winter Music Festival means everything. “It’s something to get excited about in the first month of the new year. The success of last year’s fest was amazing and that kind of growth should continue for years to come. We appreciate the people that make it all happen. It feels like a homecoming to us and we love the opportunity to share a weekend with so many of our friends, old and new.”
Fans can expect a “fun and loving atmosphere filled with positive energy. We’re here for a good time and will ensure everyone in the place feels like they’re part of it.”
Where to Find Them
For those who want more, Chad points readers to all major streaming platforms: “Our music is on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, Amazon Music, and I’m sure some other places. Basically, anywhere you can find music these days. We’re also on Facebook and Instagram if you do social media.”
What’s Next
Looking ahead, the band has recordings in the works. “We have some new recordings that should be released some time in 2026. A full band EP and maybe some acoustic tunes if I can find time to get them recorded. The process is always in motion. Life is also always in motion, as well, and can alter the best of plans. We’ll be around the region doing our thing. Check out our social media for updated info.”
Advice for Musicians
For aspiring musicians, Chad offers straightforward advice: “Keep going. Learn and grow. Find people that you get along with and build that fire. Music is such a fun and beautiful process. Some things come easy. Sometimes it’s really tough. But, just like anything that you put your heart and soul into, it’s very worth it.”
Final Words
As the interview wraps up, Chad Nickell leaves fans with a few final words: “Be yourself. Have confidence. Love your neighbor. Compromise, but stand your ground. Anything is possible. Success is more attainable with a positive attitude. This answer is with the help of my two incredible sons Sam (14) and Lennon (10). Stay classy, not gassy. Much love, Chad Nickell.”
