Niki Fellowz, Haw River, NC
A Southern girl, who grew up in NC, Niki played piano as a child, and began writing her music before age 13. She explains, “I started making up songs on long road trips, and it took my interest in music to another level. I would have my little sister singing back up. Then I would make up short songs to whatever was playing on the radio. I would make it up, and we would present it to my mom."
Playing keyboard and singing hooks she wrote for her uncle's group, Niki saw their genuinely excited reaction. “Two friends heard the songs, and even though we were all broke, they approached me and pooled their money to buy a microphone and a recording equipment.” Several of the earlier recordings were done in a closet. Now taking herself more seriously, Niki was gathering skill as a songwriter, taking influences, like Mary J. Blige, 702,and her uncle's band, and using them to shape her style. “I grew up with a lot of 70's late 80ish music,” Niki explains, “My family played old school jams all the time. I naturally gravitate to that kind of sound; there's a warmth, naturalness and a comfort to it that I've always loved.”
As she got older her name grew in and around her hometown, the pieces began to fall into place for her. She studied Music Production at The Art Institute of Atlanta in Atlanta, Ga. She came home and started recording again. Recording continuously, Niki hooked up with local producers Terrence Russell, Pete Miles. The three recorded multiple singles at Scott's studio in Graham, NC. The songs sparked major interest from several local artists.
That recognition allowed Niki to co-produce This Ain't Me, as well a permanent studio home to record in while making it. She reflects, “There was a lot of songs that were made up or finished on the spot. My voice changed a lot in a short period of time, and that was reflected in how I recorded. We recorded more than what I wanted, and not enough at the same time. I spent months on certain songs, trashing what I couldn't get perfect. "
From the opening notes of “My Apologies,” the album's first single, one hears that combination of melodic irresistibility and lyrical incisiveness that are becoming Miss. Nichole's hallmarks. “ The song is about having a friend that you don't always take the time out to thank. I think that friendship is key in relationship,” Niki notes, “But the mood of it- It's still personal, while celebrating and giving someone the spotlight.”
Niki Fellowz is currently on the road, performing at live shows with her preferred band. “It's gaining momentum,” Niki says. “With the band, we're getting exciting - there's a lot of chemistry there. Being on the road all the time is something I've always wanted. It's a status I'm willing to marry. ” And on tour, Niki Fellowz is singing her songs exactly the way she's always wanted, creating a fully realized dream that is the culmination of where she's been and where she's going, and one that is sure to win her the notoriety that is demanded by the depth and quality of her songs.
