What is your name and what city do you rep?
Monique Nikkole and I was born and raised in Brooklyn NY. I live between NY and Atlanta.
Tell us about your latest releases, what inspired you to create them?
In June 2022, when Row Vs Wade was overturned, I was horrified! I couldn’t believe that in this day and age we were being pushed back more than 50 years! The days leading up to this nightmare I started writing this song because music helps to get the message across to communities that will and are affected by the overturning of reproductive healthcare!
What is unique about you and your music?
I’m usually the unicorn in the room. I’m not one to follow fads in fashion or music. I dance to the music in my soul and create music that true to my artistry. My soul and sound is unapologetically pure and me!
What shaped your music?
My parents and the artists that I was exposed to at a very early age. My dad was a singer and trumpet player. There was music in my house every day! I grew up listening to Old Blue Eyes, Miles Davis to Aretha Franklin, Stephanie Mills to Barbra Streisand. It was such an eclectic mix of music and this is why my sound is so blended.
When did you realize you were going to make music professionally?
I felt that way from a young child, but it was a struggle because my dad got burned in the music industry and didn’t want me to pursue it professionally. I went to school, became a law professional and did music support services. I managed artists and was a concert promoter. After years of behind the scenes work I decided to step center stage with all the knowledge I’ve acquired and in 2015 I dropped my first single “Say Yes” it was a success and gained commercial radio play here in the states and around the world!
What type of music do you listen to?
I love classic R&B, Contemporary R&B, Hip Hop, Rap, Smooth Jazz and Disco/Club Music.
What inspires you to write music?
My inspiration comes from life experiences,
Current events and sometimes my imagination.
What do you do when you don’t do music (creative or otherwise) and that you are passionate about?
I’m very passionate about fitness! Health is wealth! My fitness journey through the years wasn’t an easy one after having children. I documented my journey and was so passionate about it I created a fitness journal that included how I lost 40 pounds. It’s called Monique Nikkole Simple Fitness Journal and it’s available on Amazon!
I’m also very passionate about real estate investing. I love to buy, rehab and sell or retain properties to rent long term and short term.
Happiness to you is…
Happiness is being at peace. Happiness is having family and friends that truly love you and that I love dearly. Happiness is having music to listen to, experience and appreciate. Happiness is having a home and food on the table. For me it’s the simple things that bring me the most joy!
What do you wish you were told when you first started making music that you think would help artists just starting out?
Believe in yourself and be your biggest advocate! If it sounds too good to be true it is. If it doesn’t fit, don’t force it, it’s just not for you! Be yourself in any room you enter, your tribe will find you! It’s ok to be inspired by others, but always be an original!
Tell us about your upcoming projects…
I will be on FM radio soon! My show is called Ear Candy with Monique Nikkole! I Have a new EP dropping soon too!
Where do we find your music / music projects?
My music is on all of your favorite streaming platforms!
Any last words for the readers?
Sending love and positive vibes to you all!
Times aren’t the best right now, but remember that it’s all temporary. Every day we wake up it’s a new opportunity to crush your goals!
Keep pushing forward! Love you all!
MN!
