Nikki Hayes

Enchanting eloquence, fearless work ethic and outright vocal finesse – artist and
songwriter Chicago native Nikki Hayes has carved out an unrivaled sound and
presence within modern RnB.

Noting strong nineties influences, inspired by Beyonce and Stevie Wonder as much
so as Toni Braxton – who re-posted Nikki’s cover of her hit song ‘You’re Making Me
High’ – Nikki’s presence within the current scene is unquestionable.
From Studio One Dance Chicago at just six years of age, to working with Grammy
Winning artists and producers, Nikki’s passion has always been to sing. While her
ability initially fell short in the shadow of her sisters, determination never faltered, and
after years of practicing in the basement of her family home, the young singer was
finally accepted into the iconic Walt Whitman and The Soul Children of Chicago.
Hard work and self-belief have paved the way ever since, and in 2013 Nikki landed a
final-five spot in “Who’s Next? Worldwide Online Talent Search” – an endeavour
sponsored by multi–Grammy Award-winning vocal producer and songwriter Kuk
Harrell. In 2016 she released her debut solo single and went on to collaborate with
several high-profile producers and musicians, including Grammy Award-winning
artist Malik Yusef, of G.O.O.D. Music and Grammy nominated artist and producer Ye
Ali.

Backed by a handful of critically acclaimed singles, beginning with 2016’s ‘Chance of
Rain,’ Nikki’s eclectic repertoire has earned a multitude of overwhelmingly positive
mentions from blogs, radio stations, and the industry at large. In 2018 her acoustic
R&B release ‘Move’ was nominated for an Independent Music Award for Best R&B
Song, before 2019’s ‘Stingray’ showcased further dynamic in laying bare the
intricacies of Nikki’s own story from an emotionally abusive relationship.
The exotic and intimate single ‘Safe’ hit the scene in 2023, then in 2024, the
stylistically nostalgic and boldly evocative single ‘Same One Different Face’
promised a whole new level of performative intoxication. Though her style
consistently evolves, the depth and soulful delicacy of her voice remains
unmistakable.

Nikki’s willingness to be vulnerable and impassioned has led to a rapidly expanding
audience – fans devoted to the recognisable charm of Nikki’s sound both in the
studio and on stage. Her professionalism at the helm has led to multiple noteworthy
TV placements, with the hit single ‘Move’ on CW-TV’s All American; ABC-TV’s For
Life; and BET’s Sistas. Her track ‘Together’ was the opening song on the pilot
episode of Tyler Perry’s Sistas, as well as episodes of TNT’s Claws and OWN’s
Kings of Napa. Nikki also co-authored the piece ‘Gift That Keeps on Giving,’ placed
on Fox NFL Kick-off for the Fox Sports Network.

Currently based in Arizona, Nikki Hayes continues her humble yet noteworthy climb
as the soulful vocal powerhouse of a generation.

Highlights:

  • “Together” in Sistas, episode 101
  • “Together” in Claws (2019 – 2020 Season)
  • “Move” in Sistas, episode 124
  • “Move” in All American (2018 – 2019 Season)
  • “Move” in For Life, episode 102
  • “Together” in The Kings of Napa, episode 102
  • “Stingray” in Love & WWE:  Bianca & Montez (Hulu)
  • “Heart On The Tree” in Christmas of Yes (OWN)