Nicole Atkins

Biography

Nicole Atkins is an American singer-songwriter known for her evocative blend of pop soul, psychedelic rock, and 'pop noir.' Born on October 1, 1978, in Neptune City, New Jersey, Atkins began playing piano at age nine and taught herself guitar by thirteen[1][2][3]. After high school, she studied illustration at UNC Charlotte, but quickly became involved in the local independent music scene[5]. Her early exposure to classic soul, blues, and rock shaped her distinctive style, which draws comparisons to artists like Roy Orbison, Stevie Nicks, and Nick Cave[2][3].

Atkins moved back to New Jersey and started commuting to New York City to immerse herself in its vibrant music community. In 2004, she recorded her demo 'The Party’s Over' with drummer David Muller, which led to the formation of her band Nicole Atkins & The Sea[1][2]. The group secured a residency at Piano’s in NYC and attracted attention from major labels, resulting in a bidding war won by Columbia Records. Her debut album, 'Neptune City,' was recorded in Sweden with producer Tore Johansson and released in 2007 to critical acclaim, debuting at number 20 on Billboard’s Top Heatseekers chart[1][2][3]. After her band The Sea disbanded in 2009, Atkins formed The Black Sea and shifted her sound further towards psychedelic rock and blues, culminating in the well-received album 'Mondo Amore' (2011)[1][2]. Subsequent albums like 'Rhonda Lee' and 'Italian Ice' showcased her versatility and deepened her legacy as a genre-blending artist[3].

Atkins eventually relocated to Nashville to join a more collaborative and supportive music community, where she continued to evolve her sound and work with a wide range of musicians[4]. Her smoky, expressive vocals and cinematic songwriting have earned her a devoted following and respect among peers. She is recognized for her ability to transport listeners to different emotional landscapes, making her a unique figure in contemporary American music[6].

Fun Facts

• Nicole Atkins is also a visual artist, having created murals and other artworks alongside her music career[7].
• She refers to her style as 'pop noir' and jokingly calls herself 'The Blue-Eyed Goombah,' reflecting her Sicilian heritage and soulful sound[4].
• Her debut album 'Neptune City' was recorded in Sweden, a rare choice for American indie artists[1][2].
• Atkins relocated from New Jersey to Nashville to be part of a more collaborative music scene and has become known for her community spirit among musicians[4].

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Roy Orbison - Stylistic influence; Atkins has cited Orbison's dramatic vocal style and emotional songwriting as major inspirations. (General influence on vocal delivery and songwriting) [Throughout career]
• Stevie Nicks - Vocal and stylistic inspiration; Atkins' voice and phrasing are often compared to Nicks. (General influence, especially on 'Neptune City') [Early career]
• Nick Cave - Influence on darker, blues-infused direction of 'Mondo Amore'. ('Mondo Amore' album) [2010-2011]

Key Collaborators

• David Muller - Drummer and co-producer for early demo recordings. ('The Party’s Over' demo) [2004]
• Dan Chen - Keyboard player and founding member of Nicole Atkins & The Sea. (Nicole Atkins & The Sea) [2005-2009]
• David Hollinghurst - Guitarist in Nicole Atkins & The Sea. (Nicole Atkins & The Sea) [2005-2009]
• Derek Layes - Bassist in Nicole Atkins & The Sea. (Nicole Atkins & The Sea) [2005-2009]
• Phil Palazzolo - Producer for 'Mondo Amore' and collaborator on A.C. Newman's 'Get Guilty'. ('Mondo Amore', A.C. Newman 'Get Guilty') [2010-2011]
• Irina Yalkowsky - Guitarist in The Black Sea. (The Black Sea, 'Mondo Amore') [2010-2011]
• Jeremy Kay - Bassist in The Black Sea. (The Black Sea, 'Mondo Amore') [2010-2011]
• Ezra Oklan - Drummer in The Black Sea. (The Black Sea, 'Mondo Amore') [2010-2011]
• David Hood - Veteran bassist featured on 'Italian Ice'. ('Italian Ice') [2020]
• Spooner Oldham - Keyboardist featured on 'Italian Ice'. ('Italian Ice') [2020]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Domino (Italian Ice)
2. Bye Bye Blackbird
3. A Little Crazy (Goodnight Rhonda Lee)
4. Burden (Ones to Keep Close)
5. Live Close By (Visit Often) [with Nicole Atkins] (Moon & Stars)
6. Listen Up (Goodnight Rhonda Lee)
7. Goodnight Rhonda Lee (Goodnight Rhonda Lee)
8. Heroes (PMJ And Chill)
9. Dancing in the Dark
10. Joey (Busted Jukebox Volume 2)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia