interested in learning about the local music scene.
What is the name of your group?
Nikki Hicks and Momma’s Biscuits
How did the name of the band come about?
I created that name 3 years ago because nothing brings more comfort that momma’s biscuits.
Who are the musicians in the band?
Richie Valentino (bass vocal), Deshawn D Ray Jackson (drummer), Rufus Cole (keyboards) AKA Brezzy
Where are you from originally?
Buffalo
Is your family musical?
Yes my aunts and uncles on both sides of my parents sung in church as well as quartets.
When and why did you start playing?
I starting singing when I was 2 years old. I started mimicking every instrument and artist that I heard.
What was the first tune that you remember “really” singing well, when you knew that you would be a singer?
The song was Precious Lord recorded by Areatha Franklin. I was 4 years old and it was for my Head Start graduation ceremony.
Are you schooled in music? From where?
I studied some music at Johnson C. Smith University the rest I have learned through various musicians.
Which famous musicians do you admire?
Rochelle Farrell, George Duke, Grover Washington, Myles Davis, Quincey Jones.
Where is your favorite place to sing in Buffalo?
The Tralf
Where would you most like to sing in Buffalo?
Anywhere the people are to appreciate it.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Life and GOD
How often and for how long do you practice?
I sing every day. I am always trying to improve myself
Where do you practice?
At home, while walking at work.
Do you sing covers?
Yes
Do you play/sing original music? If so, who writes the music and the lyrics?
I have writing several songs in which I perform here locally.
If you could play/sing for one famous person, who would that be?
Gladys Knight
What are your strengths?
GOD
What are your weaknesses?
My bleeding heart
Do you have a label? A recording studio? Have you recorded a CD?
No. No. Yes, Nikki Hicks and SoulmusicSouljahs Live 2004
Where and when is your next gig?
Pan American Grill Brewery at The Hotel @ The Lafayette on Wednesday April 24, 2013 (see Facebook event)
Anything else?
Music ain’t music if you can’t feel it in your soul.
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If you play in a group/band (or solo) here in Buffalo, and have an upcoming gig at a venue(s) in the city, consider sending Buffalo Rising an email requesting to be emailed a Q&A interview that we can then post, along with concert dates. It’s a fun and easy way to get your name in front of another audience that is
interested in learning about the local music scene.
interested in learning about the local music scene.
The requirements are:
-You must have a public show coming up in the city of Buffalo, as our focus is the urban landscape
-You must have a photo of the band
-Solo acts are also welcome
-Video is a plus
-CD/Album/poster art is welcome
-Links to Social Media sites are a bonus
-Ability to take accept both praise and/or criticism is a must
It is up to the discretion of Buffalo Rising whether or not to publish the interviews depending on nature of content submitted, or lack thereof.
Please send requests here. Include “Sounds of Buffalo” in the subject box of the email.