FEATURES
Mic Nickels isn’t a newcomer to the industry. In fact, over two decades, he has amassed an incredible level of expertise and finesse through international tours and collaborations with renowned artists. “People who know me know I grind hard,” remarks Nickels on the work ethic that has led to his worldwide success.
Fronting Nickel and Dime Ops, collaborating with the international hip hop crew MHB, and creating synergy with Grammy award-winning and nominated artists—including Ian Hendrickson-Smith from The Roots, Lawrence Leathers, Brandon "Bizzy" Hollemon, and Jean Baylor—are just a few of Mic Nickels’ endless accomplishments. “Playing with a band provides a whole different element,” shares Nickels. “When you’re playing with several really talented musicians, the beat has its own energy and emotion. Collectively, there’s a feeling that comes out.”
Performing in memorable venues has also been a part of Mic Nickels’ flourishing career. From a weekly residency at the world renown Smoke Jazz Club for over eight years to performances across the US and all over the world, Mic Nickels is drawn to the stage lights. “It’s contagious playing with such talented musicians. I enjoyed the freedom of it. With a DJ, the level of freedom isn’t the same. But with a band, you can create on the spot—improvise, freestyle.”
Yet the underground emcee style is in Nickels’ heart and he wanted to return to a backdrop of heavy bass lines, kicks, and snares. While the past decade has seen Mic Nickels collaborating on studio albums with Nickel and Dime Ops, it’s due time for an album of his own creation. The journey has taken Nickels in many directions, but he’s finally returning to his roots. Inspiring underground indie artists with an unwavering commitment to his roots, Mic Nickels is excited to return to his humble beginnings through music in his new album coming out next month. His newest masterpiece, “Bars for Days,” shares its title with his upcoming autobiography and sings the tune of his earlier days, diving into traditional beats-and-rhyme hip hop.
Mic Nickels partnered with Al Machera to develop the album, which came to life at Westlake Studio in Los Angeles. Inviting collaborators from the U.S. and around the world—including Grammy-award-winning Brandon “Bizzy” Hollemon, Colombeyond, Mr. Cord, Method Man, and Timbo King—Nickels is proud of album and all it has come to represent in his life. “This album will be monumental. It’s a testament to what I’ve been doing and the people helping me along the way.”
This time around he “didn’t want to focus on producing but be inspired by others and their sound.” The album comes hand in hand with his autobiography, which tells his saga through a patchwork of personal stories, encounters with people and places, and seemingly random experiences that make up an incredible life.
Bookmark this moment. You’re about to witness a side of Mic Nickels you’ve never seen before. Catch the latest news and listen to Mic Nickels through the links below.
“Rappers Don’t Smile” – https://youtu.be/_VQgqcMR6eE
IG - @micnickels
https://www.facebook.com/micnickelshiphop
www.youtube.com/micnickels
Twitter @micnickels
https://soundcloud.com/micnickels
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