Nikki Buatti is an extraordinary artist. Born and raised in Queens, New York, Nikki's passion for music blossomed at an early age, nurtured by her family's love for doo-wop, Motown, '50s/'60s, and 1940s standards. Her soulful vocals and storytelling is unmatched in this new generation. You’d think you were listening to an old-school artist from the 60’s. As Annette A Aguilar, legendary American Nicaraguan percussionist formerly of “The Grateful Dead” whom is featured on Nikki’s album put it “i haven’t heard real soulful vocals like these since the James brown days.”
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From the moment she could make sounds, Nikki was singing and drumming at the age of two, displaying a natural talent that led her to become a self-taught singer. Her passion for music, combined with her artistic family background, fueled her determination to pursue a career in the music industry. Throughout her life, Nikki has been involved in various artistic endeavors. She attended Marymount Manhattan College studying theatre arts, acting and directing. She has experience from extra work in commercials, TV shows, and movies to participating in off-Broadway productions, where she showcased her singing, drumming, and acting skills. She has been a familiar face in the entertainment industry, catching the attention of major platforms like NBC's The Voice.
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Despite her growing success and unique encounters with legendary musicians like Smokey Robinson, Nikki remains grounded and humble, embracing her unique talents as a painter, writer alongside her musical and acting talents.
Nikki's debut album is a testament to her relentless passion for music, “Music is my first love, it’s all I know and I am beyond grateful I get to do this as a career and I get to do it well. Surrounded by some of the most legendary musicians in the world. Having their support, having them part of this team means everything to me,” featuring original soulful tracks as well as creatively reimagined covers of Motown classics. Working closely with New York City's top talent that deeply resonate with her soulful essence.
Her first album features exceptional talents and legends in the world - Mac Gollehon, trumpet player noted for his performances on David Bowie’s Let’s Dance, Duran Duran’s records, Héctor Lavoe, Notorious and Skin Trade, Billy Ocean’s Get Out of My Dreams. Three time Grammy nominated saxophonist, Jay Rodriguez who has shared the stage and toured with legendary artists such as James Brown, Dave Matthews Band, Tupac Shakur at the MTV Music Awards, Stevie Wonder, The New York Philharmonic, Hip Hop artist such Guru’s Jazzmatazz and the Wu-Tang recorded/toured with Prince, DJ Premiere, George Porter Jr. and more.
Nikki's wish list of performances includes iconic late-night shows like Jimmy Fallon's Late Show, day-time talk shows, and renowned radio programs such as Tiny Desk. She dreams of collaborating with living legends like Smokey Robinson and participating in Daryl Hall's show, "Daryl's House." “Got to cross off one wish already! Playing at the most legendary venue of NYC “The BitterEnd” which has turned into a residency and I now get to call home.”
Nikki Buatti's full studio debut album will be releasing Summer 2025. Her journey as a self-taught singer, drummer, and multi-talented artist has led her to a place of musical brilliance, and the world is eagerly awaiting the unveiling of her soulful sound in her upcoming album.​​​​​
