专辑简介

Nia Simmons is proud to be one of many artists representing the talent-filled Washington DC Metropolitan Area. Born and raised in Alexandria, Virginia, Nia has been singing since age 3 starting in the church, then gradually moving on to local talent competitions and community events. Her musical influences include Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Chaka Khan, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughn, CeCe Winans, Tramaine Hawkins, The Clark Sisters, and Ledisi to name a few. Nia has participated in various groups/ensembles over the years in the R&B, Gospel, Jazz, and Pop genres. These opportunities have allowed her to share the stage with nationally and internationally acclaimed artists at multiple well-known venues in the DC and Baltimore areas (Kennedy Center, DAR Constitution Hall, Warner Theater, Lyric Opera House, Blues Alley, and The Howard Theatre). These artists include Kirk Whalem, The Williams Brothers, 7 Sons of Soul, Jonathan Nelson and Purpose, Vanessa Williams, Placido Domingo, Me’lisa Morgan, Richard Smallwood, Art Sherrod Jr., Howard Hewett, Roger Treece, Bobby McFerrin, Aziza Miller, and Crystal Aikin. Though she enjoys assisting her fellow artists by contributing background vocals in the studio and at live performances, Nia is also a sought after solo artist and vocal arranger. She is a Howard University graduate, Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies. Nia was an original member of the premiere Howard University vocal jazz group, Afro Blue, and was featured with the group on two Howard University Jazz Ensemble recordings (2002 and 2003). She also recorded with gospel band Anointed Favour on their single, Advance the Kingdom in 2005. 2013 marked Nia’s debut as an independent recording artist with the release of her single, “Living for Today”, in October. The song gained her international recognition and acclaim, including position in the top 15 of the UK Soul Chart. Her follow up single, “Used to You”, was released in February 2014 to rave reviews worldwide peaking at #11 on the UK Soul Chart and also ranked in the UK Soul Chart's Top 100 of 2014. In 2015, Nia was recognized amongst her peers for artistic excellence receiving a Maryland State Arts Council Individual Artist Award grant in Non-Classical Music: Solo Performance. Her accomplishments further increased the anticipation for her debut LP titled, “A Songbird’s Journey”, released in August 2015. The project features 12 tracks showcasing the style, range, and versatility of an artist whose honest delivery and silky, smooth vocals will catch your ear and move your spirit.