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Quick & Dirty: Nikki Hayes on Perspective, Fears, and Christmas with Family

Fresh off the release of “Above Trees,” R&B singer Nikki Hayes reveals personal tastes, nostalgic memories, and answers some random questions.

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Image by Nikki Hayes
Nikki Hayes, photo courtesy of Nikki Hayes

Chicago-born Nikki Hayes has made waves in the modern R&B scene with her captivating voice and bold dedication. She began her journey at Studio One Dance Chicago at six and later joined Walt Whitman & the Soul Children of Chicago. Over the years, she has collaborated with Grammy-winning artists and gained acclaim for her covers and singles.

Her debut solo single, “Chance of Rain,” led to partnerships with Vic Mensa, Malik Yusef, and Ye Ali. Tracks like the award-nominated “Move” have earned praise from the media and featured in shows like CW’s All American and ABC’s For Life.

Now based in Arizona, Nikki’s new track, “Above Trees,” showcases her blend of heartfelt lyrics and enchanting vocals, drawing inspiration from R&B legends like Beyoncé, Stevie Wonder, and Toni Braxton. Described as a love song to herself, she explains it’s about “remembering what my love feels like — giving and receiving it unconditionally.” We spoke with Nikki to get to know her on more of a personal level and get insight into what inspires her music.

What do you think is your greatest accomplishment?

Nikki Hayes: “In my personal life, shifting perspective. My mentality two years ago is very different from my mentality now. In my professional life, the songs that I’ve written are getting placed on different television shows/movies. The younger versions of me would be proud. My parents are proud, too.”

Favourite book of all time?

The Power of Awareness by Neville Goddard, easily. It changed my life in the way that I view it. It’s one of those books that you have to read, and reread, and reread as you go through life.”

What historical event would you most like to have experienced firsthand?

“The Michael Jackson 30th Anniversary Celebration.”

What’s a fear of yours that you think is fully justified?

“Birds. I was attacked by two when I was 15. To this day, if a bird is too close, I get very nervous.”

If you had the chance to know when you died and how, how would you take it?

“It’s interesting because I’ve been really thinking about my fears regarding death, and the roots of it are the full lack of control, FOMO, and if it’s going to hurt. Knowing when would give me a sense of control, not in dodging it but just in mental preparation. I also don’t think I would worry about mundane things in life as much. I feel like most people wouldn’t. The how of it, I don’t think would make a difference. I would still have that fear of physical pain, whether it was peaceful or not.”

Cover art for “Above Trees” by Nikki Hayes, photo by Deshaun Matthews

Cover art for “Above Trees” by Nikki Hayes, photo by Deshaun Matthews

How do you drink your coffee?

“I prefer a medium or dark roast with about two tablespoons of vanilla soy or oat creamer.”

What toppings do you like on your pizza?

“I’m a Meat Lovers girl. Anything with a lot of meat.”

Would you rather be a zombie, vampire, or werewolf?

“Vampire, easily. They still look good.”

What’s your favourite family tradition growing up?

“I used to celebrate Kwanzaa as a kid with my family growing up. We would do Christmas at our house and then the next day, me and my family would go to my cousin’s house and celebrate Kwanzaa. I loved the food, being with my family, the music, etc.”

When do you feel like the best version of yourself?

“When I have full attention on myself, whether it’s writing, making myself something nourishing, going to the gym, reading, or just journaling and meditating consistently. And when I feel like the best version of myself, my cup is full, and then I can pour into others more properly.”

What is something that always makes you nostalgic?

“Music. Always. There are so many songs that I randomly hear and it’ll take me back to a specific moment in my life. Some songs that I hear can immediately trigger all five senses from a memory.”

What’s the most random fact you know?

“I know at least 50 to 60 numbers of PI.”

What is something you know isn’t real but wish existed?

“Imaginary friends. I had one as a kid. Wherever they are, I hope they’re well.”

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