Born and raised in Goldsboro, North Carolina, Nicholas Cole is a keyboardist, producer, and composer whose musical journey began at the age of four, playing piano and organ in church. Raised in a deeply musical family, he later studied privately with noted local pianist Jimmy Aycock, building a foundation that would shape his signature sound. His influences span a wide range, from crossover jazz artists like Brian Culbertson, Peter White, and Brian Simpson to gospel luminaries like Kirk Franklin, Fred Hammond, and Yolanda Adams.

Nicholas made his recording debut in 2010 with A Journey of One and quickly gained momentum after signing with Trippin’ ‘N’ Rhythm Records. His 2012 sophomore album, Endless Possibilities, produced the #1 Smooth Jazz chart-topping hit “Snap,” announcing him as a serious force in the genre. He followed that with Night Sessions in 2015, which featured the top-five hit “The Kickback,” further cementing his place on the contemporary jazz scene.

His 2019 album, The Weekend, may be his most celebrated work yet, featuring collaborations with guitarist Chieli Minucci, American Idol finalist Elliott Yamin, and rising vocalist Satyr Black. The album’s lead single, “Soulmate,” climbed all the way to #1 on the Billboard Smooth Jazz Songs chart—a testament to the hypnotic blend of smooth beats, soulful melodies, and inspired musicianship that defines his style.

At the heart of Nicholas Cole’s music is something deeply personal and spiritual. As he has shared, “I really wanted to write and play music that came from the heart. God gave me the gift to play, and so naturally I write and play music that comes from a very spiritual place.” That connection between jazz and gospel is what makes his sound so distinct: full of uplifting energy, rich chord progressions, and melodies that stay with you long after the music stops.

Welcome Nicholas Cole back to Charlotte Friday April 3rd.

Article written by Middle C Jazz Marketing Support, Scott Homewood