Rising Neo-Soul Star Nicollette Releases Her Smoky, Sultry Take on the Eartha Kitt Holiday classic "Santa Baby

Nicollette has been surrounded by music her entire life. Both of her parents are singers; her dad was the lead singer in a hard rock band and her mom sang back up for various bands. Exposed to hard rock and metal from dad and Soul, R&B, Classical, and Funk from mom, Nicollette had a diverse musical experience growing up. Meanwhile, with her mom and grandmother, she was steeped in classic, black and white films, and period pieces.

It was watching these films that led to Nicollette’s discovery of some of the artists that influenced her musical development; Such as Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, and Nina Simone. Through musicals and singing in choir while in school, Nicollette began developing her voice by pursuing singing professionally after high school. It was then that the writing for her debut album began. Over the next few years Nicollette’s “voice” and brand developed. Today she is working on her sophomore album and continuing to evolve and develop as an artist.

Watch Nicollette perform “Last Dance” on Live! In The Bay, KRON 4, San Francisco: HERE

What’s the story behind this single? Why did you choose this specific song?

I’ve always been a fan of the Eartha Kitt version of Santa Baby, and kind of wanted to do my own spin on it. I like the tongue in cheek lyrics and the sassy take on a Christmas theme.

What are some of your favorite Christmas memories?

Watching vintage Christmas movies with my mother and Grandmother, such as “It’s a Wonderful Life”, “White Christmas” and “A Christmas Story”, hanging out with family and unwrapping presents.

What’s the main message behind it?

I didn’t write the song, but judging from the lyrics, I’d say it’s a fun/adult….and a bit naughty take on a Christmas Song.

Photo credit Margaret Molloy

Photo Credit Daniel R Cohn

How did rock metal hip hop and other genres you were exposed to help you shape your own sound?

My sound is continually evolving, I don’t think I have truly settled on a “sound” yet, but the biggest influence on my first album and My recently released EP “Veil of Tears” is Jazz, soul, neo soul and R & B…….the rock hasn’t worked it’s way in yet, but it will soon.

What are some other Christmas records you love?

i like the classics, such as “Oh Holy Night”, “Silent Night” and then funs stuff like “jingle Bell Rock”.

What are the main themes of your visual storytelling when you come up with your visuals?

I like classic/vintage looks and those looks always find a way into my videos.