Nikki Briar

Musical Biography By: Mike Kuhl

Nikki Briar, born Nicole Signorella on May 23, 1985 has truly been passionately involved with music her entire life. Her father, Joseph, made his living as a touring drummer for a Motown band called the Victorians, while mother Oksana, was a classically trained pianist and artist. From a very young age, Briar was influenced and connected best with artists such as Frank Sinatra and Whitney Houston. Her parents say that the way she learned to speak was by memorizing and singing along to her favorite songs on her record player.

A young Briar took part in every performing event that she could, singing in the choir and becoming the first female drummer in her middle school. In sixth grade, she started learning to play the guitar from her uncle, Anthony Signorella. Briar went to Arthur L. Johnson for her regular high school experience in Clark, NJ. She also attended the Gifted and Talented program at a votech school where she participating in the highly praised musical theater department. She then went on to graduate from Seton Hall University with a degree in Special and Elementary Education, minoring in Music for voice and guitar. Since graduating, Nikki Briar has been teaching music to young children at the New Jersey Workshop of the Arts and currently attends Graduate School of Seton Hall University. She sings at events for the New Jersey National Guard and is a proud Army wife. Also, she has participated in fundraisers for people in need and for organizations such as; The Wounded Warrior Project, The Hurricane Relief Fund, and the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation.

Briars original brand of popular country is truly inspired by many different ages and styles of music. She credits such modern acts as Kenny Chesney, Gretchen Wilson, Norah Jones, Faith Hill, Michael Buble and Shania Twain for inspiring her unique sound.

When asked why she decided to pursue a career in country music, Briar simply said: I love the passion and the truth in country music. I love the story songs that can either make you laugh hysterically or bring you to tears. After all, music is about emotion, and I want my audience to feel something when they hear me sing.

Nikki Briar now resides in New Jersey with husband Angelo, who she credits as being her inspiration and number one fan.

You can find Nikki Briar performing all over New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania.