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TONYA NICOLE:
A LOCAL POWERHOUSE TALENT
WITH A NATIONAL REACH
By Nailah Herbert
October 1, 2024
When it comes to artistry, few talents are as electrifying and multidimensional as Tonya Nicole. Born and raised in South Carolina, Tonya Nicole has transformed her passion for music and theater into a flourishing career that has garnered her national and international recognition.
With roots in Charleston and Holly Hill, this dynamic performer has successfully carved out a space for herself in the competitive world of the arts, captivating audiences with her soulful voice and authentic performances.
Tonya Nicole is not just a poet but a complete creative force. Her career trajectory, deeply influenced by her upbringing in a musically inclined, church-going family, has evolved into a diverse artistic journey. From a young age, Tonya’s life was filled with music, largely thanks to her father, a minister, and her grandmother, a fellow preacher. "It was church music for us, always singing with my sisters. That’s where it all began," she reflects. This early exposure laid the foundation for a lifelong passion that continues to resonate in her work today.
Tonya’s musical style, described as a mix of jazz, neo-soul, and gospel, reflects a deep respect for the artistry that shaped her. Her influences include the likes of Billie Holiday, Sade, and Rachelle Ferrell, but she adds her own unique flair to every performance. Her journey through music is deeply personal, and she connects with her audience on a visceral level. “For me, it’s about feeling the music, not just singing it. I want people to feel every piece of it, because I’m feeling it right along with them,” Tonya explains to Okeeba Jubalo, who also understands the depth of the music industry as a singer and songwriter himself. Her performances are more than just concerts—they’re emotional experiences, blending her vocal prowess with her theatrical background to create unforgettable moments.
While Tonya’s roots are grounded in South Carolina, her talent has catapulted her to stages far beyond the Lowcountry. A graduate of the College of Charleston, she has performed across theU.S. and is now beginning to explore international opportunities. Despite her travels, Tonya remains committed to uplifting the artistic community in Charleston and North Charleston, where she has witnessed both the triumphs and challenges of local artists.
Charleston is brimming with creative talent, but Tonya acknowledges that opportunities for exposure and growth can be limited. “There’s so much talent here, but there’s a shortage of platforms for artists to really showcase their work,” she observes, speaking to Jubalo, who has also seen firsthand the need for greater opportunities in the Lowcountry. A passionate advocate for original music, Tonya is committed to pushing the boundaries of what it means to be a performer in a city where cover bands often dominate the scene. She believes that, as a community, Charleston can do more to support artists, particularly those with original content.
Her dedication to elevating the artistic landscape in Charleston is evident in her work. Tonya regularly collaborates with other local musicians, and her live performances are often a family affair, with her sisters providing backup vocals. One of her most memorable recent performances was a reunion on stage with her sisters for the first time in over 20 years—a true testament to the power of music in bringing people together.
Tonya’s versatility extends beyond music. She is also an accomplished theater actress, currently starring in the play Fat Ham at the Pure Theater. Theater has played a significant role in shaping her approach to music. “My theater background influences everything I do as a performer. It helps me connect with my audience and tell a story through each song,” she says. Her ability to weave storytelling into her music sets her apart, giving her performances a depth that resonates with audiences on a deeper level. Jubalo, who has directed numerous performances in both the visual and musical arts, shares this appreciation for how narrative and emotion drive an artist's work.
Her calculated approach to her performances is evident in everything she does. Tonya carefully selects songs that tell a story, crafting each setlist with a clear narrative arc. Whether performing a tribute to the neo-soul era of the early 2000s or debuting her original jazz compositions, every show is meticulously planned to give the audience a complete, immersive experience. Her love for jazz and neo-soul is palpable, and she plans to release a jazz album next year, marking a new chapter in her already impressive career.
Tonya Nicole will soon take center stage as the featured performer at the highly anticipated Global Art Fair in October 2024. Curated by the cultural engineer Okeeba Jubalo, Founder and Executive Creative Director of NobleSol Art Group, the Global Art Fair is a prestigious event that showcases the finest talents in art, music, and culture from around the world. Tonya's inclusion in the lineup underscores her growing national and international presence, as she stands alongside some of the most celebrated creatives in the industry. The event is a prime platform for her to share her unique artistry with a broader audience, and her soulful performances are sure to leave a lasting impression on all who attend.
As she prepares for the next phase of her career, Tonya is focused on expanding her reach and taking her music to new heights. Recently, she was invited to perform at a jazz festival in New York, as well as a prestigious event in Martha’s Vineyard. While she couldn’t accept the offers due to prior commitments, the invitations serve as proof that her star is rising rapidly.
Looking ahead, Tonya has big plans for the future. In addition to releasing her jazz album, she intends to travel more, with hopes of expanding her reach internationally. She’s also passionate about supporting local artists in Charleston and North Charleston, and she’s working with industry leaders to create more platforms for original content and independent music.
At the heart of it all, Tonya Nicole remains a true artist—humble, passionate, and dedicated to her craft. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and the belief that great art can transcend boundaries. Whether on stage, in the studio, or working behind the scenes, Tonya’s commitment to excellence shines through, making her one of the most compelling and inspiring talents to watch in the coming years.
For those who haven’t yet experienced the magic of a Tonya Nicole performance, she has one message: “Just come ready to feel. I want my audience to be present and experience the music with me. It’s not about perfection—it’s about the connection.”
As Tonya continues to elevate her career, there’s no doubt that the world will soon recognize what Charleston has known all along: Tonya Nicole is a star on the rise, and she’s just getting started.
