Every now and again you hear a remarkable singer who has the potential to be a generational talent. The latest is Nicky Lawrence, a Canadian multi-hyphenate (recording artist, poet, actor, director). Nicky’s new single “Middle” will instantly remind you of all-time greats like Anita Baker and Jennifer Hudson.
You’ve perhaps seen Nicky on screen in the Netflix series Workin’ Moms and the Emmy-winning Schitt’s Creek. In October, Lawrence will release her debut album Ugly Black Women, which is a reprise of her acclaimed Toronto stage production of the same name. The album will feature nine songs and nine poems.
“‘Ugly Black Woman’ is a window into my soul,” says Nicky. “As Black women we are consistently accused of being angry, yet UBW is a beautiful cacophony of sorts conjured up through the dissonance I feel with such a powerful stereotype. It is the depths of my emotional degradation, pain, sorrow, fears and joy. It’s also a way for me to share so closely and relate with other Black women the suffering and the commonalities of hurt which we share without even necessarily knowing each other personally. This album has become a way of relating to all women no matter race or class.”
Lawrence is currently in talks to bring the UBW stage show to the UK. She has a stellar voice, but even more importantly, she has a vital message to share.
Listen to “Middle” below, or find it on the streaming services.
Follow Nicky Lawrence on Instagram.
