If you’ve ever wondered what it sounds like when Louisiana soul meets West Coast fire, look no further than Niki J Crawford. Born in Springhill, LA, and now lighting up stages from North Hollywood to worldwide tours with icons like Macy Gray and Carlos Santana, and built a sound that blends Soul, Funk, R&B, and Rock
In this interview, she talks about the moment everything shifted, why she listens to Frank Sinatra on her own time, and the personal lyrics that still stop her in her tracks.
What’s a moment in your life that completely changed the way you approach music?
The moment I got to travel the world with artists like Macy Gray and Carlos Santana, seeing how it’s done first hand, then singing lead in a band with my music, things changed. I knew then, I have to do this!
When you’re alone, what kind of music do you listen to that might surprise your fans?
I LOVE Frank Sinatra! I listen to him all the time. I wish I could’ve seen him live!
Was there ever a time you considered quitting music? What pulled you back in?
Yes. When my grandmother passed away, I couldn’t see clearly, but hearing her voice pulled me back because I knew she would want me to keep on pushing!
What’s a lyric you’ve written that still gives you chills—and why?
Tough one because there are a few. But one is in my song Mama Cried. The line is “Granny put her hands up, got down on her knees to pray. She told me everythang will be ok!” So true. Also, my song You Are Enough. Line is “You are enough. Stand up, don’t give up. Shine, Shine, Shine til you get it!”
How do you handle the pressure to constantly perform and stay relevant in such a fast-paced industry?
I believe if you try to stay healthy. Always remember that your fans chose to rock with you. They could be anywhere else, but choose to be with you. Don’t take that for granted and give them your best. Your Honesty, Love, Understanding, Respect…..Do that and I think you stay relevant!
What’s one song you wish you wrote, and what would you have done differently with it?
Ahhh! Again, too many to choose 🙂 But one is “That’s Life” by Frank Sinatra. Wouldn’t change much but would’ve loved singing it 🤣.
If your discography told a story, what would the plot be?
About a girl who has been through and seen a lot but had kickass women and a brother who told her she was enough, so she wrote songs and performed them for folk, hoping they could relate. Or something like that lol.
How do you know when a song is “finished”? Or is it never really done?
Songs are never finished. You just gotta get to the end eventually, pray, and get ’em out there ;).
What’s one misconception people have about you as an artist?
I honestly can’t answer that because I don’t know. I usually get loving, honest feedback, but I’m sure it’s coming!
If you could create your dream collaboration—alive or not—who would it be and what would the song sound like?
Oh man, I would LOVE to work with Jon Batiste!! I think he is just awesome. Talented/Gifted. And we are both country folk from Louisiana, so I think we would make a good gumbo!
Tell our readers where they can follow you and find your music and music videos.
Y’all can follow me @nikijcrawford on all platforms. And this is my linktree: https://linktr.ee/NikiJCrawford.
There’s something magnetic about Niki J Crawford. Maybe it’s her Southern charm. Her fearless spirit. Or that unmistakable voice that makes you feel seen, heard, and alive all at once. Whatever it is, Niki’s music lingers long after the last note fades.
As she continues to shine, in the spotlight and behind the mic, we’re reminded that artistry isn’t just about staying relevant—it’s about staying real. And Niki does both effortlessly.
Want more voices that move you? Stories that stick with you? Stay locked in with us at No Days Off Entertainment Magazine, because this is where music lives.
Dive into Niki’s world: https://linktr.ee/NikiJCrawford
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