Debuting Now: Danielle Nicole Releases New Single “Tug Of War”
into a Kansas City recording studio with producer Tony Braunagel, guitarist Brandon Miller, and legendary keyboardist Jim Pugh, Danielle asked her musical partners for input. Their contributions inspired many of the great songs on the album including “Tug Of War.”
If albums like ‘The Love You Bleed’ and ‘Cry No More’ highlighted just how wide Danielle’s version of amplified American roots music can be, then ‘Fireflies’ mixes her lifelong love of the blues with a deeper embrace of R&B and soul. ‘Fireflies’ isn’t just a record that was recorded in her hometown of Kansas City but was inspired by the career-launching sounds Danielle absorbed there, including her love of Etta James and Aretha Franklin.
Recorded with producer Tony Braunagel, ‘Fireflies’ not just a record about roots — it’s about the growth that occurs when reflection combines with true artistry and resilience. From nostalgic tracks like “Take Me Back” (featuring North Mississippi Allstars’ Luther Dickinson) to empowered anthems like “Gaslight” and “Tug of War,” ‘Fireflies’ burns bright, deepening Danielle Nicole’s exploration into soul, R&B, and the rich tapestry of American roots music.
Danielle Nicole has made a name for herself in the music industry with her powerhouse vocals, impressive bass skills, and soulful songwriting. With a career spanning 25 years, she has received numerous accolades, including 10 Blues Music Awards and a Grammy nomination. Her music is a unique blend of blues, soul, and R&B, showcasing her exceptional talent as both a singer and instrumentalist.
The single “Tug of War” from Danielle Nicole’s upcoming album ‘Fireflies’ is a perfect showcase of her abilities. This blues/soul and R&B tune is bold, gritty, and soulful, allowing Nicole to fully display her power and passion. With a stellar lineup of musicians backing her, including Tony Braunagel on drums, Jim Pugh on keyboards, Brandon Miller on guitar, and Nicole herself on bass, “Tug of War” is a captivating and infectious track that highlights Nicole’s immense talent and artistry.
Nicole’s journey in the music industry began with the band Trampled Under Foot, which she formed with her brothers Kris and Nick Schnebelen. After a successful run with the band, Nicole embarked on a solo career in 2015, releasing acclaimed albums such as ‘Wolf Den’ and ‘Cry No More,’ which garnered critical acclaim and multiple awards. Her latest album, ‘Fireflies,’ is a testament to her growth as an artist and songwriter, with collaborative songwriting and a deep emotional connection to her music.
The loss of her brother, Kris, deeply impacted Nicole and initially made it challenging for her to finish new material for ‘Fireflies.’ However, with the support of her musical partners and collaborators, she was able to draw inspiration from her grief and create a poignant and powerful album. Tracks like “Tug of War” showcase Nicole’s ability to infuse emotion and depth into her music, making it a deeply moving and personal experience for both the artist and the listener.
‘Fireflies’ is not just an album about roots music; it’s a reflection of Danielle Nicole’s resilience and artistry. The record blends her love for the blues with a soulful embrace of R&B, resulting in a rich tapestry of American roots music that is both timeless and contemporary. With tracks that range from nostalgic to empowering, ‘Fireflies’ is a testament to Nicole’s evolution as an artist and her unwavering commitment to creating music that resonates with audiences on a deep and personal level.