Nikki Hill

Soul-singing, blues-belting chanteuse Nikki Hill is in town; get ready for a head-spinning life-affirming experience from this young singer from North Carolina who channels such rhythm and blues greats as LaVern Baker, Etta James and Ruth Brown—with a little Sam Cooke and Solomon Burke thrown in for good measure. It’s pure magic between Hill and husband, guitarist Matt Hill, who does a little channeling himself of Howlin’ Wolf. Hill is the real deal, singing in the adult choir at her church since age 10, she’s steeped in gospel and soul, wrapped up in a punk rock DIY ethic. She’s on fire, as anyone who has seen her live can attest. Look for a new album early next year and a summer European tour. You will want to be the person who can say, “I saw her when . . ..” —Hope Urban