Nigel Hall is a talented musician whose dynamic blend of soul, funk, jazz, and R&B reflects his rich musical upbringing in Washington, D.C. With a powerful voice and exceptional keyboard skills, Hall has made significant contributions to celebrated acts like Lettuce and Ledisi, while also carving out a successful solo career that showcases his authentic sound and deep-rooted passion for music.
Nigel David Hall is an esteemed musician known for his deep roots in soul, funk, jazz, and R&B. Born on September 15, 1981, in Washington, D.C., Hall grew up in a musically inclined family, with exposure to music from an early age. As the son of a guitarist father and singer mother, Hall first encountered the piano keys at just four years old and quickly became steeped in a rich tapestry of genres that would later define his career.
Hall's early musical journey was heavily influenced by the sounds of the 70s fusion, jazz, and funk. Artists like Frank Zappa, Mahavishnu Orchestra, and Stanley Clarke were part of his musical foundation, largely due to his father's guidance and encouragement. His admiration for legends such as Stevie Wonder, Prince, Marvin Gaye, and especially George Duke, played a crucial role in his development as a musician. Duke's "Feel" was particularly inspirational in directing Hall towards keyboard playing.
Entirely self-taught, Hall joined his first band during his teenage years, securing his position in the local music scene. His big break came in 2007 after meeting saxophonist Ryan Zoidis, who introduced him to Eric Krasno of Soulive. This connection marked the beginning of numerous collaborations with seasoned artists. Hall's noteworthy contribution to Ledisi's "Turn Me Loose" in 2009 earned him a Grammy nomination, confirming his rising status in the industry.
In 2011, Hall relocated to New Orleans, immersing himself in its vibrant music culture, which significantly boosted his career. He became a sought-after session and touring musician, collaborating with:
Hall's move bore fruit as he featured on both studio and live albums for Warren Haynes Band and contributed to Grammy-nominated works by Snarky Puppy and Cha Wa. His role in co-founding The Nth Power laid further groundwork for his future endeavors.
In 2015, Hall released his solo debut, "Ladies & Gentlemen... Nigel Hall," showcasing a blend of original and classic soul-funk R&B covers. The album garnered positive reviews for its authenticity and modern touch. Simultaneously, Hall's official entry into Lettuce as a permanent keyboardist and vocalist expanded his influence in the funk scene, with significant contributions to albums like "Elevate" (2019) and "Unify" (2022).
Known for his powerful vocals and exceptional keyboard mastery, Hall's music is deeply rooted in classic soul, funk, R&B, and jazz fusion. He has a penchant for the vintage sounds of the 60s and 70s and commits to capturing the raw energy of his music, frequently recording songs in single takes.
Nigel Hall continues to thrive as an active member of Lettuce while pursuing solo ventures. Recent and forthcoming projects include:
Nigel Hall's talent has not gone unnoticed, with accolades including:
Nigel Hall's remarkable journey through funk, soul, and jazz fusion cements his place as a vital contributor to modern music, celebrated for his live performances and deep understanding of musical heritage.
