We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Niki Bente . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Niki below.
Niki , we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
This is a forever battle for me. Being in this industry you’re constantly around amazing talent, beautiful people, and it’s easy to compare or think you are aren’t doing enough. I think that taking a minute to appreciate your own gifts and what makes you unique, is one way to mitigate those pressures. I know a million singers that have better tone or range, etc, but after a lot of inner self work, I know that what I give to every performance is rare and now I’m finally owning what makes me special. It makes a big difference when you believe in yourself more than anyone. Although there will always be moments where self doubt creeps in, it’s natural, you just have to remind yourself of the things you’re proud of again. When your own opinion is the only one that matters to you is when you become unstoppable.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I always loved music and writing, but I actually started with acting. I used to imitate singers and then found my voice through that and that’s when my passion changed. I was in coral and jazz choir through high school and college. I ended up starting an acoustic duo and playing at country clubs and bars and just fell in with learning songs, meeting new people, and connecting through music. It kind of just grew from there to 80s, 90s, top 40, country, rock bands. Somewhere along the way I made it a career to perform. I can’t believe it because it was something I never imagined would be possible. I just knew no matter what career I chose I didn’t want to hate any day of the week or feel like I was “working.” Now I have mainly three bands I work with regularly and a handful of others I’m honored to hop in and sub when I’m needed. I also have an original project with my boyfriend under the name “Deeper Stills” and our music is available anywhere you download music. It’’s hard to find time for our original project when both of us work regularly singing and playing other people’s music, but it fills our hearts and helps keep the artist in both of us alive.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Most of what I’ve learned has been from the amazing musicians and bands I’ve been lucky to work with. For this industry experience is always going to be the best thing for you. Learning how to work with different types of performers, different styles of music, and getting in front of crowds be it, small or large. I feel for me working with a crowd that isn’t instantly in love with you and dancing right away has been the best for my growth. It’s easy to perform in front of crowd that loves you instantly, but when you have to work for it you’re left on your toes, trying new things or saying new things to keep or get their interest. It helps you break out of your shell . When you finally get their interest it ends being so gratifying!
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
My mom has been my biggest cheerleader and she is so supportive. A lot of times I find that people do not understand this unconventional career choice, but she just wants me to be happy and to enjoy what I do. She’s never pushed me to be anyone I didn’t want to be and even though it’s a completely different line of work from her, she’s always found a way to nurture my creativity and root for me to never give up.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/nikib2?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NikiBenteMusic?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1Lswf3uRlqIWQhCoPoGeFr?si=7zBmURN4T0Oa_w9tdinkmA
Image Credits
Michael Anthoney Photography George landis Photography Amber Emily Photo With the band Photography
