Conversations with Nikki Benton

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nikki Benton

Hi Nikki, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
At the tender age of 8 years old I was at a bible study service at my home church, Praise Worship Tabernacle located in Raleigh, NC. The drummer at the time wasn’t there, so my Mother randomly told to get on the drums, so I did. From that day on I’ve been playing the drums now for 31 years. As time progressed I began to get better and gained more interested in cultivating gift. As the years passed around the age of 15 years old, I began to have dreams of having my own all girls band and putting different bands and singers together. Not knowing then what I know now that my gift was truly from God. I just didn’t have a gift, I was a creator. From 1994 to 2019 I played only in the church, still having these dreams. In 2019 I was asked to be the drummer for a blues band called Chicken Shack. This band was the band I played with at the church I started playing for in 2017. We then entered the a blues challenge in August 2018 and won. From there I then began my journey playing what some will say, outside of church. I then started playing for various local artist, such as; Wake Moody, The Phoebes, Stray Local, and Azul, all based out of NC. This then opened up the opportunity to meet other amazing artist from around the US. In July of 2022 I pulled aside by a very dear friend by the name of Saul Parada. He presented me with the opportunity to take my musical gift to another level. In October of 202, I started doing jam sessions and artist showcase at a very popular in bar, in Raleigh called Watts & Ward. The Jams were held there from 2022-2023 and we moved to Haymaker from 2023-2024. From there this event spread around and it became a “thing” that the city of Raleigh needed. This event wasn’t just about having a good time, it was giving people the unforgettable experiences that kept them wanting more. I then started my all girls band, Ladies First and Pocket Bae Experience Band. Throughout the 2 years, Pocket Bae Experience band was opened up for Musiq Soul Child, Keri Hilson, Tweet and Mr Cheeks, along with being apart of many different corporate events. I Ladies First had the opportunity to have a radio interview by an Atlanta based radio station, JFSM and to perform at a very popular venue there called, Kats Cafe. Ladies First to performed at other venues, festivals and corporate events as well. November 2024 I was able to start my own Productions company and team. We are now hosting our monthly jam sessions and artist showcase in Raleigh NC, at The Venue and In Fayetteville, NC at The Airborne Cigar Emporium. We have the vision to reach every city and state thats for us and as we grow we intend on being the prime example of one that helps change the world.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The biggest challenge that I faced where just starting everything from scratch. Meaning I had no grants, no business loans, nor sponsors. All I had was a vision and faith. With all of that, I was favored enough to be placed in rooms with people that would help me with my vision and without these people, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a drummer and thats what im known for. I was one of the first female drummers in the Raleigh area and that along set me apart. Being that being a female drummer wasn’t that popular then, it really brought a lot of attention my way. It wasn’t just me being a female drummer, but having solid pocket, great dynamics and placement. I am most proud of myself for never stopping even when it was hard. Being that playing the drums was a male dominant thing, it was very intimidating at times.

Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My favorite childhood memory was when I seen on of my favorite girl group, Destiny Child.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: inthapocketproductions_