Monique Nikkole Interview: Grammy-Nominated Star on Bounce, Balance, and Building an Empire

In a world where R&B often blends into the background, Monique Nikkole refuses to be ignored. Grammy-nominated, relentlessly driven, and undeniably versatile, Monique is more than a singer — she’s a movement. With a resume that includes detective sergeant, entrepreneur, and music mogul, she proves you don’t have to choose between brilliance and boldness — you can embody both. Her story isn’t one of overnight success, but of long nights, hustle, and the courage to start over.

Now, she’s rewriting the rules once again with her newest single, “We Are One”, a powerful reimagining of Frankie Beverly’s classic, infused with New Orleans Bounce and a message of unity the world desperately needs. As she gears up for the release of her highly anticipated EP Enigmatic, Monique brings a dynamic mix of grit and grace — blending streetwise authenticity with soulful polish. Each track is a chapter in her evolving story: triumphant, unfiltered, and rooted in purpose.

With the spotlight turning toward her latest work, Exposed Vocals caught up with Monique to talk about music, legacy, reinvention, and the deeper meaning behind Enigmatic. Here’s what she had to say:

🎤 INTERVIEW WITH MONIQUE NIKKOLE

Exposed Vocals: “We Are One” is a powerful reinterpretation of a Frankie Beverly classic. What inspired you to blend that nostalgic feel with New Orleans Bounce, and what do you hope listeners take away from it?

Monique Nikkole: “We Are One” has always been one of those timeless feel-good songs that brings people together. When I decided to remake it, I wanted to honor that spirit of unity but give it a fresh, modern twist that speaks to today’s generation. New Orleans Bounce naturally brings that energy — it’s joyful, it’s communal, it’s movement. My hope is that when people hear my version, they feel inspired to dance, to love, and to remember that despite everything happening in the world, we are still one.

Exposed Vocals: Your EP is titled Enigmatic, a blend of “enigma” and “matic.” Can you talk more about what this fusion represents in your life and music?

Monique Nikkole: Enigmatic really represents the many layers of who I am — as a woman, as an artist, and as a person who’s constantly evolving. “Enigma” speaks to mystery, depth, and substance, while “matic” symbolizes movement, power, and intention. Together, they describe how I move through life: always creating, always pushing boundaries, but still keeping that element of surprise. This EP is a reflection of that duality — soulful yet bold, emotional yet empowering.

Exposed Vocals: You’ve worn many hats—law enforcement officer, entrepreneur, fitness brand owner, and artist. How have those experiences shaped your creative process?

Monique Nikkole: Every part of my journey has taught me discipline, resilience, and empathy. My time in law enforcement showed me real life… the good, the bad, and the raw — and that honesty comes through in my songwriting. Being an entrepreneur taught me ownership and self-belief. Fitness gave me balance and focus. All of those worlds collide when I step in the studio. I approach music with that same mindset: protect your craft, build your vision, and put in the work.

Exposed Vocals: “Queen of the Hustle” became a major empowerment anthem. What message were you hoping to deliver with that track, and did you expect it to resonate the way it did?

Monique Nikkole: Honestly, I wrote “Queen of the Hustle” as a love letter to every woman out there making it happen — juggling careers, family, dreams, and still showing up strong. It’s about that inner grind and grace we all have. I didn’t know it would take off the way it did, but I think people felt the truth in it. It’s not just about hustling for money — it’s about hustling for purpose, peace, and self-worth.

Exposed Vocals: As someone who founded her own label, CoCo Tunes Publishing, what’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned navigating the music business independently?

Monique Nikkole: Ownership is everything. You can’t let anyone else define your value or your vision. Running CoCo Tunes Publishing taught me that the business side is just as important as the creative. You have to know your rights, your royalties, and your worth. It’s not always easy, but the reward is freedom — creative and financial. That’s the power of independence.

Exposed Vocals: Many artists might shy away from reinterpreting such an iconic track like “We Are One.” What gave you the confidence to reimagine it in your voice and vision?

Monique Nikkole: Frankie Beverly and Maze are legends; their music raised me. But I also believe great music is meant to live on and evolve. I didn’t approach it to outdo the original, but to pay homage and breathe new life into it through my lens. My confidence came from knowing I was doing it with respect and authenticity. Once I heard how the Bounce rhythm meshed with the message, I knew it was special.

Exposed Vocals: Your background in Canarsie–East Flatbush and your hip-hop roots clearly still influence your sound. How do you balance that gritty authenticity with your polished R&B style?

Monique Nikkole: Brooklyn raised me — that grit, that rhythm, that honesty is in my DNA. But I’ve always been drawn to melody and soul, so fusing R&B and hip-hop just comes naturally. I think balance comes from being true to who I am. I can be polished and powerful, soft and street — it’s all me. My music reflects that blend of raw edge and refined artistry.

Exposed Vocals: You’ve shared the stage with legends like Deborah Cox and Tank. How have those collaborations or experiences influenced your growth as an artist?

Monique Nikkole: Performing alongside artists of that caliber is both humbling and inspiring. Watching their professionalism, their stage presence, their work ethic — it pushes you to elevate. I’ve learned to stay ready, to always bring my best, and to pour my heart into every performance. It reminded me that greatness isn’t about perfection; it’s about passion and connection.

Exposed Vocals: What can fans expect sonically and emotionally from the Enigmatic EP? Are there any tracks that were particularly personal or challenging to create?

Monique Nikkole: Sonically, Enigmatic takes listeners on a journey — there’s soul, R&B, dance, and a little grit. Emotionally, it’s about evolution, healing, and empowerment. One of the most personal songs on the project digs into self-reflection… the kind that comes after you’ve overcome heartbreak or adversity. Every song tells a piece of my story, but collectively, it’s about standing in your truth and shining through it.

Exposed Vocals: With so many accomplishments under your belt — Grammy-nominated, Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, entrepreneur — what’s next for Monique Nikkole in 2026 and beyond?

Monique Nikkole: 2026 is all about expansion — more music, more performances, and more global reach. I’m working on collaborations that will surprise people and exploring more film and TV opportunities as well. But most importantly, I want to continue inspiring others to dream big and move with purpose. My journey’s still unfolding, and I feel like I’m just getting started.

🌟 FINAL THOUGHTS

Monique Nikkole is not just carving out her space in the music industry — she’s building an empire with intention. Every lyric, every move, every release is rooted in truth, self-determination, and a passion to uplift others. Whether she’s on stage, in the boardroom, or in the studio, Monique proves you can be soulful and strategic, vulnerable and victorious.

As Enigmatic prepares to make its debut, one thing is certain: Monique Nikkole’s story is still unfolding — and the best chapters are yet to come.