Nicolette

Nicolette Suwoton is a pivotal figure in the UK electronic scene, bridging the gap between the early 90s 'Shut Up and Dance' rave era and the sophisticated trip-hop movement. Born in Scotland and raised across Nigeria and Europe, her sound is a cosmopolitan blend of jazz, folk, and African influences underpinned by heavy British bass culture.

Her 1992 debut 'Now Is Early' is a landmark of early electronica, showcasing her ability to pair high-register, crystalline vocals with rugged breakbeats. Her career is defined by high-profile collaborations, most notably with Massive Attack on the 'Protection' album, which cemented her status as a premier voice of the downtempo era. Signed to Gilles Peterson's Talkin' Loud label in the mid-90s, she expanded her palette into more experimental, avant-garde electronic territories. Critics consistently highlight the 'eccentricity' of her delivery, which eschews traditional R&B tropes for a more idiosyncratic, almost operatic precision. She remains a cult icon for her uncompromising lyrical themes and her role in the DJ-Kicks series, representing the intellectual, politically-engaged wing of the 90s dance music explosion.