About
Nick Nicholas was born in Shirley, Surrey and soon developed an interest in music from his father and grandfather who both appeared in Music Hall and Variety. By the age of eight he had started training as a classical pianist. Rather than continue his formal training through the Royal Academy of Music, he was lured by the exciting music scene in London during the 60's. Nick started his career as a music copyist and arranger with a London Music Publisher by day and as a nightclub pianist in a West End Jazz club by night.
Debut Album
It was here, in 1969, that Decca Records discovered Nick and recorded his debut album, which received much critical acclaim. WARM RED SENTIMENTAL BLUE is a lush piano and full orchestral tribute to the 60's pop scene. A year earlier Nick had also signed an exclusive song writing contract with Southern Music, a major Tin Pan Alley Publisher.
Norman Newell OBE
The following year Nick began working with the legendary lyricist and record producer, the late NORMAN NEWELL OBE, an association that continued throughout the 70's and 80's. This was an exciting time working with major international artists, including the late Bette Davis, rehearsing artists, arranging orchestrations and performing at show business functions and promotions. Nick continued to write songs, collaborating with Norman as well as performing on the club and cabaret circuit. Norman subsequently produced all Nick's recordings
Change of Style
In a change of style in 1971, Philips Records released a series of HONKY TONK PIANO PARTY albums that sold over 300,000 copies and this success led to a management and representation contract with the Noel Gay Organisation in 1973 together with television and radio appearances. Nick's songs were recorded by artists such as Stuart Gillies.
At this time Nick also signed with music publishers, CAM of Rome, and they produced several of Nick's orchestral works for artist Pepe Jaramillo and others.
500,000 sales
Nick was chosen to record the single, WHAT'S MY LINE, the theme from the popular BBC programme. Philips also commissioned TV PIANO TIME, an album of 70's television themes, and a further series of HONKY TONK SINGALONG albums with the Mike Sammes Singers. 1977 brought the Silver Jubilee Celebrations and Nick recorded his second single, ROYAL EVENT, for EMI Records at Abbey Road Studios. A double compilation album brought Nick's total sales to around 500,000.
Residency
Following the heady days of the 70's, the live concert and club circuit beckoned again enabling Nick to enjoy long term residencies at leading London venues, most notably 20 years at the Dorchester Hotel in Park Lane.
Here Nick played for regular guests and visitors including show business personalities such as Tony Curtis, Norman Wisdom, Bruce Forsyth, Rosemary Clooney and film legend, the late Cubby Broccoli; The Princess Royal and The Sultan of Brunei.
Today
Today Nick maintains his links with the entertainment business and continues to write and arrange music. He enjoys travel and relaxes playing jazz piano in his retirement to East Sussex.