A Grammy-nominated musician, powerhouse vocalist, New York-based bandleader and winner of the 2021 American Traditions Vocal Competition Gold Medal, Nicole Zuraitis continues to establish herself as an undeniable force in the modern jazz landscape of both NYC and beyond. Nicole’s bold, versatile voice possesses a special combination of soothing warmth, familiar authenticity, and raw grit that is reinventing the world’s conception of what it means to be a jazz artist. She infuses elements of multiple genres and approaches into her artistry, refusing to limit herself to any one corner of the music business. And despite her musical abilities, it may be Nicole’s effervescent personality, boundless enthusiasm, and relentless drive that cement her place as a true standout. With “a heart as big as her remarkable voice,” (Jazz Police) she loves engaging with her audiences and sharing the joy that music brings to all people.
Nicole is the premier vocalist for both the Birdland Big Band and the Dan Pugach Nonet; her co-produced collaboration with bassist Christian McBride is set to release in 2023, featuring all-original compositions and the talents of Gilad Hekselman, David Cook, Maya Kronfeld, Billy Kilson, and Dan Pugach. Nicole has also assembled an all-star, woman-identifying touring ensemble, Generations Of Her: Women Songwriters and Lyricists of the Last 100 Years, which has played to sold-out houses in NYC and around the country.
In 2019, Nicole was nominated for a Grammy alongside her husband, renowned drummer and bandleader Dan Pugach, for their arrangement and performance of Dolly Parton’s “Jolene.” In recognition of her talents, Nicole has won a litany of other awards, including the New York City Songwriting Competition Coffee Music Project (2016), the Herb Alpert ASCAP Young Composer Award (2014), and the Gold Medal, Ben Tucker Jazz Award, People’s Choice, and Johnny Mercer Award in the National American Traditions Vocal Competition. In 2015, Nicole was the second runner-up in the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition. For more info, visit Nicole's website.