Nika – A Life Rooted in Culture, Steelpan & Music

Apr 12

Apr 12 Nika – A Life Rooted in Culture, Steelpan & Music

Nika is a singer, songwriter, and steelpan player, born in London and raised in Hackney. Her journey in the arts began in infancy, shaped by a deep family legacy of music and culture.

Her mother, Penelope, was part of the successful Mas band, Perpetual Beauty, co-founded by Nika’s late father, Ken Auguste. Perpetual Beauty dominated Notting Hill Carnival, winning Best Band on the Road multiple times.

At just eight months old, Nika wore her first costume—a tiny apple in a baby walker—marking the start of her lifelong connection to Carnival. She went on to compete at Notting Hill annually, winning Queen of Notting Hill seven years in a row at the prestigious King and Queen Awards Show. In her eighth year, she placed second to her younger cousin, Tessa Auguste.

Nika playing her pans with Pantonic Steel Orchestra at a very young age.

Pantonic Steel Orchestra – A Community Legacy

Perpetual Beauty shared a Mas camp with Pantonic Steel Orchestra, a steelband that has always been a community-driven organisation, passing its traditions through generations.

At just six years old, Nika was mesmerised by the sound of steelpan. “The sound was so beautiful. I begged my mum to let me join.” She and her mother became part of Pantonic, where Nika started on triple guitar pans before switching to double tenor at age 12—an instrument she still plays today. She travelled the world with Pantonic, performing at festivals, gigs, and taking part in UK Panorama.

The years 1994 and 1995 remain her most cherished memories. Pantonic placed second both years, proving their strength as a serious contender. Though she later played Panorama with other bands, including Metronomes, Mangrove, and Ebony, her roots have always remained in Pantonic.

Nika playing with Mangrove at 2005 UK Panorama

“Pantonic is my family. They shaped me, and I’ll always support them whenever I can.” Even as life took its course, Nika stayed connected, playing percussion/congas when available. Pantonic never stopped—it simply transitioned, as it always has, from one generation to the next.

Music as Therapy – From Steelpan to Singing

While steelpan was her first love, singing was always in the background. Growing up, she was heavily influenced by 80s and 90s R&B, often singing her favourite songs with school friends.

In 2004, she began taking singing seriously, joining an underground duo where she wrote, recorded, and performed her own songs. This experience built her confidence, and she found herself drawn deeper into music.

At the same time, Nika was privately battling anxiety and depression. Seeking an outlet, she joined House Gospel Choir (HGC). “Joining the choir gave me a place to release, to be part of something uplifting and positive. It reminded me of pan—a family, a sense of togetherness.” Now a 10-year member of HGC, Nika has toured internationally while also re-joining Pantonic, reclaiming her place on double tenor.

Nika jamming with Pantonic at Endurance Blockorama 24!

COVID-19, Soca, and a New Musical Journey

During lockdown, with no live performances, Nika took on a new challenge—writing Soca music. “Soca is my therapy, but I’d never tried writing it before. As part of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), I had to step outside my comfort zone, so I gave it a shot.”

Her first song, "Soca Healing", produced by Colin Drumixx, was a deeply personal track about using Soca music to navigate mental health struggles. Encouraged by the experience, she continued writing and released "Ladies Night" on the Highland Riddim, featuring Terrah Dan, Merzy, Holla Bak, and Fullavibes.

She then collaborated with Darren Soca Child & Riddim Up Productions, leading to her latest single, "Down Di Road Again". Merging her background in R&B, house, and Soca, Nika created a unique sound that reflects her musical evolution.

Nika singing at soca Frenzy Flags Fest 2024.

“I don’t do music for fame. Music and pan are my therapy—a safe space where I create on my terms, at my own pace. I take breaks when needed, but I’ll never stop making music.”

Nika with Pantonic at Endurance Blockorama 2024.

Pantonic’s 2024 Success & A Look to the Future

2024 marked 36 years of Pantonic Steel Orchestra, an emotional milestone for Nika. “I feel so proud to be part of Pantonic. Seeing four generations in the panyard was overwhelming. Our exhibition showcased our contributions perfectly.” After 20 years, Pantonic returned to Notting Hill Carnival, securing 2nd Best Steel Band on the Road and later winning Best Acoustic Band on the Road at Hackney Carnival.