Danielle Nicole – Fireflies
Label: Forty Below Records
Release Date: August 28, 2026
Standout tunes: “Take Me Back,” “Memories,” “The Same Love That Made Me Laugh,” & “Fireflies.”
Danielle Nicole: From Roots to Rising Star
Perhaps Danielle Nicole will always be associated with “Trampled Under Foot,” but she has clearly carved out her own path. Since her debut album Wolf Den in 2015, she has steadily built a reputation as a formidable solo artist. Her journey began long before that, however, with a win at the 2008 International Blues Challenge alongside her brothers Kris and Nick, as part of the band “Trampled Under Foot.” Since then, Danielle has evolved into a powerful voice in blues, soul, and R&B, earning multiple awards and critical acclaim.
A Family Steeped in Music
Born as Nicole Schnebelen, she grew up immersed in music. Her family’s musical roots run deep, with her father as a blues guitarist and her mother as a vocalist. Danielle started playing bass and singing with her brothers in the band “TUF,” which truly felt like a family affair. At just 12 years old, she idolized legends like Koko Taylor, which explains the soulful, “black” influence that permeates her music. Notably, her live performance at Leuven Blues in Belgium in 2016 showcased her flawless talent and stage presence.
Fireflies: A Personal and Artistic Milestone
Her latest solo album, Fireflies, marks her fifth release. Unlike her previous records, this collection emphasizes original compositions. Danielle plays bass guitar on every track, supported by a talented group of musicians including Brandon Miller, Jim Pugh, Tony Braunagel, Melodye Perry, and Maxayne Moriguchi. The album was produced by Tony Braunagel and recorded live to analog tape in her hometown of Kansas City, Missouri.
A Dynamic Opening: “Radical Love”
The album kicks off with “Radical Love,” a track that immediately grabs your attention. It starts with a catchy guitar riff, followed by Danielle’s passionate vocals. As the song unfolds, a funky rhythm takes center stage, complemented by vibrant keyboard and guitar sections. Written by Jodi Siegel and Jeff Silbar, it delivers a message of hope and unity — “Radical love is all we need,” Danielle sings with conviction.
Collaborations and Intimate Moments
Luther Dickinson joins Danielle on “Take Me Back,” infusing the song with a gritty, funky blues vibe. His slide guitar adds a layer of raw emotion, perfectly fitting the song’s nostalgic lyrics about her small-town upbringing. The track reflects memories of back porches, railroad tracks, and coal fires, creating a vivid picture of her roots.
Emotional Depth in “Memories”
Shifting gears, Danielle slows down for “Memories,” an intimate ballad that highlights her vocal range. Her voice carries a mix of tenderness and longing as she asks, “Why has love got to be such a funny thing?” The song features beautiful piano work and a passionate vocal delivery that draws listeners into her world of reflection and heartbreak.
Themes of Pain and Resilience
Songs like “Soulside” and “Gaslight” explore pain, empowerment, and resilience. “Soulside” has a soulful, groove-driven feel, with lyrics about feeling out of place amid grief but finding healing through love. “Gaslight” opens with her voice supported only by drums, then explodes into a groove that’s both funky and attitude-filled. It’s a song about standing up for oneself and reclaiming power.
Covering Classics with Personal Flair
The album features two covers of Bill Withers’ songs. “The Same Love That Made Me Laugh” boasts a strong bassline and heartfelt interpretation, while “Dreams” from Withers’ 1976 album Naked & Warm showcases her soulful versatility. Both tracks highlight her ability to breathe new life into timeless classics.
A Reflection on Growth and Future Horizons
Closing with the title track “Fireflies,” Danielle offers a poetic reflection on growing up. It’s about the fleeting nature of youth and the quiet transition into adult responsibilities. The song’s soothing melody and emotional depth serve as a perfect finale to this heartfelt collection.
Conclusion: A Bold Step Forward
Fireflies stands as a testament to Danielle Nicole’s artistry. It blends blues, soul, and R&B into a deeply personal and musically rich experience. Inspired by loss, resilience, and her roots, this album showcases her evolution as a songwriter and performer. With her powerful voice and masterful musicianship, Danielle continues to shine brightly, capturing new heights in her already illustrious career.
