Full Name | Age | Birthday |
---|---|---|
Nicole Prescovia Elikolani Valiente Scherzinger | 45 | June 29, 1978 |
Death Date | – | |
Birth Sign | Cancer | |
Born | United States | |
Relationship | Single | |
Height | 5‘ 5" (165 cm) | |
Net Worth | $14 million |
Nicole Scherzinger is a multi-talented American singer, dancer, actress, and television personality who rose to fame in the 2000s as the lead singer of pop group The Pussycat Dolls. With her powerful vocals, show-stopping dance moves, and magnetic stage presence, Nicole has captivated audiences for over two decades and become an influential figure in pop culture.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Nicole Prescovia Elikolani Valiente was born on June 29, 1978 in Honolulu, Hawaii to Alfonso Valiente and Rosemary Elikolani. She is of Hawaiian, Ukrainian, Filipino and Russian descent. As a child, Nicole took performing arts classes and appeared in local theater productions. She attended Meyzeek Middle School as an adolescent, where she began performing with their gospel choir. Later, Nicole went to DuPont Manual High School and was highly involved with their nationally recognized theater program.
After graduating as valedictorian, Nicole won a full scholarship to Wright State University majoring in theater arts and dance. She continued to pursue music by performing in the school‘s Emerald Jazz band and appearing in over 20 student musical productions. In 1999, Nicole got her big break on television when she became a member of the short-lived girl group Eden‘s Crush. Their single "Get Over Yourself" reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. After the group disbanded, Nicole signed with Elektra Records and started working on her solo album "Her Name is Nicole" while also providing backing vocals for artists like Jessica Simpson and Kylie Minogue.
Rise to Fame with The Pussycat Dolls
In 2003, Nicole auditioned for a burlesque troupe turned recording act called The Pussycat Dolls. With her mesmerizing stage presence and vocal range spanning over 4 octaves, she was selected to become the group‘s lead singer. The Pussycat Dolls released their debut album PCD in 2005, which included major hits like "Don‘t Cha", "Buttons", and "Stickwitu". The album was a huge commercial success selling over 9 million copies worldwide.
Nicole‘s sultry singing voice, dazzling dance routines, and camera-friendly looks made her the undisputed star of the group. She sang lead vocals on the majority of The Pussycat Dolls‘ songs, helping transform them into one of the best-selling girl groups of all time. The group embarked on several sold-out concert tours and their music videos featuring Nicole‘s enviable dance skills became hugely popular. At the peak of their fame, The Pussycat Dolls had legions of devoted fans around the world mesmerized by their glamorous, sexy image which Nicole helped cultivate.
Successful Solo Career
While still a member of The Pussycat Dolls, Nicole successfully ventured into solo projects as well. She released her first studio album Her Name is Nicole in 2007 which included pop hits like "Whatever U Like", "Baby Love" and "Supervillain". It debuted at #23 on the Billboard 200 chart.
After The Pussycat Dolls announced their hiatus in 2010, Nicole transitioned completely into a solo music career. She collaborated with numerous artists on popular dance songs like Timbaland‘s "Scream" and Armin Van Buuren‘s "Drowning". Her single "Don‘t Hold Your Breath" off her sophomore album Killer Love peaked at #3 on the UK Singles Chart. The album also contained the top 10 hits "Right There" and "Wet".
Nicole has released a steady stream of singles in recent years like "Your Love", "Run", "Moves Like Jagger" and "When I Grow Up". She continues to evolve her sound which is a mix of pop, R&B and soulful dance music. After over two decades in the music industry, Nicole still possesses the same powerful voice and show-stopping performance skills that helped rocket her to stardom.
Television Appearances
Aside from her music career, Nicole has appeared as a judge/coach on several popular television shows. In 2010, she won Season 10 of Dancing with the Stars showing off her exceptional dancing ability. She joined The X Factor judging panel first in 2011 during Season 1. After a few years away, she returned to the show in 2016 for Season 13.
Nicole was also a judge on musical competition series The Masked Singer for the first 3 seasons. She‘s guest starred on shows like Half & Half, Las Vegas, CSI: NY, How I Met Your Mother and had a recurring role on NBC‘s Young & Hungry. In 2019, Nicole played the role of Grizabella in the film adaptation of the musical Cats.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Throughout her career, Nicole has supported various charities and causes she feels passionate about. She has worked with organizations that advocate for people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ rights, cancer research, homelessness, environmental protection, and more.
In 2020, Nicole helped launch the "Black Eyes Matter" initiative to fight against racism in partnership with the Black Lives Matter movement. She aims to utilize her platform to promote diversity, inclusion, and justice. Nicole frequently auctions off personal items to donate proceeds to charities and also volunteers her time.
Personal Life Details
Nicole met British Formula One racing driver Lewis Hamilton at the 2007 MTV Europe Music Awards ceremony. They dated on and off until 2015. In 2008, Nicole got engaged to American musician Benji Madden. However, the pair called off their engagement the following year.
From 2010 to 2019, Nicole was in a high-profile relationship with Bulgarian tennis player Grigor Dimitrov. They were reportedly engaged but separated in early 2019 after three years together.
Nicole is a devout Catholic and has expressed how faith, family, music and giving back are central focuses in her life. She remains close with her parents Rosemary and Alfonso and younger sister Keala who has served as one of her backup dancers.
Accolades and Achievements
- Dancing with the Stars Mirrorball Trophy Winner (2010)
- Billboard Music Award for Top Dance Club Artist (2011)
- Glamour Award for US TV Personality of the Year (2012)
- Honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (2018)
- Sold over 16 million singles worldwide
- Named Maxim Hot 100 Woman of the Year (2013)
- Received the Inspirational Award from Harvard‘s S.H.A.D.E. organisation (2022)
5 Fun Facts About Nicole
- Her stage name was inspired by actress Nicole Kidman
- Can sing in 5 languages: English, Spanish, French, Filipino and Japanese
- Has a 4-octave vocal range
- Sang "Reflection" in Mulan for her artist audition at age 17
- Loves to cook and experiment in the kitchen
Nicole Scherzinger stands out as one of the most talented entertainers of her generation. She has showcased her powerhouse vocals, show-stopping dance talents, and effervescent charisma across various mediums over the past 20+ years. Nicole‘s passion for music and performing is evident each time she takes the stage. She remains an inspiration for aspiring artists everywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Nicole Scherzinger‘s birthday?
Nicole Scherzinger was born on June 29, 1978. She is currently 45 years old.
What was Nicole‘s big break into the music industry?
Nicole‘s first major break was becoming part of the short-lived group Eden‘s Crush in 1999. Their single "Get Over Yourself" reaching #1 really helped launch Nicole‘s music career.
How many records have The Pussycat Dolls sold worldwide?
The Pussycat Dolls have sold over 54 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling girl groups of all time.
What are some of Nicole‘s biggest solo hits?
Some of Nicole‘s most popular solo singles are "Don‘t Hold Your Breath", "Right There", "Wet", "Your Love", and "Baby Love."
What causes is Nicole passionate about?
Nicole actively supports various charities and social causes including LGBTQ+ rights, racial justice, cancer research, disabilities, homelessness and environmental protection.