Nico (1938 - 1988) was
born in Cologne, her real name was Christa Päffgen. At the age of 16 she met a photographer called Herbert Tobias while they were both
were working at a fashion show in Berlin. It was Herbert who suggested
she change her name to Nico. She got a job modelling for Vogue magazine and
moved to Paris and then to New York. In 1963 Nico appears in two films, Fellini’s
La Dolce Vita and Jacques Poitrenaud’s Strip-Tease. In 65 she took singing
lessons and began collaborating with English musicians such as Jimmy Page and
Brian Jones. It was Jones who introduced her to Andy Warhol which led to her
singing three songs on the very highly regarded The Velvet Underground &
Nico album. Nico recorded many solo records that inspired musicians such as The
Cure, Patti Smith, Morrissey, Björk, Joy Division, and Siouxsie
and the Banshees. Several biographies about Nico’s life has been published and
in 2019 Maxine Peake portrayed her in a play called The Nico Project.
Above: Nico by Daisy de Villeneuve
Above: Nico by Ritchie Lamy
Above: Nico #1 by Francis Macdonald
Above: Nico #2 by Francis Macdonald
Above: Nico by Sandra Turnbull
Femme - Her Anthem is the 14th charity album by the Specialized Project It is a vibrant celebration of legendary female songwriters, reimagined through the energetic and rhythmic lens of Ska music. Featuring exclusive tracks by Ska bands from around the globe, the album unites international talent to honour the groundbreaking contributions of iconic women in music history.
With each band lending its unique style and interpretation, the album pays homage to diverse eras and genre within a Ska or Reggae interpretations, highlighting the creative legacy of female artists who have shaped music over the years. Proceeds from this album support important charitable causes, making it not only a tribute but a meaningful contribution to social good.
