Niki Reflects on Opening for Taylor Swift in 2014

In 2014, a 15-year-old Nicole Zefanya, now known as Niki, opened for Taylor Swift during the Red Tour stop in Jakarta, Indonesia. Reflecting on the experience, Niki, now 25, admitted she “blacked out” during her performance, recalling little more than walking on and off stage. The crowd of over 8,000 was overwhelming, but despite her fear, she envisioned herself singing alone in her room, which deepened her love for live performance.

A decade later, Niki has built a dedicated fanbase and moved to the U.S. at 18 to further her music career. She signed with the Asian-American label 88rising and has accumulated over 3.3 billion Spotify streams across her two EPs and two albums. Her latest album, ‘Buzz’ will be supported by a 41-stop world tour covering North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.

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In ‘Buzz’, Niki explores her experiences in her 20s, including the impact of her breakup with musician Jacob Ray. She used the album to process her emotions and confront existential questions. The tour has invigorated her, as she embraces new routines and connections, including a recent reunion with friend Maisie Peters.

Niki, who admires Taylor Swift’s influence on her career, continues to balance her life between Los Angeles and Indonesia, appreciating her dual homes.

–Farheen Ali