Franz Nicolay

FRANZ NICOLAY is a multi-talented artist who wears many hats – literally and figuratively. With his signature handlebar mustache and an impressive collection of hats, including a top hat that rivals Abraham Lincoln's, Nicolay is not your average musician.

Hailing from New York City, Nicolay is perhaps best known for his role as the keyboardist and accordion player for The Hold Steady, a band that has been called "the best bar band in America" by none other than Bruce Springsteen. But don't let his key-tickling skills fool you – Nicolay is also a talented singer-songwriter in his own right.

Having released a string of solo albums, Nicolay's music is a unique blend of indie rock, folk, and punk influences. His witty lyrics and catchy melodies have earned him a cult following and critical acclaim from music critics far and wide.

But Nicolay is not just a musician – he is also a writer, journalist, and all-around renaissance man. When he's not onstage, you can find him penning essays for the New Yorker, hosting a radio show on NPR, or teaching a class on Russian literature at a local community college.

In an industry that often prizes conformity over creativity, Nicolay is a breath of fresh air. With his eclectic taste in hats and music, his infectious energy, and his unwavering dedication to his craft, he is truly a one-of-a-kind artist. Keep an eye out for Nicolay – you never know what he'll do next.