Niko B

Austin's stage name is a reference to Niko Bellic, the protagonist of Grand Theft Auto IV.[2]

He began by releasing his first single, "Mary Berry",[3] with lyrics focusing around life in small-town Britain.[3] This song's popularity gave him the chance to tour with rappers K.O and V9.[4] In an interview with Clash, Austin says he vomited before every performance, and technical issues during the first show meant he instead sang happy birthday to a girl in the front row.[5] His most popular single, "Who's That What's That" was released in May 2020. It became a top 40 hit in the UK, and peaked at No. 26 on the UK Singles Chart.[6][7] The song's success was boosted by viral marketing on social media platforms Instagram and TikTok.[2]

In 2021 Niko B played The 1Xtra Dance stage at the Reading and Leeds Festivals and released two new singles, International Baby and It's All Gone.[8]

Niko also runs his own clothing label, CROWD, which is often featured in his music videos.[3][9]

Niko B covers multiple genres, with "nothing off limits in terms of style."[7] For example in an interview with Vogue, Austin said he wanted to have his own style[10] with his lyrics, for example referencing removing a gherkin from a McDonalds Big Mac burger, written to be relatable to young British people but also unique to him. [10] [11] Media outlets have consistently praised his lyrical storytelling, often comparing him to Mike Skinner of The Streets. Reviewers have also emphasised his hook writing and individual approach to the vocal style of rap. [7][8]