Bio

Nikayla Byirt (Bye Rit) is the artist behind Nikayla and The phuNk!, a RetroAfrofuturistic Cellist, multi-instrumentalist, and producer blending Funk, Soul, and RnB! Born and raised in Jacksonville, Fl, She attended Arts schools and programs where she was classically trained. Nikayla later graduated from Berklee College of Music in 2023! There she played with Lalah Hathaway, Allen Stone, and multiple ensembles.

Nikayla and The phuNk blends Cello, Bass, Guitar, and Electronics creating a groovy experience one may not expect.

In June 2025 The phuNk released her first album “DEBUT” full of old school Electronic Funk, Soul, and RnB! A intro to her eclectic sound, She self produced, arranged, wrote every lyric, Sang, played and programmed every instrument and Collaborated with Funkmasterway for live drums.

Nikayla and The phuNk chooses to bend the meaning of genre and open doors for those who want to play outside of the boundaries given to them.