Even though Portsmouth, Virginia-based singer Nicole Wray was only 17 years old when she was introduced to multi-platinum certified recording artist Missy Elliot, Wray made a strong impression and Elliot offered her a recording contract. Shortly thereafter, Wray recorded her 1997 debut album, with Elliot and Timbaland producing, and the the LP, Make it Hot, shot to number 42 on the Billboard album charts. The release helped establish Wray as an empowered female vocalist who performs in a genre that is typically overwrought with male musicians. Since dropping Make it Hot, Wray has managed to keep busy by contributing guest vocals to a diverse roster of talent including Kid Cudi, Jim Jones and The Black Keys hip-hop collaborative project Blackroc.
