Natural ability, a strong will, and intense determination has propelled Nicholas Naylor forward to this point in his career. There are many ways to describe Nicholas: unique, talented and charismatic. Above all, Nicholas Naylor is real. He sing’s honestly from his heart combining life’s journey, experience, personal testimony and musical talent to tell others about God and allow him to work in their lives through faith. Nicholas began the organization as a solo ministry, receiving his call to minister in 2005. He began traveling to local churches through the support of his grandparents; eventually involving his father and brother who also played the piano for many local and regional groups. Over the next decade, God allowed him to build the foundation that remains firm today! Nicholas has been blessed to travel throughout the eastern United States spreading the message of Christ through song. Over that time, he has produced thirteen professional gospel music albums which are played in many homes and radio stations across the United States. In addition to church services and events, Nicholas is proud to continue ministry in a variety of other venues and events as they are scheduled.
Nicholas Naylor has been extremely blessed with many unique opportunities to share his testimony and song. In 2007, he placed 12th of 67 contestants from across the US and Canada at the National Quartet Convention solo competition in Louisville, KY. Additionally, he has received many other honors including artist for the inauguration of West Virginia Governor. Earl Ray Tomblin in 2010 and student artist selection for West Virginia Governors School for the Arts held at West Liberty University. Nicholas received the Dr. Charlene Byrd Award in 2011 as part of Arts and Education. Nicholas also performed for many West Virginia state functions directed by Commissioner Randall Reid-Smith. He studied at the Steve Hurst School of Music being taught by many gospel music industry leaders like Mark Trammall, Roger & Deborah Talley, and others furthering his knowledge of music, evangelism and the gospel music industry.
Tragedy has had a major impact in Nicholas’ life. In 2010, he lost his father Glenn A. Naylor Sr. to alcoholism and suicide. This became a very important time in his life as many very special friends and educators began to play critical roles. In 2012, his mother Tina L. Naylor died of a sudden illness. Both tragedies changed Nicholas in numerous ways also changing his desire to minister and the way in which he would use his talents to help others.
Creativity and visions always were at the forefront of Nicholas’ life, but after the tragedies he experienced, they became instrumental in his ministry. In 2011, he enacted the first ever Christmas Faith Tour. The tour had a two year run touring throughout West Virginia and Pennsylvania with the creation of an album. In 2015, Nicholas was joined by long time friend Dominique Sears who brought a unique duet blend to the ministry. By 2016, Nicholas felt a calling to expand and created The Nicholas Naylor Trio. The first year was a trial run, but by 2017, the group established and spent over two years together. During this time, Nicholas felt the desire to continue the ministries expansion. The official name of the organization was changed in 2018 to The Naylor Network Evangelistic Association and became the vision team and promotors of many gospel music festivals and events including “The Pinch Reunion Gospel Music Jubilee,” “NNEA Concert Series,” and the most notable event in the ministries history “The West Virginia Gospel Music Festival.”
In 2017, Nicholas moved to Raleigh, North Carolina where he currently resides. 2019, brought many notable changes including the final year for Nicholas Naylor & Declaration formerly Nicholas Naylor Trio. In 2020, Nicholas felt that God was leading him to return to a solo ministry. Unfortunately, as the tour began - also began the International Covid-19 virus that impacted ministries and all people across the world. During this time, his online program “NNEA Today,” made a positive impact on social media and as it continues to do today.
In 2021, many modifications were made to Nicholas' life and to the ministry he had been able to serve in for so many years. Over the past 8 years, Nicholas struggled with his authenticity and being his true authentic self. Nicholas always knew in his heart he was different, additionally he knew he loved others different than the traditional teaching in which he was raised with. Because of his deep religious roots and conservative background, it became more of a struggle that produced many mixed feelings and emotions combined with deep hurt and uncertainty. During this time, he began researching and most importantly found himself praying that God would continue to be in the center of his life but show him peace and happiness.
Today, Nicholas takes select engagement’s and work’s through his online ministry to continue the work God placed on his heart as a child. Nicholas continues to stand behind the calling God has placed on his heart. Additionally, he continues to follow the path God has designed for his life through prayer. His greatest hope is that the testimony and message through his life and music will positively impact someones life and show them the true God of Love, Grace and Forgiveness.
Nicholas divides his time in both Raleigh, North Carolina and New York City. He attends The Brooklyn Tabernacle Church - Brooklyn, New York both in person and online . He looks forward to opportunities to meet new people, reconnect with lost contacts, and most importantly pray for peace and love throughout our nation and world.