I'm an author and the president of a record company, but my true passion lies in connecting with people and sharing my story in person. I've been invited to speak at renowned venues like London's Institute of Contemporary Arts (ICA), SXSW (as a keynote speaker), Blkswn Tokyo, The Center for Brooklyn History, and prestigious universities including UCLA, Duke, NYU, and the University of Iowa.

I draw from my critically acclaimed memoir, but it's more than a book discussion. My story is highly personal that strikes a universal and relatable chord with audiences. At its core, it’s a story about what it takes to create, foster, and build a community. It’s about unity and solidarity, and most of all, it’s about belonging.

As a biracial individual who grew up in predominantly white spaces, I can offer a unique perspective on the crucial topic of race in America. Delving into the many forms that diversity can take, I also tell interconnected stories about discovering my enslaved ancestors, cultivating connections while touring around the world as a drummer in a rock band, and my unlikely journey from an $8-per-hour record store employee to becoming the president of a company representing icons like Radiohead, The National, and Adele. 

This is an unforgettable interactive presentation, weaving together photos, music, videos, and my passion for storytelling. It traverses the globe, crosses cultures, and spans decades. All in a brisk but epic 45 minutes. It’s my hope that audiences will leave feeling inspired and emotionally connected—not only to my story, but to the people around them and to their own communities.

For availability and fees please contact: Ali Hedrick - ali@arrivalartists.com

Nabil Ayers was one of the very best guest speakers we have had come to UGA. The intertwining stories of his musical and personal journey were inspiring to our students and showed the sense of community that resonates in every stage of Nabil's career.  The whole event imbued a sense of belonging.  I feel that our students came away with both what they expected and so much more.  - David Barbe, University of Georgia

With growing fascination and heartbreak, he draws out meaning from the shadow of absence, and ultimately redefines what it means to be a family. - Michelle Zauner, New York Times bestselling author of Crying in H Mart and Grammy nominated musician Japanese Breakfast

thoughtful, generous, wise, and essential. – John Hodgman, New York Times Bestselling author, comedian, and actor

This story is for anybody who has ever tried to find the missing puzzle pieces in their own life. - Daveed Diggs, Grammy and Tony award winning actor, musician, writer, and producer