Throughout his development, Nic found himself immersed and enthralled by styles as far ranging as jazz, reggae, punk, hip hop, jam band, house, and world music. After earning a music degree from California State University, Long Beach, the trumpet became his ticket to the world. He has performed on three continents, at festivals including Glastonbury and Coachella, on legendary stages including the Hollywood Bowl and Greek Theater, and on live productions such as the Late Show with David Letterman. Artists Nic has performed with include Thievery Corporation, Wu Tang Clan, Belle & Sebastian, and funk legend George Clinton. 

As a producer, Nic Hale Chaffee provides artistic direction to everything from local independent artists to international touring acts. His work has been heard on top-rated podcasts, network TV shows, and even Hollywood films.

He is also a full-fledged creative partner in the world-funk jam band Delta Nove, and was the musical director of the Backbeat Brass, the horn section for the pioneering electronic music act BoomBox.

Now, as a solo artist, he draws upon on the wide array of funk and world music sounds that have shaped his career up to this point to create his own original sound - his very own ‘Playground.’