Nick was born in San Diego, California, USA in 1971. He relocated to San Francisco in 1989 and quickly became a prime mover in the local Rhythm & Blues scene: forming the Loved Ones in 1990 and Ron Silva & the Monarchs in 1993. His move to the Hammond organ and jazz music was signaled by the debut of the Nick Rossi Set at the end of 1997 at the legendary In 'n' Out Club.

The Set quickly established itself as a premier headline attraction while sharing the stage with such acts as the James Taylor Quartet, Ozomatli, and Big Boss Man. The group appeared throughout their native California in addition to appearances in England and Spain. Their recordings have been released by Acid Jazz (UK), Trouble & Tea (Spain), Bip Bip (Spain), and most notably the underground favorite Blow It Hard Records (UK). "Monkeyshines", which was the debut single from NRS on BIH, was a DJ hit within weeks of release. The group recently returned from their third European tour, which included their debut in Italy. Their latest release is their own instrumental arrangement of "Spooky" out now on Flare Records.

Although the sound of the group has continues to change and progress over time, the musical goal of the Nick Rossi Set has always been to provide music for the head, feet, and souls of it's fans. By digging deep into the classic soul-jazz and boogaloo bags of Blue Note and Prestige Records and adding a healthy shot of R&B, soul, and funk – the group continues to hit the mark.

Nicks lists his favorite organists as Big John Patton, Brother Jack McDuff, Larry Young, and Brian Auger. Among his contemporaries: Rory O'Donoghue, Adam Scone, Wil Blades, and Paolo Negri are at the top of his list. Other inspirations include Herbie Hancock, Joseph Campbell, Noam Chomsky, and Federico Fellini.