Nicky Vala started playing the keyboard about the time that he started walking.  His father Flavian Vala was an accomplished vibrophone player with the big band era.  Blind at the age of two from eye Cancer, Nicky was able to adapt music into his life performing as a soloist at the age of three and migrating to a multitude of musical activities such as teaching, solo performances and church performances.  Over time, Nicky was in the concert and Jazz groups of Verona High school.  He added to the winning of many awards for Verona.

Ironically, Nicky met Joe in HB Whitehorne Middle school in Verona where they both attended.  Joe was chosen to escort Nick around the school and that is how their friendship began and still goes strong to this day.

Over the years Nicky performed with many groups around the Jersey Shore area.  In 1999 Nicky was in between groups and so was Joey.  He decided to join forces with Joey and the rest is history.

Nicky has been instrumental in "The Family's" musical revue shows "A Night at the 500 Club" and "The Joey Arminio & The Family USO Variety Show" as he provides  the musical background, left handed bass, narration and much of the background vocals.  His solid keyboard style is the foundation of the group's sound allowing Joey, Doreen and the dancers to create the Show up front.

Nick has co-produced many albums along with his associate Ed Austin. He also lent a strong ear and guided precision to "The Family's " albums.  Nick will be co-writing originals, and working on music videos with "The Family" this year.  He has his heart set on touring the country with the Joey Arminio and "The Family"  musical revue shows.