Chhom Nimol was born in Battambang, Cambodia, a city steeped in traditional folk music, to parents who were themselves renowned folk singers. Her older sister, Chorvin, a celebrated singer in Cambodia, encouraged Nimol to sing from a young age, nurturing her talent and setting her on a path that would one day lead her to international acclaim.
As a child, Nimol's love for singing was evident, and her siblings, who would also go on to make names for themselves in the music industry, played a significant role in her development as an artist. Her brother Bunyong is a famous singer in Cambodia, while her brother Monychout works as a music producer.
Nimol's remarkable talent was first recognized when she won the inaugural "Apsara Awards" in Cambodia in 1997, a competition similar to "American Idol." This prestigious win opened doors to international performances, and she went on to sing in renowned venues such as Paris and Australia. Nimol's impressive repertoire also earned her the opportunity to perform for the King and Queen of Cambodia, a testament to her exceptional skill and artistry.
In addition to her singing, Nimol has also ventured into acting, appearing in a film produced for Cambodian royalty, where she played the role of a young peasant girl. This versatility and range have solidified her position as a talented and multifaceted artist.
However, it is as the lead singer of the popular Los Angeles-based band, Dengue Fever, that Nimol is perhaps best known. Discovered in 2001 by her future band members in an area of Long Beach called "Little Phnom Penh," where she was singing in Cambodian dinner clubs, Dengue Fever has released four full-length LPs, numerous EPs, singles, and remixes, cementing their position as a respected and beloved band in the music world.
