UNÉ

The self-taught singer/songwriter UNÉ (pronounced “you nay”) chose this name to express his universal, eternal and soulful spirit. The Detroit native began his dream, singing in clubs and churches in the Motor City.  When you hear UNÉ, on his debut self-titled CD, you experience his heartfelt sound—smooth, strong and at the same time, gentle.

It wasn’t until I was given a second chance at life, that I learned to love myself,” admits Uné.

As he sings about life’s journeys, you know that he has experienced a myriad of peaks and valleys. His travels give his music a deep resonant texture, as evidenced by “I Can Remember.”

Uné’s style is reminiscent of Marvin Gaye and Luther Vandross—at the same time, it evokes the neo-soul vibe of John Legend and Anthony Hamilton.

Make no mistake, Uné delivers a serious R&B sound that is smooth and sensual with a jazz feel, as evidenced by cuts “I Really Love U Love,” “You Complete Me” and “I Won’t Complain.”

“I wanted to do an album that was rooted in R&B, but would transcend being pigeon-holed. I wanted this CD to be embraced universally,” he added

“The songs primarily come from personal experiences and from people that were close to me,” he said. It explains cuts like “Lady You Are” and “Hit the Shaw.”

“My goal was that my songs would touch the very soul of a person--to take them on a journey with me, whether its traveling the byways of love or the passages of hurt, I wanted this CD to be a spiritual ride we (the listener) both could share,” says Uné.

The Uné CD became a reality, after he moved to Los Angeles, and formedUNET Music and Entertainment with Carmela C. Martin, a record producer from Los Angeles, and his cousin, Ernest Thomas. Thomas, best known as “Raj” from the hit television series, “What’s Happening” and other television and motion picture roles that include  “Malcolm X”.

Uné’s childhood buddy, Sterling G., a prolific writer and producer, produced the CD along with co-producer Carmela C. Martin.

Music industry lawyer John W. Smith, and his son, Ken, of Native Records, signed UNÉ to Native/Fontana/Universal in May, 2006.

UNÉ’s appeal is ageless--which was apparent at a recent performance at BB King’s in L.A., where he showcased songs from the CD and received a standing ovation.

One fan commented, “You’re the only singer I’ve seen who sounds better than his CD!”

His sensual, compassionate and intimate nature flows into his live performances, touching the heart and spirit of his audience. 

For those who don’t have the opportunity to enjoy a soul-filled journey with Uné in concert—the CD is the next best thing to being there.