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"IT," the commonly overused word in the entertainment industry, which we have all heard hundreds of, times typically referring to an entertainer is an intangible gift which was intended to be reserved for the few who's talents will transcend and stand the test of time.
Unlike the majority of examples the label has been attached to UNÉ (pronounced you-nay). He has been properly labeled and blessed with the gift of "IT."
As I sipped hot chocolate with his publicist Eugenia Wright, I noticed the jovial Detroit native walk into the restaurant and meet me with a huge smile and appreciation for the interview.
Accompanied by his Manager, Ernest Thomas of "What's Happening" fame, I was quickly drawn into UNÉ's story. UNÉ was more than I expected. The steel city didn't create another tin man; this one had a heart and warmth with a great sense of humor.
His move to Los Angeles has been marred by unfortunate sacrifices which had to be made in order to pursue his dream. From local stardom and frequent airplay in Detroit to his marriage and hometown, UNÉ has lost it all sacrificing more than most to reach his goal of entertaining the world with his music.
Through every step, UNÉ has remained resilient and focused and credits his close-knit team for making him an up and coming artist people are beginning to notice. In addition to his Publicist Eugenia Wright and Manager Ernest Thomas, UNÉ also singles out Producer Sterling G. and Co-Producer Carmela C. Martin as a driving force behind him.
The self-titled album "UNÉ" is a soulful semi-stripped album, produced without the flash, smoke and mirrors typical of many artists we hear today. The throwback voice of this Motown singer serenades its listeners through eleven solid tracks, solidifying UNÉ as a new artist the general public needs to know about. The tracks "I Can Remember", "I Really Love You" and "Hit Da Shaw" are songs, which are likely to be on continuous repeat on any CD/ MP3 player. UNÉ has been compared to great vocalists such as Luther Vandross, Carl Anderson and John Legend.
UNÉ is currently the featured artist on the popular UK website "Soulchoonz," and his my space web page www.myspace.com/unesongs which has brought him attention from a large number of domestic and international listeners.
UNÉ is a fan of music. When asked what type of music inspires him, he responded "All." He continued to explain how all music is to be appreciated and by finding the beauty in all genres, his music can only become more versatile and powerful. With that answer, it all makes sense as to why UNÉ will become a successful artist. He understands music not only as a musician, but also as a producer and consumer. UNÉ was raised on legendary artists such as Tony Bennett, Miles Davis, Frank Sinatra and Smokey Robinson and through his music; you can hear their influences. In addition, UNÉ has kept his music fresh and new age by injecting his old school flavor with updated flare. Jay-Z, Beyoncé, 50 Cent and Common all hold an inspirational chamber in his heart.
As I spent a portion of my afternoon laughing and enjoying the company I shared a small table with, I realized my time was coming to a close. My interview with UNÉ, Ernest and Eugenia was one of the most enjoyable interviews I had ever done. In closing, Ernest added, "If UNÉ does everything I tell him to do, he will be a success." The statement was soon met with laughter from Ernest himself and the three of us followed suit. The tandem is like a comedy act, but all business when need be. Ernest is extremely proud to be associated with UNÉ and mentions that not only is UNÉ focused on his singing, but also in his community and gives back every chance he gets. There isn't a hometown in America that wouldn't want to claim UNÉ as its own. Detroit has once again produced an amazing vocalist, this time "It" by the name of UNÉ.