With a self-described sound of urban, R&B music with bass, Chicago R&B artist Brandon “Brand ‘Nu” Hawkins wants his music to be streamed in three places: the car, the club and the bedroom.

Stemming from the childhood influence of music from his mom, who brought him a guitar, and his aunt who took him for rides in her black Pontiac, Brand ‘Nu was always interested in creating and listening to music. James Brown or Anita Baker were always the soundtrack of choice.  As a young adult, church enhanced that interest, creating a passion for Brand ‘Nu to see people’s emotions as he performed on the stage.

He says, “The fact that I can reach people like that… I want them [audience] to feel my music”, which furthered his passion to be a artist. His style is influenced by the bodies of work from Erykah Badu, Tank, Bilal and Beyoncé.

When Brand ‘Nu goes to paper to pen his lyrics, he uses life experiences and emotion as he writes from a personal space of hurt and new love. His debut album, Helluva Nite was created from those experiences.  Give “Wanna Play?” a listen below and feel free to let us know your thoughts.

https://soundcloud.com/brandnu4real/wanna-play

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