Umbrella Records, Inc. Presents R&B Recording Artists Rena Rose and A.J.
-Boutique Record Label Brings Together Eclectic Mix of Modern Urban Music-

NEW YORK, N.Y.—Born out of New York City’s eclectic diversity, new label Umbrella Records, Inc. (www.umbrellarecords.com) covers the wide spectrum of modern urban music: hip-hop, soul, jazz, R&B, dance, and rock. Started in May 2008 by Nigerian born Usman Balogun, the label serves as the home for a collective of artists informed by their street-smart background and creative songwriting.

Always pushing for the concept of “family” behind his projects, Usman was born into a deep tradition of African music. His father, Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, a.k.a. Barry Black, is one of Nigeria’s most revered musicians, having a career that has spanned for over 40 years. He introduced Usman to the business side and many leading performers, including the influential Fela and Femi Kuti.

Coming to New York City in 1997, Usman has soaked up influences beyond his roots. When interviewed for brooklynradio.net, he described his taste ranging from the futuristic soul of Craig David, the gritty raps of Tupac, and the soaring choruses of goth-rocking Evanescence.

“Anything with passion that you can really feel is the music I want to put out through Umbrella Records,” says Usman. “I’m not interested in getting caught up in genre distinctions.”

For its debut releases, Umbrella Records presents the jazz and soul singer Rena Rose and her first single, “My Life” and the R&B full length from A.J., Make It To the Top.

Incorporating autobiographical lyrics with aching, stripped soul vocals, the young mother of two, Rena Rose, has been compared to Lauryn Hill and takes inspiration from Etta James, Christina Aguilera and Enya. Having written songs since the age of six, she has spent her life working jazz and blues clubs to sharpen her craft.

“Music,” Rena Rose says, “is my therapy.” And with it, she wants to show her kids the efforts of hard work and remaining humble.

“My Life” reflects on regret and the choices we’re born into. Having struggled to raise two kids and build a music career, there have been many sacrifices on her part to have reached this point. But instead of lamenting, she delivers an unapologetic chorus that rings with a low lit clav horn: “This is my life/I ain’t got nothing to prove.”

Raised on funk, soul, and disco in the creative community of Chesapeake, Virginia, A.J. approaches R&B with points that connect urban classics with modern hip-hop production. While they come from different parts of the state, A.J. has a sound that compares with both successful natives Chris Brown and Trey Songz.

“I want to make music that makes people dance and grab another drink,” says A.J. “But at the same time, I want to make music that lets people know I understand them.”