DALLAS, TX. (MSI Media Management) - If there is a positive addiction in the world, it's likely the one a gospel, hip hop and neo-soul-music lover acquires after taking in the flavor of "Original Soul" artist KNAGUI (pronounced "nah-GUY") on his "The Meaning of Love" compact disc (Soul Inspired Recordings a division of 7:06PM Entertainment Group). That's absolutely what happened to the classically-trained vocalist and CEO of m strategies inc. (MSI) L. Michelle Smith and the company's panel of music professionals and media strategists after listening to a few of the tracks for the first time. As a result, the company's individual brand division MSI Media Management has signed KNAGUI in an 18-month deal to bring his music to the masses.
"KNAGUI is doing for gospel music and neo-soul what Kirk Franklin did for gospel and hip-hop," said Smith. "It is a first, and it's long overdue. The best way to describe it is that it's a musical fusion feast for those of us who have been waiting for someone to smooth off the edges of gospel and hip-hop. It is a much-needed soothing salve for our neo-souls...a message of love and hope."
Singles from "The Meaning of Love" are spinning on play lists on gospel and R&B stations in more than a dozen markets across the country including, but not limited to, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Little Rock, New Orleans, Cleveland, Dallas, Miami, Orlando and Baltimore. His music is also popular in Europe as he has toured or appeared in parts of Italy, Austria, Germany and Switzerland. KNAGUI has done spot dates in Chicago, Dallas, Philadelphia, The Carolinas, his hometown of York, (Pennsylvania), and Baltimore opening for the likes of Angie Stone, Anthony Hamilton, Cameo, Jill Scott and Calvin Richardson.
And while some people call it gospel, KNAGUI describes his flavor, Original Soul, as more than a genre, but a movement.
"It is music built and created by the soul, for the soul," he said, citing all of his inspiration to be from the only form of music that was allowed to be played in his home as a child (gospel music), and many of its artists, including his godmother, gospel great Twinkie Clark. However, some say his music is reminiscent of the inspirations of Angie Stone or Anthony Hamilton and for a good reason. Beside the fact that they have appeared on the same stages, they consider themselves good friends and colleagues.
"I told Angie about the 'Original Soul' concept back in 2001. It was just an idea, but I pitched it so well that she wanted to hear what I had recorded," said KNAGUI. "And like a true Mama, she scolded me and encouraged me to do more than simply talk about it. The rest is history in the making."
Besides the most popular tracks, "Blessed Assurance"-an easy, soulful remake of the classic hymn-and "So Good," the artist's tribute to his relationship with Christ, a closer listen to the CD will reveal a hidden track called "Jehovah Jireh." The lyrics are written to the tune of Ms. Stone's "Brotha" with her sincere blessings and endorsement. And she isn't the only top recording artist singing KNAGUI's praises.
"You're not afraid!" said John P. Kee after witnessing KNAGUI's performance during an artist showcase. "(Your music is) gonna go outside the four walls (of the church) and reach those who would never step foot inside the church."
KNAGUI has just wrapped up an appearance in his hometown of York, Pennsylvania, and is in the midst of producing an all-woman gospel review to tour Europe Winter 2005-2006 called "The Women of God." The musical, which could be called a soulful "Godspell," will trace the journey of gospel music from historic Africa to modern day America through feminine footsteps. The entire show is sung with some choreography and few spoken words.
For more information and KNAGUI music samples, lyrics, news, photos, booking information and more, log on to www.knagui.com. "The Meaning of Love" is currently available for purchase online at www.buy.knagui.com.
MSI Media Management is the division of Dallas-based m strategies inc. that represents individual brands. With senior counselors in New York; Los Angeles; Dallas; Chicago; Washington D.C. and the Carolinas, it specializes in media and brand management.
KNAGUI is 7:06PM Entertainment Group's premiere artist and songwriter. For booking information, contact S.O.I. Talent Management Firm at [email protected] or call 972-235-7506.
