Digital success story: Indie single becomes No 1 on iTunes R&B/Soul Chart

SAN FRANCISCO (www.ingrooves.com) - For the better part of August, the No 1 single on the iTunes R&B/Soul chart has not been from Beyonce or Usher but from breakout R&B star, Kieran. Once you listen to the sultry, mid-tempo "R U Awake" single you won't be surprised that it has done so well on iTunes, after spending most of June and July as the No 1 song on the entire Real music service.
What is surprising is that it was released digitally through INgrooves (www.ingrooves.com), in conjunction with Kieran's label, Black Rain Records, before any physical distribution deals were arranged. INgrooves is not just another mini-major record label; they are the world's largest digital record company and have emerged as a new breed of digital label that works closely with artists and small labels in the dance, electronic, hip-hop and R&B/Soul genres to distribute and market their music online.
San Francisco-based INgrooves now represents over 500 artists and labels for digital distribution, ring tones and licensing opportunities.

Robb McDaniels, INgrooves CEO, comments: "The emergence of the digital music industry over the past few years has leveled the playing field for artists and indie labels. It has also empowered music fans by giving them more selection and the opportunity to appreciate non-major content. INgrooves' goal is to work with artists and labels to distribute their music and then maximize the online marketing exposure it receives. At the end of the day, we simply want consumers to decide what music merits reward rather than leaving it in the hands of a dated A&R and distribution system."

Bringing R&B back to its roots, Kieran is planning to release his entire self-titled debut album this fall. The album is a mix of old school R&B with elements of funk and hip-hop, creating a sound that tips its hat to the founders while providing something innovative and fresh. A 20 year-old Brooklyn native, Kieran co-wrote 11 songs on the album and worked with a number of top producers in the industry.