Unique

Everyone has a story. A journey they’ve embarked on whether they knew to call it that along the way or not. Unique Zayas’ story would start out something like this: Perseverance, determination, passion, skill, guts…power words that describe most journeys that are littered with ups, downs and even more ups if you got the heart. These words also ring true for this refreshingly talented and unmanufactured crooner. Unique Zayas, a name well known to so many familiar with his presence in music yet unheard of by some, is in that place of inevitable victory. It will mark his journey as a success story like many of his musical peers and the icons before him who have traveled the same bumpy road. This singer/ songwriter can write an unforgettable record and if needed to, a New York Times Best Seller’s book on what it takes for a male solo R&B/Pop artist to make it in the music industry. His massive fan base would agree. Yet, for him it started a little under two decades ago with humble beginnings and a dream. Singing since the age of 5, this 21 year-old Brooklynite bred in the projects of Bedford Stuyvesant, has gone from school talent shows to major arena tours with some of music’s biggest names all before having a major deal. But when that shining moment came through a signing with Def Jam Records and went without an official release, unrelenting, Unique and his team maintained their pace and this budding star showcased the above words as any extremely talented individual would. “Breath of fresh air”, “Filling a void in music”, “Amazing” are some of the quotes heard in association with his name. Musically he sounds like he’s from another era, as if he ran with the icons of the 80’s. Rock, Pop, Hip Hop R&B-a mix of all these elements can be found in perfect unison within the richness of his production. From the guitar riffs gripping the ears of the listener to the precision of the drums and the pounding of the bass…Unique steps into each session with a goal in mind, making music to withstand the ages. Longevity is key, crucial even. A session with Unique usually has a mix of witty banter, light to eruptions of laughter or that seriousness that comes when something memorable is being created. Only songs of that caliber can be achieved when his pen is in hand while collaborating with powerhouse songwriters like Claude Kelly who is responsible for Billboard chart toppers with Miley Cyrus – Party in the USA, Jason Derulo – In My Head, and Ke$ha – Take it Off and up and comers like Lil Eddie Serrano who simply “get him”. BMI, the performing rights giant has also recognized this talent by honoring Unique as one of their selected “Who’s Next-Writers on the Rise.” The booth has become his second home and it is understood that greatness takes time and effort. Unique plans to showcase this with records like the hard-hitting iTunes released “Maniac” (co-written by August Rush, produced by Ty Deals with co-produced credits by Grammy Award winning producer Jon Jon). Many other infectious records are being cultivated for his forthcoming US release under his own imprint Star Power Media (SPM) and the tutelage of his manager and co-Executive Producer Michael “Make” Mentore for Impact Records. Unique is seriously carving out a lane for himself in the current era of music. Yes, overstated by many but proven true in every aspect of the word in his case. It’s undeniable. From his sound to his strong sense of self, Unique is complete and ready to shake up the music industry and the world as a whole. He’s put this to the test by taking his image and sound overseas to Japan, the 2nd largest musical territory in the world, with his 4th quarter 2010 release “From Brooklyn to You” under Star Power Media/ Manhattan Records. Album cuts like “Wherever You Are” featuring songstress Charice and co-written by Claude Kelly, produced by Jeff Miyahara has peaked at the #1 slot on Japan R&B/Soul charts for 4 consecutive weeks. Unique has proven himself yet again to be what his supporters have been saying all along. He has a presence about him by way of his up beat personality, features, style, even how he moves-his swag-as popular culture coins it, that commands attention. He uses this ability on stage causing the watchful eyes of the frenzied audience to fixate on his every move. Electrifying, energizing and simply entertaining is what Unique’s stage presence screams. Unique draws his inspiration from a variety of known talents. Names such as Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder to Usher, Beyonce, Brandy and Kanye West come to mind but for Unique his respect comes not just from them being megastars but also from a common thread that he shares with them all. And for that matter, any artistic and uniquely talented person, famous or not. They set the pace, raise the bar high for others to reach for and alter popular culture to make it all their own. This is the artist that Unique strives to be in every aspect of his career. He understands that being a successful singer in the ever changing world of entertainment does not stop at the music-you are a BRAND, an influencer, and possibly a world changer. Musically he is a massive pain in any lackluster crooner’s career but Unique offers way more than just another singer trying to top the Billboard charts. He sees his musical career as an avenue to affect positive change in a troubled world as well. Not a tax right off but a heartfelt concern that spiraled into a non-profit program called The Unique Movement-in Action! that promotes self, community and society preservation by voicing an undeniable truth. “You are ONE person that can do so much”. An artist like this makes it all worthwhile because it can only get better…more impacting…more impressive…more mind blowing. From Brooklyn to the world is the only ride that Unique will take. His career or matter of fact his destiny requires nothing less than such a feat. The end to this story is really the beginning for Unique. The skies the limit they say but what can be said for the universe? Unique is aiming that high.