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Robert OwensAmerican vocalist, producer and DJ
Date of Birth: 17.08.1961
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Musical Beginnings
- Fingers, Inc. and Breakthrough
- Solo Career and Def Mix
- "I'll Be Your Friend" and Visions Club
- Musical Directions and Later Collaborations
- Legacy as "The Voice of House Music"
- Albums
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Robert Owens was born in Warren, Ohio, in 1961. Raised in both Chicago and Los Angeles, he developed his singing skills at a young age after attending church in Los Angeles. In Chicago, he began DJing and met Larry Heard in 1985, which sparked his involvement in the burgeoning house music scene.
Fingers, Inc. and Breakthrough
Together with Heard and Ron Wilson, Owens formed the house group Fingers, Inc. They released several hit singles, including "Can You Feel It" and "Bring Down the Walls," and toured extensively, becoming one of the first groups to bring house music to the UK. In 1988, they released their only full-length album, "Another Side."
Solo Career and Def Mix
Exhausted from constant touring and studio work, Owens left Fingers, Inc. in 1989 to pursue other projects. He relocated to New York City and signed with 4th & Broadway Records (a subsidiary of Island Records). He released hits such as "Changes" and "Visions," and his debut album, "Rhythms in Me," came out in 1990, produced by David Morales and Frankie Knuckles.
"I'll Be Your Friend" and Visions Club
Owens' career reached new heights with the release of "I'll Be Your Friend" in 1991, which topped dance charts worldwide. He established his own club, Visions, which resided opposite the renowned Sound Factory. In 1993, Owens moved to England, where he became an A&R representative for Freetown Inc and formed a live house band.
Musical Directions and Later Collaborations
In 1994, Owens launched his own label, Musical Directions, releasing his solo works. He released "The Statement" mini-album in 1994 and went on to release hits such as "Was I Here Before" and "Ordinary People" in 1996. In 1999, Owens collaborated with Satoshi Tomiie on the single "Full Lick," and in 2000, he recorded a series of tracks with Photek, including the chart-topping "Mine to Give."
Legacy as "The Voice of House Music"
Robert Owens' contributions to house music have earned him the title of "The Voice of House Music." His unique vocal style and heartfelt lyrics have left an indelible mark on the genre. He remains a respected and influential artist in the house music community.
Albums
Rhythms in Me (1990)Love Will Find Its Way: The Best Of (2002)
