Being christened the "new voice of ghetto soul" is a tough order to fill, but R&B singer/songwriter Avant makes it seem easy. The Cleveland native was the first musician signed to NBA legend Magic Johnson's Magic Johnson Music and released his MCA Records-released debut album, My Thoughts, in March 2000. The release of My Thoughts coincided with the soaring of the single "Separated" to the top of the charts.Avant's brand of modern soul is largely reminiscent of R&B heavy weight R. Kelly and as a result "Separated" began to get immediate airplay on hit radio station WGCI in Chicago after Avant's manager Eric Payton released the single on his Payton Entertainment label in January 1998. "Separated" was eventually included on the MCA compilation Summer Heat in 1999 and soon the music video appeared to be playing on repeat on cable channels The Box and BET. The song chronicles a failed relationship in Avant's past and apparently struck a chord with fans. My Thoughts was recorded in Chicago and produced by talented instrumentalist Steve "Stone" Huff; one highlight of the album is the cover of the R&B classic "My First Love," originally recorded by Rene & Angela. My Thoughts also features the hit song "Reaction," featuring a rhythm guitar sample from Issac Hayes' 1974 classic "Wonderful."In 2002 Avant showcased another collaboration with producer Steve Huff, Ecstasy, which was also released on Johnson's imprint label. Ecstasy spawned singles "Makin' Good Love" and "Don't Say No, Just Say Yes," which both appeared on the Billboard charts. Avant kept the R&B hits coming with 2003's Private Room and 2006's Director. His fourth effort Director featured collaborations with Jermaine Dupri and the Underdogs as well as guest rappers Lil Wayne and Lloyd Banks. Director peaked at number one on Billboard's Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums, proving that he remains a front-runner of "ghetto soul." He is currently recording an album set for release in 2008 under new label Capitol.