Encore Artist Development

Singer, Songwriter, Entrepreneur. These are just some of the words that can be used to describe Chinua Hawk. Born and raised in New Jersey, Chinua considers himself a citizen of the world. “My music is for everyone,” explains Chinua. “I listen to everything… so it comes through in my writing.” From a very young age, Chinua knew that he was destined to be a singer. Singing at the Friendship Baptist Church in Trenton, New Jersey taught this humble young man how to connect the spirit with the music. As a performer with hundreds of performances under his belt, Chinua captivates audiences all over the world with the simplicity and class that defines his career. “My show is very simple -- what you see is what you get,” says Chinua. “If you come to my show to see me, then I know you came to hear some real singing and have a good time. I’m not a dancer; I’m a storyteller and a dreamer. I share these things with you onstage. It’s just that simple.” Along with his extensive touring record, Chinua also boasts CD sales not only in the US, but also in France, England, Japan, Switzerland, and Canada. Not bad for an unsigned act. Chinua counts himself very fortunate to have performed with Celine Dion in front of a crowd of 30,000 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. He’s also written songs with Wyclef Jean and worked in the studio with producer/rapper Kanye West on rapper Talib Kwelis’ song “Just To Get By.” Chinua Hawk won the 2003 Heineken Music Initiative/ASCAP Foundation R&B Songwriter’s Grant along with his partner Kwame Viapree for their song "I Remember You" featured on his CD Sunflower. Chinua’s other accomplishments include winning the Disc Makers Independent Music World Series in 2004, beating out over 1,000 bands with just a guitar player to accompany him. He was also named the APCA Multi-Cultural Artist of the year in 2004 and 2006. Millions heard Chinua’s song “Can’t Move On” from his debut independent release The Beautiful Things when it aired on the CBS drama Joan of Arcadia.