UN1ON (pronounced union) n: the result of bringing or joining together people or things for a common purpose This simple title that we decided to use to coin the collaborative effort of two solo artists has blossomed into a vision far beyond what we first anticipated. The inception of UN1ON came after a year of writing and touring together. We thought the name was very fitting of us in so many different ways. We both come from different backgrounds, have many different personality traits, and are very different as people. But while it is easy to see our individuality, what shines through most is the "1" reason that we joined together; and that is the life saving message of Jesus Christ. As we searched beyond the surface meaning of our slogan "two emcees 1 plan" we realized that God gave us more than just a name for our group He gave us a mission. That mission runs deeper than just a black guy and a white guy coming together to make hip-hop music. Our true mission is to see unity in the entire body of Christ. We want to see the body of Christ take the focus off of religion, denominations, money, musical genres/talent, race, age, political views, etc., and place our total focus on Christ alone. Early morning October 11, 2002, during an all night telephone conversation about the music industry and the power of God, we made the decision to officially "sign" to God. Not to count out the possibility of God blessing us in the music industry, but more so to make known our reliance on Christ rather than the things the music industry has to offer. The concept may sound a bit corny, but it was a real turning point for us. With this better-defined focus, we immediately saw doors fly open that we could never open ourselves. Just for example, the first year (2001) we were together we did a total of 12 shows. The next year (2002) after "signing" with God, we did over 65, and the momentum has grown exponentially since then as we now average over 100 shows per year. In 2003 we recorded and released "Blast Off," our first song ever as UN1ON. "Blast Off" shot to be one of the top 5 Christian hip-hop/rap songs at mp3.com in the very first week. Also in the fall of 2003 we were able to go out on our first official tour hitting 29 cities in 31 days from North Carolina to Nebraska, all without a record deal, booking agent, or even a UN1ON CD. But we recognize that these accomplishments didn't come from our hard work, effort, or our own talent. None of these things could have been done without the touch of Gods hand. This year we expect to see an even greater growth with the release of our first CD entitled Extended Play (April 2004). This CD hosts 5 original songs all written by UN1ON. The energetic sound of our first single "Love Music" is like nothing else in hip-hop/rap music today. We decided to introduce our new record to the world with this song because it really exemplifies what UN1ON is really adamant about, and that is showing the world Gods love. Because sometimes as Christians, we try so hard to get the world to love our God. But in reality, our mission is to show this world how much our God loves them. This upbeat dance song along with "Blast Off" and "Feel Free" are what many have come to expect from us over the years of touring. But we wanted to share with people a more personal side of us with the two slower solo songs "Chasing A Dream" and "Fall In Love." "Chasing A Dream" speaks candidly about dealing with mistakes, being judged by others, and the struggle of feeling completely alone. Those times in life where there is nobody on your side, and the only one there is to rely on is God. "Fall In Love" was inspired form personal experience, and from speaking to many others about their experience with relationships. While searching to be accepted and loved, we find ourselves falling in love with a lot of different things, but it comes to the conclusion that true love can only come from falling in love with God. We feel that these songs really give a depth to who we are personally. There is a lot of Christian music out there that is very happy and positive (which we do some of too because knowing Jesus defiantly offers true joy), but we also would like to show people that the Christian walk isn't easy all the time. There are many times were we feel all alone, un-accepted, and afraid. But through it all we can know that there is light at the end of the tunnel. As "Extended Play" begins showing up in stores, and getting attention at radio, we will continue to tour as much as possible. We will have the opportunity to share the stage with such artists as Audio Adrenaline, Kutless, Superchick, Everyday Sunday as well as many others. From touring and radio, will be able to present our music first hand to thousands of people across the country this year. It is exciting to think about the sales potential of this record, but our focus isn't on record sales, fame, or fortune. We still have the same goal as we did when we fist decided to form UN1ON, the same goal that brought us to this point, and the same goal that will take us even further, and that is to promote the life saving message of Jesus Christ.