Raphael Brown is truly the total package: a singer who emotes from his heart, a songwriter who bears his soul and a producer who taps into his vast reservoir of talent to create the kind of music that stands the test of time.On his new cd Raphael unveils layer after layer of emotions and, through his lyrics, offers us an unobstructed view of love and relationships. “My goal on this album is to bring the love back,” says the Columbus, Georgia native who now resides in Atlanta. “That’s what’s missing in music.” But there’s nothing missing from Raphael Brown’s cd, which kicks off with the engaging lead single “Clap Your Hands", a song that, like others on the set, displays the unique musical texture and melodic flow that characterize a Raphael Brown song. Like many great artists, Raphael’s musical foundation began in the church, where he first witnessed the true impact of music and its message. He was a mere ten years old when he discovered the creative stylings of singers like Donny Hathaway and Stevie Wonder and soaked up their inspiration like a sponge. “I started singing at barbecues and family reunions," Raphael recalls. "I joined a band when I was twelve, but we ran into some differences." So the self-described "complex and colorful" Raphael eventually went off on his own, working with various bands as he continued to hone his writing and productions skills. It was not long before he caught the eye of young, up-and-coming artist Bobby Brown. "Bobby and I were friends," says Raphael, "but during this time, I was able to be an observer and learn a lot. I spent time hanging out, but I also learned the music business first-hand and perfected my craft." Raphael’s reputation began to grow in the Georgia music community where he was known for "lacing tracks with lyrics and melody,” thus earning him the nickname 'The Brown Lacer.' Raphael’s breakout hit, the multi-platinum Dru Hill single "Sleeping In My Bed," is just one example of ‘The Brown Lacer’s’ handiwork. He has also produced for artists like Mya and Sam Salter. His song “I Can’t Help It” (Shya) was featured on the soundtrack to the underground hit movie, "Have Plenty." Says Raphael, “I am the worst music critic so I set high standards for all the songs I do whether they’re for me or for another artist. I think a song should remind others of a place and a time and have more substance to it than just being radio-friendly." This time around, Raphael is the one benefiting from his own handiwork and high standards. "I want to always be involved in music,” he says. “My ultimate goal is to incorporate all aspects of this business into my career: writing, producing, music publishing and, of course, singing. But for now, I'm taking one step at a time. My motto is ‘Stay in God's turn’."