Award-nominated singer-songwriter Denarris has opened the hearts and souls of music lovers with his beautiful melodies and intimate, heartfelt lyrics.

Growing up at the crossroads of East and West Coast sensibilities, jazz/neo-soul composer-performer Denarris was exposed to many different styles of music. He credits such artistic giants as Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder with shaping his eclectic style. Other influences include masters from across the musical spectrum: Henry Mancini, Spyro Gyra, Earth, Wind and Fire, Tower of Power, Chicago and The Who.

Denarris’ parents grounded him spiritually and supported him musically from his early elementary school band years through his “hard rock/disturbing-the-peace” phase. In school, Denarris played the alto, tenor and baritone sax and branched into the woodwinds and percussion. Throughout his high school years, he dedicated himself to concert and solo instrument competitions.

A major turning point came late in high school: Denarris received his first piano as a gift from his much-loved aunt. The piano became his muse, beckoning him to bring to life all the melodies constantly surging in the young musician’s mind.

It was Denarris’ original music that caught the ear of Natalie Cole and shortly after he moved to Los Angeles. Prior to releasing his solo CD, “Songs From The Heart - Part 1,” Denarris collaborated with The Gap Band and worked with Al McKay of Earth, Wind and Fire. Their single “Wet Jam,” penned and arranged by Denarris, was released throughout Europe. He also worked with Hazel Paine of the group “A Taste of Honey” on Capital Records.

“Songs From the Heart — Part 1” has taken the jazz and soul scene by storm, securing international airplay on a multitude of radio stations and surpassing such artists as Prince, Destiny’s Child and Outkast on various adult contemporary charts. Music from the enchanting CD was also featured in the independent film, “Art,” produced by Soleil Films. The CD earned Denarris a Best R&B Artist nomination from All Access Magazine and is winning strong acclaim from critics. All Access advises listeners to “grab a bottle of wine and someone special and prepare to take an enchanting ride,” while issuing a warning to a noted musical icon: “Look out, Lionel Richie!” Soul Express Magazine, meanwhile, urges music fans, “If you want the real deal, then check out Denarris. Do NOT overlook this CD.” Smoothjazz.com praises “Songs From the Heart—Part 1” as “a smooth, rhythmic excursion into melody and warmth,” while The Trinidad Guardian describes the collection as “steep in electric relaxation, utterly unpretentious and divine.”

Denarris describes “Songs From the Heart—Part 1” as “a profound invitation to take a chance and trust in the knowledge that Love is the ultimate purpose.” A mesmerizing journey through the winding ways of the heart, it lays down an easy groove that combines several styles into one beguiling whole.

Denarris continues to explore his evolving rhythmic and melodic revelations, and is currently working on an as-yet untitled upbeat CD whose first single will be a jazz instrumental number called “Scatman.” This will be followed by the much-anticipated “Songs From the Heart — Part 2.”

Denarris draws inspiration from his deeply spiritual core, giving all praise to Christ for the gift and opportunity of this musical life.