Howard Hewett Jr. is a celebrated American singer-songwriter known for his powerful tenor and emotional delivery, first rising to fame as the lead vocalist of the iconic R&B group Shalamar and later launching a successful solo career. With a rich musical background rooted in gospel, his enduring contributions to the genre continue to resonate with fans around the world.
Howard Hewett Jr., born on October 1, 1955, in Akron, Ohio, is an eminent American singer-songwriter. He gained widespread recognition as the lead vocalist for the R&B group Shalamar, which paved the way for his prosperous solo career.
Hewett's upbringing in a musically inclined family, with his mother Charlena Hewett-Brown being a notable gospel promoter, was integral to his early musical development. Beginning at a young age, he led his sisters in their group, The Hewett Singers, performing gospel music widely. During his teenage years, he joined a funk band named Lyfe.
At 21 years, Howard moved to Los Angeles, marking the beginning of his professional music career. Soon after, in 1976, he formed the show group Beverly Hills, which toured across Europe, the UK, Scandinavia, and Asia.
Hewett's journey with Shalamar began in late 1978 when he replaced original lead singer Gerald Brown. Comprised of members Jeffrey Daniel and Jody Watley alongside Hewett, the group achieved remarkable success in the late 70s and early 80s. Some of their iconic hits include:- "The Second Time Around"- "Make That Move"- "A Night to Remember"- "Dancing in the Sheets"- "This Is for the Lover in You"
Hewett's gospel-trained tenor was pivotal to Shalamar's mainstream success. The group contributed to film soundtracks such as "Footloose" and "Beverly Hills Cop," the latter earning a Grammy Award for Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media in 1986.
In 1985, Hewett departed from Shalamar to venture into a solo career. Signing with Elektra Records, he released his debut solo album "I Commit to Love" in 1986. It featured hits like:- "I'm for Real" - "Stay"
Following the success of his debut, he released several other albums, including:- "Forever and Ever" (1988)- "Howard Hewett" (1990)- "Allegiance" (1992)- "It's Time" (1994)- "The Journey" (2001)- "If Only" (2007)- "Howard Hewett Christmas" (2008)
His 1990 self-titled album included the notable hit "Show Me."
Facing legal challenges in the 1980s, Hewett was acquitted of all charges after a four-day trial. Despite these hurdles, he continued his musical journey, solidifying his place in the industry.
Howard Hewett is celebrated as one of the most talented vocalists in the post-Marvin Gaye pop R&B era. He remains active in the music scene, releasing singles like "You Still Live Inside of Me" (2014) and "A Love of My Own" (2017). Hewett's return to Shalamar in 2001 marked a nostalgic reprise with the group.
Hewett's music reflects a blend of R&B, soul, and gospel, showcasing his powerful tenor and emotional delivery. His influence and contribution to music continue to resonate with fans globally.
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