Lemar

This underrated UK vocalist proves two things: an artist from a reality TV competition can survive and prosper, and that R&B doesn’t need a big name producer to drop a hot beat. A runner-up in 2002’s Fame Academy (a BBC talent show), Lemar Obika has gone on to a bright career on the UK urban charts, but has yet to break into America’s influential market. This first single from his new album, The Truth About Love, evokes Motown’s golden era, with sincerity, composure and a simple sophisticated beat that would make Marvin Gaye proud. (www.lemar-online.com)