Soul singer Raheem DeVaughn is finally back with a new album that's inspired equally by the gospel sounds of the church as the street funk of hip-hop. The DC native built a devoted following on the independent scene, touring and releasing mixtapes before being introduced to a wider audience in 2005 with the release of his debut disc The Love Experience, a success that spread quickly through genuine word-of-mouth and a slew of killer live dates.

DeVaughn creates the perfect hybrid of old school grooves and new school attitude, and nowhere is this more evident than on his new album, Love Behind the Melody. Already nominated for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance at this year's Grammy Awards for lead single "Woman" with its laidback groove and vocal charm, DeVaughn continues to let his soul shine on his second single, "Customer." "Mo Better," a heavy midnight ballad that invokes memories of driving through the deserted streets blaring the Brothers Johnson and the Floaters. On "Marathon," Raheem joins forces once again with friend and producer Kenny "Dope" Gonzalez, and the Scott Storch produced pop/funk of "Energy" features a stellar guest spot from rapper Big Boi (OutKast). If The Love Experience was the album that broke Raheem into the scene, Love Behind the Melody is the one that will launch him to stardom.