Official Biography (courtesy of the Room Service Group)
Avant, a Cleveland, Ohio native who still lives in his hometown, learned how to appreciate and admire the strength and resilience of women who are mothers, sisters and lovers from the most important woman in his life, his mother. "One of the most valuable things my mother taught me is that you can love someone and not expect anything back." As the youngest son in a family of six, he watched his mom sacrifice mightily to provide the best for her children. Money might have been tight, but her affection never faltered. She encouraged Avant to develop his musical gifts and played classic R&B artists like Smokey Robinson, The Supremes and Marvin Gaye who later influenced his creative direction.
His big break came in 1998 when Avant made his professional debut with the independent release of his first single "Separated". Radio embraced the song and the resulting buzz helped the singer land a deal at the now defunct label, Magic Johnson Music. His debut album, My Thoughts, sold over a million copies and garnered the singer legions of devoted fans. His subsequent releases Ecstasy, Private Room & Director were also well received, earning gold and platinum status.
