U-Nam: The French Pioneer of Modern Funk & Smooth Jazz

U-Nam is a French guitarist, producer, and composer celebrated for revitalizing the funk and smooth jazz genres with a contemporary, polished sound. Hailing from Paris, he achieved international recognition with his 2007 album "Back From The 80s," which soared to number one on the American Billboard Smooth Jazz chart.

Early career

Born Emmanuel Abiteboul in 1969, U-Nam began his professional journey in the 1990s as a session guitarist in France. His early career involved extensive work in studios and on tour with various French pop and R&B acts, honing his production skills and versatile playing style long before his solo debut.

Breakthrough

The pivotal moment arrived in 2007 with the release of his second solo album, "Back From The 80s," on his own label, Skytown Records. The album's lead single, a funky reimagining of the 1985 Stacy Lattisaw hit "Attack of the Name Game," became an instant smash on jazz and soul radio globally, propelling the album to the top of the Billboard Smooth Jazz chart.

Key tracks

Attack of the Name Game — This explosive cover became his signature hit, defining his punchy, retro-funk sound and introducing him to a worldwide audience.

Street Life — A standout track from "Back From The 80s" showcasing his impeccable guitar tone and sophisticated arrangements that pay homage to jazz-funk legends.

Shining Star — Featuring legendary bassist Freddie Washington, this track from the 2009 album "Unanimity" exemplifies his high-caliber collaborations and tight, groove-centric production.

If You Really Want Something — This 2015 single, featuring singer Sharon Bryant, highlights his skill in blending smooth jazz instrumentation with accessible, soulful vocals.

Building on this success, U-Nam established himself as a prolific force, releasing albums like "Weekend In L.A." and "Surface Level" which further cemented his reputation for crisp, energetic funk. He has collaborated with an impressive roster of musicians including George Benson, Wah Wah Watson, and Paul Jackson Jr., bridging the gap between classic and contemporary jazz-funk.

His work as a producer and remixer for other artists, alongside running Skytown Records, underscores his deep involvement in the music industry's creative and business sides. U-Nam continues to release new music and perform internationally, consistently delivering the high-energy, melodic guitar work that defines his catalog.

Fans of U-Nam's vibrant blend of guitar-driven funk and jazz often appreciate the work of similar French instrumentalists. Paul Hardcastle shares a knack for crafting smooth, synth-infused jazz soundscapes. Jonathan Butler offers a similar blend of soulful guitar melodies and uplifting rhythms. Nick Colionne matches U-Nam's stylish, contemporary approach to the jazz guitar genre. Michael Lington delivers comparable smooth saxophone melodies over polished, funky backdrops.

RADIO ROTATION: U-Nam's dynamic catalog is a staple on various radio formats featured on this website. His tracks receive regular airplay on smooth jazz networks, online soul music streams, and dedicated funk radio stations, where his modern yet timeless sound consistently engages listeners.

You can experience the energetic funk and smooth jazz of U-Nam on radio stations featured here. Explore and listen to his music through the variety of radio stations available on onairium.com.