For the next edition of our R&B artist top 10 feature, we look back at the career of Avant.
Avant, whose birth name is Myron Lavell Avant, is an R&B singer-songwriter from Cleveland, Ohio. He began his music career in the late 1990s and has since become known for his “slow jam” style, often writing songs based on real-life observations and experiences.
His career began with the regional hit “I Wanna Know” in 1998, which led to a deal with Magic Johnson Music/MCA. His debut album, *My Thoughts* (2000), featured the platinum-certified single “Separated” and the hit duet “My First Love” with Keke Wyatt. Over the past few decades, Avant has undoubtedly been one of the most prolific hitmakers in R&B music over the past two decades. He’s made a name for himself through his many hit singles and his albums are always a solid brand of R&B.
Throughout his career, Avant has been noted for his consistency and for staying true to his “soul-rooted contemporary R&B” sound. He has toured with other prominent R&B artists, including Joe, Jagged Edge, and Keith Sweat.
As part of our Top 10 Best Songs series, we attempt to identify the best songs an artist has released over their career, from the singles to the album cuts. Without further ado, here is our Avant list:
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Separated (From the “My Thoughts” album)
The debut single from Avant where it all started. The song was already a hit locally in Chicago before he even signed!
My First Love (featuring Keke Wyatt) (From the “My Thoughts” album)
This stunning and beautiful ballad cover song introduced the world to the powerhouse vocalist Keke Wyatt and quickly gave Avant a second hit single.
Makin’ Good Love (from the “Ecstasy” album)
The singer came back strong with the lead single from his sophomore album. “Makin Good Love” is a tailor made bedroom jam.
Read Your Mind (from the “Private Room” album)
Avant followed a similar successful formula on this one to score another hit single.
Everything About You (from the “Private Room” album)
Quite possibly our favorite album cut from Avant. This beautiful ballad is one of his best love songs.
Can’t Wait (from the “Shark Tale” Soundtrack)
“Can’t Wait” is a gem that was tucked away on the Shark Tale soundtrack. Production team The Underdogs really helped Avant craft a timeless song here.
4 Minutes (from the “Director” album)
Avant has never been afraid to show his vulnerable side and “4 Minutes” is a great example of that. Sonically this is also one of his best.
When It Hurts (from the “Avant” album)
We’ve always appreciated Avant as a songwriter. Songs like “When It Hurts” show how he can take a timeless love story and put it in his own unique words.
Kiss Goodbye (from the “The Letter” album)
This progressive R&B song was a great evolution to the sound Avant introduced us to a decade earlier.
You & I (featuring Keke Wyatt) (from the “Face the Music” album)
Fans had been waiting for these two to collaborate once again, and they came through in a big way on this hit single.
Honorable Mention:
“Get Away” (from the “My Thoughts” album)
“Heaven” (from the “Private Room” album)
“Don’t Take Your Love Away” (from the “Private Room” album)
“You Know What” (featuring Lil’ Wayne) (from the “Director” album)
“Right Place, Wrong Time” (from the “Director” album)
“Sensuality” (from the “Avant” album)
“Graduated” (from the “The Letter” album)
“Gratitude” (from the “Face the Music” album)
“Special” (from the “The VIII” album)
“Can We Fall In Love” (from the “Can We Fall In Love” album)