Artist

Robert Owens

Before house music became a global phenomenon, Robert Owens was helping to forge its DNA in Chicago. Growing up singing in church choirs, Owens brought a deep gospel and soul sensibility to the underground club scene. His musical journey shifted into high gear in 1985 when he teamed up with pioneering producers Larry Heard and Ron Wilson to form Fingers Inc. Together, they released seminal tracks like "Mystery of Love" and "Can You Feel It," permanently defining the "deep house" genre. In 1989, Owens lent his hauntingly beautiful vocals to "Tears," a monumental collaboration with Frankie Knuckles and Satoshi Tomiie that remains a blueprint for vocal house today. His solo career further solidified his status, highlighted by the 1990 R&B-infused club hit "I'll Be Your Friend." Unlike many vocalists of his era whose voices were sampled and left behind, Owens successfully evolved into a celebrated global DJ and producer. Relocating to Europe in the 1990s, he continuously bridged the gap between old-school house and contemporary electronic subgenres. He has collaborated across eras and styles, working with drum and bass icon Photek, tech-house mainstays, and modern underground producers. Today, Robert Owens continues to captivate dancefloors worldwide, bringing his signature spiritual warmth, message of love, and timeless energy to every performance.