Seven

Biography

Seven is a contemporary R&B singer/songwriter from Switzerland whose albums regularly chart within the Top Ten, if not the Top Five, in his homeland. Born Jan Dettwyler on October 18, 1978, in Wohlen, Aargau, he made his album debut with Dedicated to... (2002) on the label Nation. Though the album didn't sell particularly well, it was novel to encounter a contemporary R&B singer/songwriter native to Switzerland with a modern English-language style and American influences. The novelty proved more successful with the release of his second album, Sevensoul (2004), which spawned the breakout hit "Synthetic Soul." The single reached the Top 30 of the Swiss charts while the album reached the Top 40. In the wake of this breakout success, his third album Lovejam (2005) debuted in the Top Ten of the Swiss albums chart. The supporting tour included Seven's debut concert in London. The follow-up album, Home (2007), was a superstar affair. It featured collaborations with American R&B artists Sheila E, Eric Leeds, Tamar Davis, and Conya Doss. The album also featured a few collaborations with American R&B producer/songwriters Keith Crouch and Rahsaan Patterson. Home reached the Top Five of the albums chart and spawned the singles "Wake Up" and "Golden Stairs." Like a Rocket (2009) was another superstar affair, this time featuring American rappers Talib Kweli and AMG in addition to British contemporary R&B singer Beverley Knight and Philly soul legend Larry Gold. The album reached number two on the charts and spawned the hit single "Lisa." ~ Jason Birchmeier, All Music Guide