STEPHAUN ANU

 

                      B E G I N N I N G

 

Stephen NaShaun Pender is a masterpiece.  Collectively, he is a creative thinker, leader and visionary.  His first and middle name combine to make Stephaun.  "Anu"  is derived from an appreciation of art, history and an affinity for the great blue ocean above us.  It meant "Sky God" to the ancient sumerians of mesopotamia; a civilization that existed circa 3100 BC.   An Artist in every sense of the word from Queens NY,  he is Progressive in the way that his  creations transcend genres. His music is retro yet surreal.  It also has a social contract; a connective tissue to humanity.  By capturing the human experience yet striving for what could be, Stephaun’s powerful sentiment on his devotion to his craft crosses barriers of talent making his concepts multidimensional.

 

As a member of The Breakneck Quartet; a unique collaboration of musicians that came together at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), Stephaun Anu helped establish a group who earned their title as "the livest hip-hop band" in the southeast. He composed a bluesy/jazz fusion sound, in which he performed alongside his band members; opening for acts such as Toni Braxton, Trey Songz, and Three Doors Down,   Since Breakneck parted ways, Anu has shifted his focus to production for other genres such as rock and pop. He has also created compositions for companies such as Heineken, NETFLIX, The NEW YORK TIMES and has evolved in the mediums of television, film, and video games.

 

After spending years honing his craft and collaborating with a number of  musicians, the solo debut album, Emotional Dyslexia was released on January 11, 2011. This body of work is comprised of instrumentals, beats, and soundscapes that convey emotions, moods, and ambiance, ultimately creating a narrative for the listener to interpret. These musical soundscapes reflect his vivid imagination, an imagination inspired by the likes of Chopin, Thelonious Monk, Bill Evans, Sade, Dr. Dre, Pete Rock, DJ Premiere, and Timbaland.  His latest offering with Yancy Wilkinson, Amoment, shows a more lyrical side of Stephaun Anu while his musical accompaniment creates a cohesive and concise body of work that is impactful and resonating. The 8-track album, which features plenty of hidden songs; moreover, 'the moments between' can be described as 'elliptical and lucid music for the soul.' It is infused with enough energy and heart to leave a lasting impression of what could take place in a single moment in time.”

 

With a desire to live a life of fulfillment, peace and harmony, Stephen NaShaun Pender is making every step count in order to turn his dreams into reality.  He is a passionate artist who is inspiring.  A visionary that creates an experience by telling a story.  His music lives in the moment and the moment is timeless.