It’s Pronounced Toe-Nay

In 1997, the buzz surrounding a young hip-hop artist that called himself Tonex reached a dramatic climax when the soulful musician released his breakout album Pronounced Toe-Nay. Released on a small independent label that had little money to market the relatively unknown artist, the album’s success came by word of mouth praise and critical acclaim. The album’s eclectic mix of hip-hop style, carefully crafted beats and gospel flavor paved the way for Tonex’s road to gospel music superstardom.

Despite the lack of serious funding for the album, major labels saw the potential. Tonex signed with the hip-hop powerhouse Jive/Verity Records to record a follow-up to the popular debut. His 2002 release, 02, took the young artist’s reputation to a new level with several hit singles and more critical success that grabbed the attention of the world of gospel music.

02 became a crossover smash with three songs that went to number one on the gospel music charts. But it wasn’t just fans of gospel music who were listening. The music of Tonex is a fusion of several genres that pulls elements of jazz and soul into hip-hop-fuel gospel anthems.

2004’s Out of Box became another major hit that once again propelled Tonex into the national spotlight. The singer was featured magazines like Essence, Entertainment Weekly and even the USA Today newspaper. Tonex also become a television favorite with a wide range of appearances on networks from TBN to BET. Tonex has also added producer to his resume, most notably for his award winning work with artists like Virtuosity and Souljaz.

Though he has had an overwhelming successful career, Tonex still knows where his priorities are. Despite his superstar status, Tonex remains the pastor of the Truth Apostolic Community Church, a job passed on to him by his late father. It is a job that he says is just as important as being a singer, producer and rising star of the urban music world.

By Jesse Carey