Desi Valentine honed his talent through musical theater and backing work on his way to becoming a refined retro-soul stylist. Born and raised in London -- specifically the southeast district of Catford -- Valentine landed roles in West End productions of The Producers and Fame, and has since performed behind the likes of Gloria Estefan, Elton John, and Leona Lewis. He released his first album, Back to Me, in 2009, then found his creative footing following a move to Los Angeles. A self-titled album was issued in 2012 and marked a transition to material rooted in classic R&B, though the singer's familiarity with the era's foundational artists goes back to childhood. Valentine toured with kindred spirit Andra Day in 2016 and received an even more significant boost when his ballad "Fate Don't Know You" appeared in an episode of Suits. Another independent single, "My Worst Enemy," was issued in 2017 ahead of an EP planned for 2018. ~ Andy Kellman