Mayer Hawthorne is an American singer, songwriter and producer from Ann Arbor, Michigan. His music style combines classic soul, funk, and R&B with a modern sound, creating a unique throwback experience that has drawn popularity both in the United States and internationally. He initially released music under the independent label Stones Throw Record, and eventually released two studio albums with Universal Republic Records. Later, he started his own label, Hawthorne Avenue Records, and his most recent album, A Strange Arrangement, came out in 2009. Over his career, Hawthorne has received five Grammy award nominations, as well as international recognition for his unique and fresh take on classic genres.