I feel a little guilty because I have met this man numerous times…at my own shows. He was always came off really supportive, charismatic and confident…but I never made it out to a show…well I’m the idiot that’s been missing out on someone who’s quickly becoming a favorite of mine.

Mike “Ultralove” Wagner is all soul. He carries is tall stature with the swagger of a man who’s just laid out the winning cards at a high stakes table. With a background in theatre his delivery adds another dimension to his poetry. In that, you’re not just listening to music, you’re having an experience in the world he’s created. He is more than a target for women’s under-garments, he uses his music as a platform for his stance on politics and changing the world for the better. With a voice like his, I believe he could achieve some of that change…he’s pretty hard to ignore.

You’d have to be dummy to not hear that he’s heavily influenced by the likes of Prince, James Brown, Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder. He blends hip-hop and neo-soul with the poetry of a troubadour. No one is doing what he’s doing and that refreshing. His phrasing is impeccable and he doesn’t over use his vocal capabilities. Sometimes an R&B singer can get to my last nerve when the melody is lost in showy riffs.

Ultralove is an appropriate alias because his intention is to motivate everyone to use their love of what their passionate about to create a better world. These days, art is so secondary and we wonder why kids can’t unplug and people are on a constant search for fulfillment. He uses music to dictate that and it comes from genuine, authentic place.

So on this Valentine’s Day give yourself the gift of Ultralove. Next Monday (the day before V-day) he is ready to love you up with his golden voice at Harvelle’s in Santa Monica. If you’re single, those are your plans…it will help you not feel sorry for yourself. If you’re a couple, it’s the perfect aphrodisiac for your bedroom after party (wink wink). You can thank me later.