Kevin D. Carignan 
Adam Ness (Photo courtesy of Theodolph Mason)
Detroit native Adam Ness is a regular at Tribe, a Chicago supper club. This writer visited Tribe recently and as I entered the space I could hear, Ness’ voice cut through the background chatter and lit it up with an angelic quality. The riffs and melodies he is able to create with his voice are fascinating. Ness adds his progressive blend of R&B, soul, funk rock and jazz to the Chicago music scene. His unique approach to singing has landed him opening acts for Lalah Hathaway and Raphael Saadiq, as well as features on rapper Noname’s latest project. Room 25. Deployment spoke with Ness about his style, what sets him apart and his most recent project, Sagittarius, Vol. 2.
What are you trying to accomplish with your music?
Telling stories, creating great music and connecting with the ears and hearts of listeners.
What makes you different as an artist?
Push the limits. Musically, I love experimenting with mixing and fusing different styles – some supporters have dubbed me “the master of music”. I like to challenge stereotypes. I want to inspire others to be free to be themselves without fear.
Describe your style of music.
My music is a combination of lush harmonies, musical grooves and lyrical depth.
Talk about your most recent project.
Sagittarius, Vol. 2 is my most recent album project. It has been in the making for several years. Sagittarius, which is my zodiac sign, is a fire sign. I wanted to give listeners a first-hand look at our wild, fiery, frank and sensual nature. I’ve worked with amazing people in creation. The album has special guests Eryn Allen Kane and Durand Bernarr. I’m most proud of the dip I made into production with this album, thanks in large part to the pandemic and not being able to enter traditional studios with my band. I produced and wrote five of the 12 songs.
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