Ultra Naté is a trailblazing American singer, songwriter, record producer, DJ, and promoter who has achieved global success while continually reinventing herself. Her sound spans across genres, from R&B, soul, and disco to house, rock, and electro-pop, making her a true musical chameleon.
Ultra Naté’s journey into the music industry is as unexpected as it is inspiring. While in college, Naté was captivated by the vibrant nightlife and club culture of the ’80s and ’90s, where the dance floor became a place of freedom and unity. It was in this scene that The Basement Boys, a Maryland-based production team, spotted her potential. With encouragement from producer Thommy Davis, Naté dabbled in singing and songwriting, initially just for fun. But that casual experiment quickly led to her signing a record deal with Warner Brothers UK.
Despite being new to the industry and having never traveled to the UK, Naté was immediately struck by the broad appeal of house music overseas. She was inspired by artists like Adeva, who brilliantly blended R&B and house and soon found her own voice. In 1991, she released her debut album “Blue Notes in the Basement,” a collaboration with The Basement Boys that helped bridge the gap between house and R&B.
However, Ultra Naté’s big breakthrough came in 1997 with the release of “Free,” a global anthem of self-love and liberation that resonated deeply with dance floors around the world. “Free” remains a timeless classic, a fixture in DJ sets, and a staple of the LGBTQ+ dance music scene. Naté’s connection to the community goes far beyond providing dance floor anthems. She has been a dedicated ally throughout her career, using her platform to promote love, acceptance, and unity. For her, supporting the LGBTQ+ community is “second nature,” and her unwavering commitment to these causes has endeared her to a global audience. More than just a musician, Ultra Naté is a cultural icon whose work transcends music, embodying a spirit of inclusivity and social change.
In 2021, Naté revisited “Free” by releasing a remix package, giving the song new life for a modern audience. The project was deeply cathartic for her, reflecting resilience and capturing the spirit of a challenging time. Even after more than three decades in the industry, she continues to evolve and inspire, proving that passion and freedom can lead to extraordinary success.
Ultra Naté’s impact on dance music and her advocacy for social change will be further celebrated at the upcoming Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), where she will be honored with a prestigious Level Award at the Nexus Lounge. The Level Awards, presented by Nexus, recognize artists and visionaries who have made a profound and lasting impact on the music industry. Receiving this accolade not only acknowledges Naté’s incredible musical achievements but also her commitment to making the world a more inclusive and inspiring place through her art.
Over thirty years since she first burst onto the international scene with club anthems, Ultra Naté remains a powerful force in the industry. She has proven that longevity in dance music—an often fleeting genre—is not only possible but achievable for those who are willing to adapt, work hard, and stay true to themselves.
