Nelly's Echo

Nelly's Echo operates as an adult alternative pop/rock outfit under the leadership of guitarist and vocalist Nelson Emokpae, with past members including percussionist Daniel Booker, keyboardist Tony Correlli, guitarist Marcin Otrebski, drummer Barry Sherard, and bassist Tyler Sherard. Rooted in Baltimore, Maryland, the group draws inspiration from soul music along with modern singer/songwriters such as Jason Mraz, even as Emokpae himself originates from Lagos, Nigeria. Its earliest recordings consisted of the EP Live Love 'N Laugh in 2007 and the album Secrets to a Happy Life in 2009. Emokpae, performing as Nelly's Echo, took part in the third season of NBC's The Voice in 2012, advancing as far as the top 64 with backing from judge Christina Aguilera before elimination. He maintained an active schedule of performances and studio work alongside the band, which issued the self-released album Journey in 2013.