MUSIC Hooks: He's a new soul man

Ellis Hooks has had some success in Europe.
By NICK CRISTIANO
KNIGHT RIDDER NEWSPAPERS
After nearly a decade of hand-to-mouth existence in New York City, Ellis Hooks was on the verge of giving up his dream of a music career and returning to the South. Then the scuffling street musician had a chance encounter with producer Jon Tiven, who was blown away by his talent, and everything changed.
That was in June 2000. Since then, Hooks has released three albums, including the latest and best, "Uncomplicated" (Artemis), and the world is getting introduced to a killer presence: a 30-year-old soul man who channels the grit and power of Otis Redding and Wilson Pickett with his own gospel-fired intensity and rock 'n' roll energy. He co-writes all of his own material, to boot.
Likes the old styles
Rap and modern R & amp;B "don't touch my soul," Hooks said from his Manhattan apartment, explaining his affinity for the old styles. He grew up in rural Alabama, one of 16 children of a black father and a gospel-loving Cherokee mother, sang in the choir of his Baptist church, and listened to "pretty much everything."
There was a lot of gospel, of course, especially Sam Cooke and the Soul Stirrers, but also classic soul and rock and even country, an influence that can be heard on "It's Gonna Take Some Time," the gentle ballad that leads off "Uncomplicated" and signals that Hooks is more than just a wickedly good fire-breather.
Hooks' first two albums, "Undeniable" and the more blues-oriented "Up Your Mind," have caused a stir in Europe. He is just now setting out to conquer the States -- playing solo, with his acoustic guitar, just as he used to do in Washington Square Park and other Big Apple spots.
"The streets schooled me, they molded me," Hooks said. "I learned how to use my voice, to project it; it strengthened my lungs. ... But I don't ever want to do it again."