Every so often a talent comes along that's undeniable, unapologetic, and honest. In today's music landscape these qualities seem to be forgot about or irrelevant. Singer/songwriter Richard ward formally know as '' BILLBOARD BEAR" is poised to shake up the R&B/ soul music world with his candid prospectives on life, love and all things in-between. His first album ''THE BEAR NECESSITIES'' garnered local and worldwide exposure with his soulful ballad “Do or Die” peaking at #2 on the r&b hot single sales chart in Billboard magazine right behind Beyonce's smash single “Deja vu” featuring Jay-Z. With His soulful lush vocal tone, and classic but unique songwriting style '' BILLBOARD BEAR" echo's the passion of Luther van dross, the timeless gospel undertones of sam cook Blending new school r&b, hip-hop, retro-funk, and pop vibes while staying true to his classic R&B/soul music roots. No stranger to hard work, Bear began his professional music career touring the world singing background vocals for grammy nominated hip-hop group "BLACKALICIOUS" sharing stages with superstars like Jay-Z, Alicia keys”, “Outkast” , “Eryka Badu” and “the Roots” to name a few. Trained as a jazz musician Bear voice has that rare uncanny quality to transcend words and connect the listener to raw emotion and true artistry. Be prepared to be reminded of why we love real music. introducing BILLBOARD BEAR.