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Warner Newman wears his heart on his sleeve when he sings, "I'm ready to go to war/I want to pursue this," on his highly-anticipated debut single, aptly-titled "War." The song chronicles his journey from the bottom to coming back on top despite the many challenges life has thrown at him ever since he was a little kid. The track was produced by GRAMMY-winning producer Brian Paturalski (Outkast) and remixes come courtesy of The White N3rd, Lewis Fuller and Gainsford.

Born and raised in New Zealand and now living in London, Warner Newman's life has been far from easy. He was involved in two serious road accidents at the ages of 4 and 10, causing him to have extensive reconstructive surgery on his face and head. The accident at the age of ten was so serious he was told he may never walk again.

Music strengthened his soul and ultimately helped him to recover completely. While lying in his hospital bed, Warner listened to music to pass away the time, taking solace and strength in listening to Queen, Guns n Roses, and Bob Marley, and his first introduction to hip hop in the form of Tupac, before an obsession with Eminem began later in his life. Growing into his teens was difficult for Warner who looked different to his school peers.

After the untimely death of his brother, Warner left home, and moved to Auckland aged 16, and at 17 began auditioning for bands. The encouragement and confidence he gained from making music began Warner's life focus, he says; "I felt like I was home." 

"War" unveils Warner's anthemic brand of pop that combines his empowering storytelling with arena-sized hooks. His lyrics about hardship and hope are expertly layered over a gritty hip-hop groove that help amplify his transparently raw lyrics. File next to Tinie Tempah "Written In The Stars" and Professor Green "Read All About it." (Warner Newman "War" will be released June 16 on Lukey Boy Records. Pre-order on iTunes.)