 Growing up, Salter won several local talent shows, with a vocal style that was influenced by Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder.In 1997, Salter had his chance in music when his demo tape found its way into the hands of L.A. Reid of LaFace Records.He quickly signed Salter, and Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds began to work on his debut album, "It's On Tonight".