Writer. Musician. Actor. Academic. Volunteer.
Universo founded the rock band Red Carpet Rats serving as its frontman, lyricist, and rhythm guitarist and has had the privilege of touring and recording with countless industry luminaries. As an owner of Chauffeur Entertainment, a company housing a record label and publishing division, Universo was instrumental in getting Red Carpet Rats signed to a subsidiary of Universal Music Group.
Universo has placed his songs in film and television soundtracks and his music on channels including MTV, VH1, E! Entertainment, and Oxygen. His tune "Going To Hell" attained Top 10 status in multiple countries, starting at 104.3 FM "The Buzz" radio in the U.S. Virgin Islands and leading to an 85-date tour of the territory. As a result, he secured a deal as a writer for the MasterSource music catalogue, one of the industry's leading providers of original music for film, television, and multimedia.
Cast as rock star "Stacee Jaxx" in the National Broadway Tour of the hit musical Rock of Ages, Universo performed more than 300 hundred shows to sold-out theaters, arenas, and amphitheaters across North America. His portrayal garnered critical raves and led to countless television performances and live appearances.
Universo performed "A Tribute To Smokey Robinson" and participated in a live rendition of "We Are the World" in Heroes & Legends' celebration of Motown's 50th Anniversary in Los Angeles. In a series of commercial spots for Verizon Wireless, he played the "Man in Black" character, performing as part of a rockabilly trio alongside celebrated Musicians Hall of Fame members. Universo then reprised the role live on Verizon's Rock N' Rollout Tour.
As a Presenter and Musician, Universo was instrumental in the launch of the lifestyle channel Back9Network and made regular appearances in its daily programming. Additionally, he served as music director for a network nightly talk show while providing both pre-recorded and live musical accompaniment.
A participant of Musicians On Call, which brings live and recorded music to the patients' bedsides in healthcare facilities, Universo is also honored to have worked with the Tennessee chapter of Prevent Child Abuse America.