In order to make inroads into the sales charts, a group or performer generally needs a gimmick to gain and keep attention. In the case of Brenton Wood, the gimmick was a strong voice that could take command of diverse and/or difficult material and make it accessible without sacrificing aesthetics. Born Alfred Jesse Smith in Shreveport, Louisiana. He moved west to San Pedro, California as a child. When his family relocated to nearby Compton during his high school years, Brenton Wood became a member of the Compton High School track team, where he was the recipient of several awards for his athletic achievements.