Born in Germany and raised as a military child, Barry has seen the world and experienced more than the average young man in his twenties. He grew up listening to Motown artists and bands such as Frankie Beverly and Maze; Earth, Wind and Fire and the Gap Band. Barry also participated in various talent shows in order to perfect his craft in singing and songwriting. While attending Albany State University, Barry connected with Lightsout Entertainment and began working on his solo project.

The mission of Emotional Progression is to not only recall the golden days of R&B, but to transcend the past and present face of the neo-soul genre. As a concept, the purpose of Barry Ousley's album is to serve as a beatiful and honest journey through the mind of a young man dealing with love in the new millennium.