Stokley
Stokley, a seasoned R&B singer and instrumentalist, enjoyed nearly a quarter-century of success with the group Mint Condition before embarking on his solo career. Born in St. Paul, Minnesota on July 15, 1967, Stokley Williams showed early musical talent, learning percussion instruments at the young age of four. Co-founding Mint Condition in the early ’80s with high school friends, Stokley served as the lead singer and drummer. The band’s breakthrough came in 1989 when they were discovered by Minneapolis R&B legends Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, leading to a record deal and hit singles from their debut album, Meant to Be Mint.
Stokley’s versatility shone beyond Mint Condition, with credits on albums by Janet Jackson, Sounds of Blackness, Johnny Gill, Color Me Badd, and collaborations with Prince, Elton John, and Toni Braxton. His talent was recognized with a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Performance in 2011, and his productions and vocals featured on albums by artists like Kelly Price and Wale. In 2017, Stokley finally released his solo album Introducing Stokley under his name, showcasing his outstanding musical abilities. The album, released by Concord in June 2017, marked a significant chapter in Stokley’s solo career, affirming his place as a distinguished artist in the R&B music scene.
Case
A native New Yorker, Case started his music career in the ’90s, providing backup vocals on albums for well-known R&B artists such as Usher. He was signed to the Def Jam label in the mid-’90s and released his debut self-titled album in 1996, followed by Personal Conversation in 1999 and Open Letter in 2001. On Open Letter, Case crafted each song with a specific person in mind, including a dedicated track for his daughter called ‘A Song for Skye’ and tracks like ‘Love of My Life’ and ‘Shine’ inspired by the legendary Stevie Wonder. Collaborating with renowned producers like Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis, and Tim & Bob, Case ventured into entrepreneurship by launching his own label, Indigo Blue, after requesting to be released from his Def Jam contract in 2004. The Rose Experience marked the label’s first release in 2009, followed by Here, My Love in 2010 under Real Talk Entertainment and Heaven’s Door in 2015 under eOne.
Read MoreThe O’Jays
Walter Williams and Eddie Levert first met when they were the ages of 6 and 7, respectively. As teenagers in Canton, Ohio, they formed a band originally consisting of Eddie Levert, Walter Williams, William Powell, Bobby Massey and Bill Isles. In 1963, the band took the name “The O’Jays” in tribute to Cleveland radio disc jockey Eddie O’Jay. Several members have changed, but the core, original lead singers, Eddie Levert and Walter Williams, continue to front the group.
In 1972, Gamble & Huff, a team of producers and songwriters with whom the O’Jays had been working for several years, signed the group to their Philadelphia International label. With this magic formula, The O’Jays scored the first #1 hit, “Backstabbers.” Subsequently, they succeeded with various chart-topping pop and R&B singles including “Love Train”, “For The Love of Money”, “I Love Music”, “Darlin’ Darlin’ Baby”, “Livin’ For The Weekend” and “Use Ta Be My Girl”.
The O’Jays were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2005 and were honored with BET’s Life Time Achievement Award in 2009. In 2013, they were inducted into the Official R&B Music Hall of Fame. Eddie Levert Sr., Walter Williams Sr. and Eric Nolan Grant, who joined the group in 1995, continue to thrill fans today. Throughout their career The O’Jays have achieved 10 Gold albums, 9 Platinum albums and 10 #1 hits. It’s been a long journey but thanks to the fans, the LOVE TRAIN is still going strong!
Ro James
Ronnie James Tucker, the renowned American R&B singer, has captured the hearts of music enthusiasts worldwide. His sensational 2015 single, ‘Permission,’ made a significant mark by reaching number 37 on the prestigious US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. With immense talent and vocal prowess, Ronnie James Tucker embarked on a remarkable journey in the music industry. He solidified his presence by signing with Mark Pitts’ ByStorm Entertainment, a distinguished imprint of RCA Records, to introduce his much-anticipated debut studio album, Eldorado, in 2016. Ronnie James Tucker’s soulful voice and captivating performance style have established him as a true gem in the realm of contemporary R&B music. His dedication to his craft and ability to resonate with audiences reflect his exceptional artistry and unwavering passion for music.
Read MoreReady For The World
READY FOR THE WORLD ascended upon the music scene in 1985 with stage presence and hit songs that helped skyrocket their career and solidified their status as bonafide international musicians, with the release of songs like “Oh Sheila,” “Love You Down” and “Digital Display.” The Flint, Michigan funk band with slight rock leanings parlayed sensuous vocals and trendy production into the group’s eponymous self-produced debut album, Ready For The World. Ballads tonight and deep inside your love were the first to hits. But it was their third single from the album, the magnificent Prince-sounding electronic dance tune oh sheila, that moved the group to the top of the Pop and Soul charts. oh sheila garnered four 1 positions on Billboard’s R&B, Pop, Dance and Video charts in just one week. That year becoming the first ever single by a group to hold the 1 spot on four Billboard charts simultaneously landing the group in the Guinness Book of World Records.
In 1986 members Gerald Valentine (drums), John Eaton (bass guitar) Gordon Strozier (lead guitar), Melvin Riley (lead vocals) Gregory Potts (keyboards) and Willie Triplett (keyboards, percussions) recorded their sophomore disc, Long Time Coming, which proved to be an equal success. The slow jam, love you down, landed them another cross-over hit, climbing to 1 on Billboard’s R&B charts, and reaching 9 on the Pop charts.
BJ The Chicago Kid
BJ the Chicago Kid, born Bryan James Sledge, is a seasoned singer and songwriter who gained recognition with Grammy nominations for his collaborations with artists like ScHoolboy Q and releases under Motown. With a blend of vintage and modern R&B styles, BJ has been active in the music industry for over a decade, showcasing his talents as a background singer, guest vocalist, and songwriter for renowned artists including Stevie Wonder, Kanye West, and Lalah Hathaway. He emerged as a successful headliner, expanding his discography through collaborations with Solange, Rapsody, and Anderson .Paak, along with the release of albums like In My Mind (2016) and 1123 (2019). Continuously evolving and diversifying his musical expression, BJ has demonstrated his versatility through a range of singles and EPs, most notably the 2021 EP 4 AM. Collaborating with producer Yeti Beats, BJ has delivered impactful tracks like
Read MoreMidnight Star
Formed at Kentucky State University in 1976, MIDNIGHT STAR began as a self-contained band and quickly earned a strong live performance reputation. A 1978 New York City showcase inspired Solar Records chief Dick Griffey to sign the group; and early 80’s albums like The Beginning, Standing Together, and Victory gave MIDNIGHT STAR a chance to hone their chops. In 1983 the Certified Double Platinum No Parking on the Dance Floor album established MIDNIGHT STAR as world-renowned songwriters, producers, and entertainers. The technofunk classic “Freak-AZoid”, the title cut “No Parking on the Dance Floor”, the smooth “Wet My Whistle”, album cuts like “Electricity” and “Slow Jam “thrusted the group to stardom.
The group’s passion has shown up in Platinum and Gold as they’ve poured out top 10 and No. 1 hits. The Planetary Invasion LP of 1985 took them to No. 1 with “Operator” and the sizzling “Curious”. In 1986 MIDNIGHT STAR struck gold with the title cut from the Headlines LP and the chartbuster “Midas Touch”. 1988 rowed them to the top of the charts again with “Don’t Rock the Boat” (featuring Ecstasy of Whodini) and the top 10 “Snake in the Grass”. The 90’s came with the smash “Do It (One More Time)” and “Red Roses ‘from their Work it Out CD. In the 2000’s MIDNIGHT STAR released their 15th Avenue CD featuring the soulful ballad “Hooked on You”.
Today MIDNIGHT STAR continues to perform its music to sold out crowds all over the world!
Cheryl Lynn
Cheryl Lynn, the talented artist, had significant collaborations with renowned figures like David Foster, David Paich, Ray Parker, Jr., Luther Vandross, and Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. These collaborations not only led to her major hits like ‘Got to Be Real,’ ‘Shake It Up Tonight,’ ‘If This World Were Mine,’ and ‘Encore’ but also contributed to the success of her collaborators, showcasing her powerful and vibrant voice honed in her church upbringing. As a skilled songwriter and producer, Cheryl Lynn reached the peak of her creativity and commercial success between 1978 and 1983, releasing three Top Ten R&B albums, including her gold-certified debut Cheryl Lynn (1978), Instant Love (1982), and Preppie (1983). After several albums with Columbia, she went on to record with Manhattan and Virgin, her last album being in the mid-’90s, maintaining intermittent performances and recordings.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Cheryl Lynn’s musical journey began in church where her mother served as a music director. Transitioning from her studies in speech therapy, she pursued acting and singing, eventually landing roles including a stint with The Wiz touring company. Recognized for her talent on The Gong Show, Cheryl Lynn’s career took off with her signature song ‘Got to Be Real,’ co-written with David Foster and David Paich. The success continued with her self-titled debut album, featuring hits like ‘Star Love’ and ‘You Saved My Day,’ solidifying her status in the music industry. Throughout the years, she collaborated with various artists like Ray Parker, Jr., Luther Vandross, and Miller, producing memorable tracks that resonated with audiences worldwide, marking her presence in the vibrant music scene of the era.
King George
Enthralling R&B vocals, feel good transitions, combined with a classic old school swag, effortless in his delivery and sincere in his approach, there is only one King George. The artist who is based out of Hopkin SC. Is currently preparing for the release of his highly anticipated album, Juke joint 2, has been on the rise, gaining significant momentum with each and every release, the artist displays a vast amount of versatility in his music. Party vibes are all around when King George is playing on your speakers, the artist’s tone rich and smooth glazed with his signature soothing accent. Lyrically his style is incredibly mature and always classy. Backed with incredible top-level production, the artist’s releases are always to an impeccably high standard. King George is without a doubt a fast-rising artist, growing leaps and bounds with every release. The future certainly looks incredibly bright.
Follow King George on social media: FB – KingGeorge803, IG – 803KingGeorge. Visit King George’s website: www.803kinggeorge.com. Stay connected with Ace Visionz Productions on social media: FB – Ace Visionz Productions, IG – @Acevisionzproductions. Visit Ace Visionz Productions’ website: www.AceVisionzproductions.com.
Gerald Levert
Gerald LeVert, a contemporary soul singer, inherited his musical talents from his father, Eddie LeVert, Sr. of the O’Jays. Growing up surrounded by music, Gerald’s upbringing under his father’s guidance paved the way for his successful career in the music industry. Together with his friend Marc Gordon and his brother Sean, Gerald formed the trio LeVert, debuting with the single ‘I’m Still’ that showcased his evolving vocal prowess. This initial success led to a record deal with Atlantic Records, where Gerald contributed to several chart-topping hits, including the Reggie and Vincent Calloway-written ‘Casanova’ and a duet with Miki Howard titled ‘That’s What Love Is’.
Gerald LeVert’s solo career took off with his debut album ‘Private Line,’ featuring his first R&B number one single. Collaborating with his father, he achieved another chart-topper with ‘Baby Hold on to Me.’ His diverse musical talent was further showcased with hits like ‘I Swear’ and ‘I’d Give Anything,’ produced by David Foster. Beyond his solo success, Gerald’s influence extended to other artists in the industry, where he lent his skills as a songwriter, vocalist, and producer to renowned names like the O’Jays, Barry White, and Patti Labelle. In 1997, he formed the group LSG with Keith Sweat and Johnny Gill, releasing the hit single ‘My Body.’ Despite his untimely passing in 2006, Gerald’s legacy lives on through his music, including albums like ‘Love & Consequences’ and ‘In My Songs,’ released posthumously.
Michel’le
Michel’le, an urban contemporary vocalist in the late ’80s and early ’90s, was known for her distinctive squeaky voice and powerful singing style. Referred to as the Betty Boop of urban contemporary due to her voice, Michel’le’s music showcased a gritty yet captivating sound. Her hit song “No More Lies” exemplified her hip-hop-influenced approach to R&B, influenced by her association with N.W.A., including Dr. Dre and Eazy-E. Managed by industry veteran Jerry Heller, Michel’le’s unique sound stood out in the urban contemporary scene of the time.
A trailblazer ahead of her time, Michel’le paved the way for artists like Mary J. Blige, Faith Evans, and Lauryn Hill in the realm of neo-soul and hip-hop. Signing with Eazy-E’s Ruthless Records in 1989, Michel’le’s self-titled debut album, produced by Dr. Dre, showcased her urban contemporary style with a funky edge. Despite East Coast/West Coast rivalry, Michel’le’s music gained popularity on both R&B and pop charts, with hits like “No More Lies” and “Nicety.” However, her success waned in the late ’90s, with her second album, Hung Jury, failing to reach the heights of her debut.
Eugene Wilde
Ron Broomfield, aka Eugene Wilde, seemed ready to become a megastar in the mid-’80s. The Miami-based vocalist, who had formerly been with Life, had a resonant, authoritative voice and very confident manner. He scored number one R&B hits in 1984 and 1985 recording for Philly W. Records. “Gotta Get You Home Tonight” and “Don’t Say No Tonight” were lyrically predictable, but expertly produced and sang with plenty of suggestiveness and sentimental appeal. Wilde scored one more Top Ten hit with “Diana” in 1986, but switched to MCA and soon lost his momentum. Wilde later sang lead vocals for Cabo Frio on their Zebra/MCA LP before trying again in vain with I Choose You Tonight in 1989. ~ Ron Wynn, Rovi
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