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Anita Baker has had enough of <a href="https://www.wbls.com/wbls-news/babyface-performs-for-nprs-tiny-desk">Babyface</a> fans. The singer took to Twitter to address some of the hate she has been receiving online from his fans after they had some opinions about the tour she is on with the singer. https://twitter.com/IAMANITABAKER/status/1667220469769211909?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1667220469769211909%7Ctwgr%5Eae29ff5f239de8e8718775ab0c416e074dac54bd%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fvariety.com%2F2023%2Fmusic%2Fnews%2Fanita-baker-babyface-concert-feud-1235641411%2FIn May, the dup stopped in Newark, NJ for a performance many fans were excited to see. Due to some complications, the show was running 2 hours late and resulted in Babyface no longer performing. He took to Twitter with a message for his fans. “I am truly sorry to my fans who have been waiting for us to hit the stage this evening at @PruCenter. I was asked not to perform in order to give Ms. Baker her space and time to perform her show in its entirety,” Babyface <a href="https://twitter.com/babyface/status/1656471474549686272?s=20">wrote</a>. “My band and I are extremely saddened we didn’t get to perform for y’all tonight.”In a new thread of tweets shared by Baker on Monday, she revealed that she has been getting harassed online by his fans ever since. The songstress touched on many topics regarding the tour. One being that he is under contract to solely be her opening act and he has been breaching the agreement by staying on longer thanhis set time, which cuts into hers.Anita Baker concluded the thread by asking Babyface to speak to his fans. “Kenny’s Crazies are online Bullies. <a href="https://twitter.com/babyface" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">@Babyface</a>. Please call off, your fans. I have been Only Kind and Supportive, of You, as the Special Guest/Support, on My Tour...There is A White man, behind these Grown Black Men... harrassing Me & Gaslighting, My Fans. Because he Cant take over, this Tour... sO? He wants to Destroy it. Kenny’s Crazy Narcissist <a href="https://twitter.com/babyface" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">@Babyface</a> call off, your Boys.”

Anita Baker Feuds With Babyface Fans Online

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After a several tweet-long thread about the harassment she has been facing from Babyface fans, singer Anita Baker has decided to take the singer off of her tour.https://twitter.com/IAMANITABAKER/status/1668643068847980546?s=20She revealed on Twitter that she has reached her breaking point when it comes to the comments made online about her. “After Silently, Enduring Cyber Bulling/Verbal Abuse & Threats of Violence from the Fan Base, of Our Special Guest/Support Act. In the Interest of Personal Safety. I will continue, ‘The Songstress Tour,’ alone. Appropriate refunds will be made. Blessings,” Baker wrote on Tuesday while simultaneously posting a new tour poster that no longer features Babyface.Babyface addressed the situation in a statement shared with Variety by his representative. “I am saddened by the news that Anita Baker has decided to remove me from ‘The Songstress Tour.’ It’s unfortunate and disheartening to see how things have played out via social media. While I was looking forward to the rest of the dates, I have nothing but love & respect for Anita and I wish her the best for the remainder of her tour.”The next stop on the tour will be June 30th at the United Center in Chicago.

Anita Baker Removes Babyface From Tour

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In continuation of its Black Music Month celebration, NPR hosted another <a href="https://www.wbls.com/wbls-news/charlie-wilson-performs-for-nprs-tiny-desk">Tiny Desk</a> concert. This time featuring hit producer and artist, Babyface. https://youtu.be/3eHc0Xz_HioThe 11-time Grammy Award winner joined the video series to perform songs he has written and sung. Musical acts like Tank and Avery Wilson joined Babyface as background vocalists for the performance. He performed songs like The Deele and Babyface’s Two Occasions, Whip Appeal, Karyn White’s Superwoman, Mary J. Blige’s Not Gon’ Cry, and many more. When he was about to begin the ballad by Mary J. Blige, Babyface recalled working with her on the track for the film, Waiting To Exhale."I got to work with all these different women on the project," Babyface said. "It was so crazy, because everybody was so different from each other, and I remember when I went to New York to work on this song, it was the first time for me working with (her). Well, she's a queen and fabulous, and she called me Mr. Face. It was so cool to work with her and it was an incredible experience. I think she's the one."

Babyface Performs For NPR's 'Tiny Desk'

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The year 2022 was a colorful time for R&B music and all of it's hybrid forms. From the small stage to the stadium arena, artists at all career levels helped to tackle the popularized question: Is R&B Dead? This year's music releases took vibrant, genre bendy arrangements: house-inspired, jazz-infused, hip-hop flavored, and psychedelic euphoria. Robert Glasper returned with the third installment of his Black Radio series delivering jazz and hip hop melodies. Beyoncé fans found refuge with her disco/house themed Renaissance album. Already long celebrated for his work as a musician and producer, Steve Lacy's "Bad Habit" catapulted him to higher levels, earning him multiple Grammy nominations. Drake took a stylistic departure for Honestly, Nevermind, offering a house/Baltimore club sound that had listeners initially confused. Staying on brand, Lizzo's Special was a playful, braggadocious pop/disco album that promoted positivity and women's empowerment. Maverick City Music teamed up with Kirk Franklin for Kingdom One Book to shed light on injustices in the community. Moonchild's Starfruit album was entirely dedicated to Black women. Babyface collaborated with the new generation of women artists on Girls Night Out. Some albums were devoted to keeping R&B's rich history alive while others pushed the genre into uncharted territories. Take a look below at some of the album releases you may have missed!<h4 class="has-text-align-center has-white-color has-text-color has-background" id="h-new-sounds-of-r-b" style="background:linear-gradient(53deg,rgb(227,7,7) 0%,rgba(29,14,63,0.84) 100%)">New Sounds of R&B</h4>Amber Mark <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/three-dimensions-deep/1586330404" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Three Dimensions Deep</a> Ravyn Lenae <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/hypnos/1619405167" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hypnos</a> Emotional Oranges <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-juice-vol-iii/1657308485">The Juice, Vol. III</a> Dixson <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/004daisy/1640153878" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">004Daisy</a> Alex Isley <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/marigold/1613203840">Marigold</a> Phony Ppl <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/euphonyus/1653007774" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Euphonyus</a><h4 class="has-text-align-center has-white-color has-text-color has-background" style="background:linear-gradient(53deg,rgb(174,10,10) 18%,rgba(29,14,63,0.84) 90%)">Veteran Players</h4>Morris Day <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/last-call/1644973560" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Last Call</a>John Legend <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/legend/1637517462" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Legend</a>The Isley Brothers <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/make-me-say-it-again-girl/1642624606" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Make Me Say It Again, Girl</a> Eric Roberson <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/lessons/1618536653" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lessons</a> Babyface <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/girls-night-out/1644747875" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Girls Night Out</a><h4 class="has-text-align-center has-white-color has-text-color has-background" style="background:linear-gradient(53deg,rgb(227,7,7) 0%,rgba(29,14,63,0.84) 100%)">House/Dance</h4>Beyoncé <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/renaissance/1630005298" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Renaissance</a>Drake <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/honestly-nevermind/1630230040" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Honestly, Nevermind</a>Honey Dijon <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/black-girl-magic/1650010133" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Black Girl Magic</a><h4 class="has-text-align-center has-white-color has-text-color has-background" style="background:linear-gradient(53deg,rgb(227,7,7) 0%,rgba(29,14,63,0.84) 99%)">Soulful Affirmations</h4>Mary J. Blige <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/good-morning-gorgeous-deluxe/1621795202">Good Morning Gorgeous</a> Lizzo <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/special/1619161952">Special</a> Kehlani <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/blue-water-road/1615644274" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Blue Water Road</a> Durand Bernarr <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/wanderlust/1644738428" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wanderlust</a><h4 class="has-text-align-center has-white-color has-text-color has-background" style="background:linear-gradient(53deg,rgb(227,7,7) 2%,rgba(29,14,63,0.84) 100%)">Romance and Love</h4>Tank <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/r-b-money/1595705479">R&B Money</a> Ella Mai <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/heart-on-my-sleeve/1616728060" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Heart On My Sleeve</a> Ari Lennox <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/age-sex-location/1639000185" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Age/Sex/Location</a> Lucky Daye <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/candydrip-deluxe/1658192222" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Candydrip</a> Syd <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/broken-hearts-club/1614393947" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Broken Hearts Club</a> Wizkid <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/more-love-less-ego/1651723071">More Love, Less Ego</a> Sabrina Claudio <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/based-on-a-feeling/1615098416">Based On A Feeling</a><h4 class="has-text-align-center has-white-color has-text-color has-background" id="h-alternative-r-b" style="background:linear-gradient(53deg,rgb(227,7,7) 2%,rgba(29,14,63,0.84) 99%)">Alternative R&B</h4>The Weeknd <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/dawn-fm/1603171516" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dawn FM</a> SZA <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/sos/1657869377" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SOS</a>Steve Lacy <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/gemini-rights/1631909576">Gemini Rights</a>Smino <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/luv-4-rent/1650481396" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luv 4 Rent</a> Kyle <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/its-not-so-bad/1607705717" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">It's Not So Bad</a>Jazzy & DreamyMoonchild <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/starfruit/1593147759">Starfruit</a> Robert Glasper <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/black-radio-iii-supreme-edition/1648995111" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Black Radio III</a> Devin Morrison <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/dream-lobby-vol-iv/1647506214">Dream Lobby Vol. IV</a><h4 class="has-text-align-center has-white-color has-text-color has-background" style="background:linear-gradient(53deg,rgb(227,7,7) 0%,rgba(29,14,63,0.84) 100%)">Hip Hop Adjacent</h4>Buddy <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/superghetto/1609481377" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Superghetto</a>Jacquees <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/sincerely-for-you/1655004070" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sincerely For You</a> Chris Brown <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/breezy-deluxe/1633160273" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Breezy</a> Tink <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/pillow-talk/1634311929">Pillow Talk</a>Kid Cudi <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/entergalactic/1647008692" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Entergalatic </a> Brent Faiyaz <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/wasteland/1629943089" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wasteland</a><h4 class="has-text-align-center has-white-color has-text-color has-background" style="background:linear-gradient(53deg,rgb(227,7,7) 0%,rgba(29,14,63,0.84) 100%)">Contemporary R&B</h4>Ne-Yo <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/self-explanatory/1629963464" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Self Explanatory </a>Alicia Keys <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/keys-ii/1634840681">Keys II</a> Dram <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/what-had-happened-was/1645358892">What Had Happened Was</a>Arin Ray <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/hello-poison/1627125814">Hello Poision</a>Giveon <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/give-or-take/1627365840">Give or Take</a> PJ Morton <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/watch-the-sun/1617906911" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Watch The Sun</a> India Shawn <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/before-we-go-deeper/1635186088" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Before We Go Deeper</a>Uplifting the CommunityMaverick City Music <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/breathe-feat-mav-city-gospel-choir-ep/1608101677">Breathe</a> Maverick City Music <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/kingdom-book-one-deluxe/1634357150">Kingdom One Book</a>Tank and the Bangas <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/red-balloon/1604249854">Red Balloon</a>

A Revisit Of 2022's Album Releases: R&B/Soul, Pop, House + Jazz

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Babyface sits down with Deja Vu as he discusses the journey through his career including his beginning with The Deal, why working with Toni Braxton was so special including revealing that her 1992 hit "Love Shoulda Brought You Home" was originally written for Anita Baker who passed on the track.He also discusses some of his processes songwriting for solo acts vs groups, Tevin Campbell's 1993 hit 'Can We Talk' going viral and becoming popular all over again, writing for different genres, and today's trend in music.His project Girls Night Out is available now!

Babyface On Working w/ New Voices Of R&B, 'Can We Talk' Going Viral, + Chemistry w/ Toni Braxton

Babyface has a new label home.The 12-time Grammy Award winner signed with Capitol Records. In a statement, he said he’s honored. Babyface said,“I am extremely honored and humbled to be signing to a legacy label like Capitol. They have welcomed me with open arms and treat me like family.” The publication also points out Babyface is working on his first <a href="https://www.hot97.com/hip-hop-news/hot-news/the-wrap-up-loreal-luchi-young-thug-chris-brown-gunna/">album</a> with the label, called Girls Night Out. Set to be released on October 29, fans can expect a “sonic journey through love, heartbreak, and all the emotions in between,” the article reports, Todays stars like Ella Mai, Ari Lennox, Queen Naija and more are set to be featured on it. <a href="https://news.yahoo.com/fruits-babyfaces-200m-estate-enjoyed-201947980.html">Babyface</a> produced the upcoming album and Rika Tischendorf co-produced it. When talking about <a href="https://www.okayplayer.com/music/babyface-to-release-girls-night-out-album-featuring-ella-mai-kehlani-more.html/amp">Girls Night Out,</a> Babyface said he’s excited. He said, “I am very excited about the upcoming album and everyone on it. The process for it reminded me of when I did Waiting to Exhaleand I’m excited for the world to hear.”Michelle Jubelirer, Chair & CEO, Capitol Music Group, is happy Babyface signed with the label. Jubelirer said, “Babyface’s return to the studio is long overdue, and I couldn’t be happier that he’s chosen Capitol as the home for such a wonderful new album. To hear his one-of-a-kind voice paired with some of music’s most impressive female artists is a joy that we can’t wait to share.”Take a listen to “Keep On Fallin,” by Babyface ft. Ella Mai:https://youtu.be/ANanL4WFCnU <a href="https://globalgrind.com/5351121/babyface-capitol-records-gno/">Via</a>

Babyface Inks New Deal With Capitol Records, New Album On The Way

Bobby Brown fans get ready for this one! It has been stated that a new documentary and docuseries about the singer’s life is in the works. Both projects are set to air on A&E Network as part of a two-night special. The documentary event is called Biography: Bobby Brown which is set to be centered on his life, starting with his childhood, growing up in Roxbury, Massachusetts, to his musical rise to fame, and his infamous marriage to the late Whitney Houston.A press release about the series stated, “In exclusive interviews, the R&B icon unveils his struggles with substance abuse, his marriage to Whitney Houston, and the devastating loss of Houston and his two children and his life as a devoted father and husband to Alicia Etheredge-Brown.” It went on to say, “Confronting his very personal yet very public struggles, Brown recounts what it was like to become a music phenomenon at such a young age in this tell-all documentary. In an effort to come to terms with his tumultuous past, Bobby, for the very first time, visits the gravesite of Whitney Houston and daughter Bobbi Kristina and holds a deeply moving tribute in honor of Bobby Junior. The documentary includes interviews with Usher, Jermaine Dupri, Keith Sweat, Babyface, New Edition’s Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, Ronnie DeVoe, and Johnny Gill, as well as his family, friends, and those who experienced this journey with him. Over the course of two nights, viewers will get to hear never-before-heard stories as they reflect on Bobby’s life both on and off stage.”In addition to the documentary, fans will also get a chance to see who Bobby Brown is now in a 12-part docuseries called Bobby Brown: Every Little Step. This series is set to focus on the singer’s struggles within the music business, the loss of his son, focusing on his physical health, and more. The documentary is set to air on Monday, May 30th, and Tuesday, May 31st while the first episode of the docuseries will begin to air on Tuesday, June 7th at 9 pm.

Bobby Brown To Get A New Documentary And Docuseries About His Life

The moment we have all been waiting for is finally here. WBLS’s Circle of Sisters 2021 is officially back!This year’s COS will be the ultimate virtual experience celebrating the accomplishments of our fellow sisters. This experience will include daytime interactive sessions on health, beauty, social justice, and more. Attendees will also have access to our star-studded R&B and Gospel live music events. Circle of Sisters will take place from December 3rd -5th and it will be filled with a lot of panels, workshops, activities, and more. Highlights of the three-day virtual spectacular includs an opening night wine tasting, followed by an intimate conversation with Mary J. Blige, Queen of Hip Hop Soul. On Saturday, be inspired and motivated by Steve Harvey, sit down with Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds and learn all about the singer/producer, and experience the annual Circle of Sisters R&B concert with performances by After 7, Lela James and Anthony Hamilton. Get ready to close the weekend, Gospel Sunday featuring GRAMMY Award-winning gospel artist Hezekiah Walker and special guests.To attend you can get your tickets on <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wbls-circle-of-sisters-2021-tickets-191276351717">WBLS.com/circleofsisters</a> starting Friday, November 5th at 3 pm EST!Follow us on our various social media networks on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wblscircleofsisters/">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WBLSCircleOfSisters/">Facebook</a> for the latest updates! For exclusive content and offers join the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/CircleOfSistersInnerCircle">Inner Circle Facebook</a> group!Want to be a vendor and showcase your product to thousands across the nation? <a href="https://www.wbls.com/circle-of-sisters-2021/become-a-cos-vendor/">Get more information! </a>

Yes! Circle Of Sisters 2021 Is Officially Back!

Today we give roses and respect to Boyz II Men’s 1994 album II.Recently on Netflix’s This Is Pop, Boyz II Men was heavily featured and discussed for their role in influencing the current state of pop culture. The album that propelled the Philadelphia group to superstar status was their second album II. It’d be fair to argue that II is actually the group’s third album, depending on how you classify their 1993 Christmas album Christmas Interpretations.Boyz II Men now tours as a trio consisting of Nathan Morris, Wanya Morris, and Shawn Stockman; but at the time of II they were a quartet inclusive of bass vocalist Michael McCary. As a quartet, they popularized accapella singing and dominated the music scene with powerful vocals that no other boy band at the time was able to achieve. The group is often referred to as a quartet, because their vocal stylings were reminiscent of old school singers which stood out in popular music during the mid-to-early 90’s. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fV8vB1BB2qc<h2>Record Breaking Hits</h2>II was the number one album in America, France, and New Zealand; it sold more than 350,000 physical copies in the first week, and went 12x Platinum in the United States. Boyz II Men was the third artist or group to ever have two #1 hits on the same album (II), they were the first group to do this in more than thirty years, joining the Beatles and Elvis Presley. Those #1 hits were "I'll Make Love to You" and "On Bended Knee," two songs that play in succession on the album and spent months on the Billboard Hot 100."I'll Make Love to You" spent an astounding 14 weeks at #1 on the Billboard charts. Boyz II Men was the first artist or group to achieve 10+ weeks at #1 on the charts with back-to-back singles, “End of the Road,” spent 13 weeks at number one followed by “I’ll Make Love To You.” Both songs were written and produced by the legendary Babyface, who has penned more than twenty-six #1 records and won a dozen Grammys. Beyond that obvious classic, “On Bended Knee '' was a mammoth of a record itself. It stayed at number one on the Billboard charts for a total of six weeks. Between "On Bended Knee" and "I’ll Make Love To You" - Boyz II Men were at #1 on the charts for 20 out of 52 weeks in 1994. "On Bended Knee" is a plea for an ex to come back, Boyz II Men sing their hearts out.<h2>Beyond the Hits.</h2>Although the hits were astounding, II is an incredibly comprehensive album with twists and turns that will catch you on either side. The album starts with a Doug E. Fresh sample on Thank You, and ends with the quartet covering Yesterday by the Beatles. U Know features a classic 90’s rap beat, but then Water Runs Dry features a beautiful string section. Boyz II Men were incredibly versatile at a young age, and working with legendary talent like Babyface and Curtis Mayfield allowed for II to become one of the most successful albums of all-time.Music is a copycat game, but to this day no one has successfully mimicked the success or style of Boyz II Men. Their legacy is cemented on the main street of their hometown, Washington Ave and Broad Street in South Philly was named “Boyz II Men Blvd” in their honor. Today, we give Boyz II Men their roses.https://open.spotify.com/album/1IWhZEOwEoXbOB4a40XaR3

Giving Roses: Boyz II Men's Album 'II'

Singer/Songwriter/Producer Kenneth Edmonds also known as Babyface and his wife Nicole Pantenburg have decided to part ways after seven years of <a href="https://www.wbls.com/news/entertainment/kenya-moore-marc-daly-call-it-quits-again/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">marriage</a>.No reason way at the moment as to why the marriage ended, the former couple expressed their respect for one another in a joint statement.[caption id="attachment_68786" align="alignnone" width="2871"]<img class="size-full wp-image-68786" src="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/1311/2021/07/14120252/GettyImages-884704666.jpg" alt="Babyface and Nicole" width="2871" height="3000" /> (Photo by Ron Sachs - Pool/Getty Images)[/caption]"After much thought and with great sadness, we have decided to end our marriage. We continue to care and have respect for one another and share eternal love for our daughter and her well-being. We ask for personal privacy for ourselves and our daughter as we navigate these new steps as a family."Nicole and Babyface share one daughter together, Payton Nicole (12).

Babyface & Wife Nicole Pantenburg Call it Quits After 7 Years of Marriage

Today we give roses, love, and respect to TLC’s 1994 album CrazySexyCool. TLC’s second album “Crazysexycool” propelled Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins, and Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas into superstardom. This album is featured in Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time, it has two songs that reached the top 5 on the Billboard charts, and sold more than 23 million copies. The intro to this iconic album features two hip-hop greats in Andre 3000 and Phife Dawg on a track called “Intro-lude.” Andre 3000 also spearheads the outro to Crazysexycool, with a rap verse to start Sumthin Wicked This Way comes. Immediately following Intro-lude comes one of TLC’s most popular and most overlooked songs, "Creep." The second track of this album "Creep" earned TLC a Grammy for “Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.” Weirdly enough, two thirds of TLC disliked this song. Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins <a href="https://www.billboard.com/articles/pop-shop/girl-group-week/6487545/tlc-creep-inspiration-20th-anniversary">disliked the track</a> because it was written about her then boyfriend, Delvin, who was a member of the group Jodeci, whereas Left Eye disliked the subject matter of the song.TLC’s use of boom bap drums dominate on songs like "Case of the Fake People" and "Kick Your Game." A tip of the cap goes to TLC on both of these songs for sampling songs with similar themes. In the case of "Case of the Fake People," the breakdown from the O'Jays "Backstabbers" is sampled - the songs have nearly identical messages. As for "Kick Your Game," the lesser known "Watching You" by Loose Ends helped provide the “watching you, watching me” chorus for TLC. The producers of this album consist of legendary talents such as; Sean “Diddy” Combs, Jermaine Dupri, Babyface, and Organized Noize. This team of producers were doing high level sampling long before computers made sampling easy and accessible. <h2>Waterfalls</h2>Now let’s talk about about a song that’s so catchy that it made safe sex cool, Waterfalls. More than 25 years after its release Waterfalls remains a massive hit. This song is played on hip-hop radio, R&B stations, Top 40, and throwback channels, it’s perfect for a BBQ, birthday party, or club. Listen closely to the background vocals of Waterfall and you’ll hear multi-Grammy award winning vocalist Cee Lo Green. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8WEtxJ4-sh4Waterfalls features no samples, yet has been sampled about a dozen times by artists like Freddie Gibbs, Chris Brown, and Pharrell. This song remains culturally relevant, as it has been streamed more than 200 million times on Spotify, viewed more than 100 million times on YouTube and referenced in recent popular songs like "SHELTER" by Wyclef, Chance the Rapper, and Vic Mensa. Beyond its behemoth hits, Crazysexycool has fun songs like "Switch" and more sentimental songs like "Take Our Time" - that truly show TLC’s range. This album set the stage for future women to be both pop artists and rappers. As a trio TLC was genre-bending, authentic, and brought a strong female perspective to the forefront of pop music. For all these reasons, we give roses to TLC”s "CrazySexyCool" as an album that deserves to be praised far after its release.If you have suggestions for who we should give roses to next week, tweet to @WBLS1075NYC or comment below on Facebook, make sure to use the hashtag #GiveRoses. https://music.apple.com/us/album/crazysexycool/270246704

Giving Roses: Honoring TLC’s \"CrazySexyCool\"

There is a noticeable generation gap in R&B music, between Usher and Frank Ocean’s career peaks sits the valley of 2009-2012 R&B charts where Keri Hilson and Trey Songz reign supreme. At the turn of the 2010’s R&B began to evolve and merge with hip-hop more frequently and simultaneously mainstream R&B transitioned towards a more emotional feel. Popular R&B songs of 2021 have much more in common with Babyface, Boyz II Men, and the early 90’s sound than they do with Usher, R. Kelly, and the sounds of the early 2000’s. It’d be dishonest to say there are no R&B stars nowadays, in fact there are a number of “hip-hop/pop stars” that are R&B stars too like Beyonce, Bruno Mars, Drake, and Chris Brown. Beyond R&B-hip-hop hybrids, there are still bonafide R&B superstars like The Weeknd, Janelle Monae, Miguel, Frank Ocean, and SZA who are all 35 or younger. <h3>The Superstar Class of R&B</h3>Alongside The Weeknd (31), Janelle Monae (35), Miguel (35), Frank Ocean (33) and SZA (30) on the top of the Millennial R&B throne sits Kehlani (26), Jorja Smith (23), SAINt JHN (34), Jeremih (33), and Snoh Aalegra (33). All of these artists are well-established with dedicated fan bases and undeniable hits. There are distinguished differences between the stylings of these artists, all of them talented in their own right. SAINt JHN, SZA, and Jorja Smith are more likely to be singing overtop a rap beat with high hat drums than Snoh Aalegra.When a Frank Ocean or SZA album drops, a sizable portion of the world stops. Albums like Ctrl and Blonde are timeless - between SZA and Frank Ocean there are only four published feature albums on Spotify. In just two albums, SZA and Frank Ocean have cemented themselves as R&B legends. (yes I know about their mixtapes, visual, and film albums)You cannot sleep on the accomplishments of <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/3KV3p5EY4AvKxOlhGHORLg?si=vibP54_KRaG5AR9DyBRpKA&dl_branch=1">Jeremih</a>. Christmas albums, Don't Tell 'Em, Down On Me - Jeremih has been around for a long time and he's going to stay around for a long time. Similarly H.E.R released her first album in 2017 and has only gotten stronger as an artist; she's only 23 years old so we've got decades of <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/3Y7RZ31TRPVadSFVy1o8os?si=RJQTEtttSsy-9UzQWRg-QA&dl_branch=1">H.E.R</a> hits to come.Two artists on the precipice of R&B and rap that can’t go unrecognized are Doja Cat and <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/3jK9MiCrA42lLAdMGUZpwa?si=FK5kJMC1QKeWN1a6Gln2ZA&dl_branch=1">Anderson .Paak</a>. Doja Cat went from a viral sensation to one of the most popular artists on Earth, her songs lean more towards hip-hop, but we shouldn’t discredit <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/5cj0lLjcoR7YOSnhnX0Po5?si=U4HqPRbgSRylnVttbQFgQQ&dl_branch=1">Doja Cat’s</a> singing just because she’s a great rapper. Similarly Anderson .Paak has always had a versatile and melodic delivery while rapping and singing, but his role opposite Bruno Mars in Silk Sonic has solidified his place within R&B. <h3>The Star Class</h3>The star class of R&B Millennials consists of Mahalia (23), Masego (28), Dominic Fike (25), Summer Walker (25), Chloe X Halle (20’s), Tinashe (28), Ella Mai (26), Pink Sweat$ (29), Kali Uchis (26), Jhene Aiko (33), Steve Lacy (23), Rex Orange County (23), FKA twigs (33), Jon Bellion (30), and Daniel Caesar (26).All of these artists have songs eclipsing or nearing 100 million streams on Spotify, and have collaborated with top-level talent in the music industry. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/6USv9qhCn6zfxlBQIYJ9qs">Dominic Fike</a>, for example, is most well-known for his collaborations with BROCKHAMPTON, but is also the primary vocalist on Paul McCartney’s collaboration album. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/57vWImR43h4CaDao012Ofp">Steve Lacy</a> has collaborated with Calvin Harris, Ella Mai has worked with Ty Dolla $ign, and both <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/1W7FNibLa0O0b572tB2w7t">Pink Sweat$</a> and <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/3ycxRkcZ67ALN3GQJ57Vig">Masego</a> made hit-singles with Kehlani. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/0AsThoR4KZSVktALiNcQwW">ChloexHalle</a> and Tinashe are both members of the “child star to music star” pipeline. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/0NIIxcxNHmOoyBx03SfTCD">Tinashe</a> is an established veteran in the entertainment industry with five featured albums and acting credits like Polar Express and Two & Half Men, whereas Chloe X Halle are newer on the scene and more products of the internet than traditional media. Both acts are a step away from superstardom with elite level talent and multiple hits. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/7HkdQ0gt53LP4zmHsL0nap">Ella Mai</a>, Rex Orange County, FKA twigs, and Mahalia are the leaders of a burgeoning R&B scene in the UK. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/7pbDxGE6nQSZVfiFdq9lOL">Rex Orange County</a> found early career success through his affiliation with rap group Odd Future and has turned into one of the most consistent artists in the genre. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/6nB0iY1cjSY1KyhYyuIIKH">FKA twigs</a> is in a league of her own, her voice is haunting and beautiful - her voice is so distinct that you can barely hear her British accent as she sings. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/16rCzZOMQX7P8Kmn5YKexI">Mahalia</a> and Ella Mai are both extremely versatile vocalists, displaying the ability to sing alongside rappers like Meek Mill and Rico Nasty while also turning out soulful solo tracks. When you’re in love, listen to Ella Mai’s “Boo’d Up,” then when you break up sing Mahalia’s “I Wish I Missed My Ex.” <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/1U1el3k54VvEUzo3ybLPlM">Kali Uchis,</a> Jon Bellion, and Summer Walker are in a league of their own with several smash hits well over 100+ million streams on Spotify. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/57LYzLEk2LcFghVwuWbcuS">Summer Walker</a> has hits with A-List talent like Usher and Drake, similarly Kali Uchis has a hit with Tyler, the Creator. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/50JJSqHUf2RQ9xsHs0KMHg?si=LXum2kRbQEKM3wsdjcSV6w&dl_branch=1">Jon Bellion</a> rose to prominence after writing for Rihanna, on one hand - he's often considered a pop artist, but on the other hand he his most recent album features from Quincy Jones, and the RZA. These artists are undeniably talented but remain a hair away from being household names. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/2EMAnMvWE2eb56ToJVfCWs">Bryson Tiller</a> (28) is also a part of this star class, his 2015 T R A P S O U L album has cemented his legacy in the genre - but his 2020 sophomore album underwhelmed. In 2021, Tiller is popping up on DJ Khaled records and Ty Dolla $ign remixes in an attempt to gain back some prominence. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/20wkVLutqVOYrc0kxFs7rA?si=M3mVejL-RyCubzvKkVBI9Q&dl_branch=1">Daniel Caesar</a> and Jhene Aiko are in a similar lane, they're in the midst of bouncing back after a few slow year. Caesar's feature on the recent Justin Bieber hit "Peaches" is a reintroduction of Daniel Caesar to the public. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/5ZS223C6JyBfXasXxrRqOk?si=oKxScUCwSAKw4TF8L4IBjw&dl_branch=1">Aiko</a> needs another hit the size of "Post to Be" - her recent hit "B.S." with H.E.R came close! <h3>Rising Talent </h3>This category of R&B artists consists of singers on the verge of breaking into the mainstream:Ragz Originale. Jamila Woods, Dizzy Fae, Michael From the East, Dee Gatti, Tora-i, Zeek Burse, Halima and RMR. The most prominent and recognizable name on this list is <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/4UodukR17NIQfNu5uaqm9B">Jamila Woods</a>, who burst on the scene with her song LSD featuring Chance the Rapper. Woods came out of the gate strong with her album HEAVN in 2017, but did not find similar success with her 2019 album LEGACY! LEGACY!. Woods’s next album will likely catapult her into stardom, she has the talent and she’s made that apparent - but she’s a hit song away. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/0yw2O9rh7YQd5MqEHOFGzW">Ragz Orinale</a> and Tora-i both represent a younger set of the emerging UK R&B scene, mentioned above. Ragz Originale was a producer for the rapper Skepta who has created a solo-career for himself, and <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/4oJsWKOJCNMfUbIpR2jk8Z">Tora-i</a>’s hit “Call Your Name” has achieved commercial success in America. In a similar vein is R&B singer <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/3bSZmhmZ0bWMkMl37DK5ap">Halima</a>, who is a “New Jersey Born, London and Lagos-bred, New York based producer/artist” according to her website. Halima’s career is picking up steam with popular tracks such as “Ford Cardinal” and “Holding Me.”<a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/55nF1IVzx7JDsELhSQiPu4">Michael From the East,</a> a Harlem-based vocalist is a local artist for WBLS listeners to look out for. His songs “That’s It,” “Belong,” and “Just” are on a trajectory to hit one million views in the coming months. Not far from New York is Philadelphia-based singer <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/6tyZ5doMivDXVyNdQyHZ6">Zeek Burse</a>, who’s a standout talent in Philly’s music scene. Burse has performed at music festivals and is one of a number of gems waiting to be discovered. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/7w8xMJxmzaZeeHRV8eToLT">Dee Gatti</a> also falls into the category of a gem needing to be discovered. Gatti has a soothing voice that’s unique to the current batch of upcoming talent. Her voice is reminiscent of The Dream.One artist with a tremendous amount of star potential is <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/0jt1EsJCeoQXLNDta4JF6c">Dizzy Fae</a>. Fae is one of the most interesting artists making music, her funky music that borders on rap, disco, and R&B. Aesthetically there are few artists more interesting than Dizzy Fae. The only artist on this list who is as aesthetically captivating as Dizzy Fae is RMR. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/0j1Pwmd6nuk0BXD1RqoHDw">RMR</a> is a masked man, whose identity is largely unknown, if you watch his music videos - you’d see pistols and men in ski masks; but if you listen to his music - you’ll hear Sean Kingston over trap beats. R&B in 2021 is a soulful genre-bending mix of singers who have been heavily influenced by the artists they love. There is no need to pick a lane, when so many artists are paving new lanes for themselves everyday. R&B is not dead, as a matter of fact, R&B is alive and well - it just feels different in a world that’s evolving day by day.

R&B Is Still Alive! Meet Some Of The Biggest Millennial R&B Artists To Watch

Following the success of Verzuz battle featuring producer Teddy Riley and Babyface, we are being gifted with an additional treat. Babyface promised his fans that he is going to break down all the songs he wrote and produced for the classic film Waiting to Exhale: Original Soundtrack Album to celebrate Mother’s Day on May 9. However, it was postponed due to the passing of music mogul Andre Harrell. He took some time to grieve his dear friend.On May 19th, Babyface took to social media to announce that he is back with a new date. His listening party is now scheduled for this coming Sunday on May 24th at 8 p.m. ET. He shared a funny video on how to write a song for the one and only Toni Braxton. Take a look below:

Yesssss!! Babyface Announces New Date For “Waiting to Exhale” Soundtrack Listening Party

Fans from all over are grieving the loss of music mogul Andre Harrell. He passed away on May 7th due to heart complications.Kenny ‘Babyface’ Edmonds who was supposed to do a Mother’s Day special on Instagram Live ended up postponing out of respect for his dear friend. The singer/producer didn’t feel that he can give his fans 100% percent at this time and it wouldn’t be fair.In the clip, he says:“It is with great sadness that I would like to make an announcement today. Due to the passing of a very dear friend of mine, we will have to postpone the Waiting to Exhale Mother’s Day special tomorrow, whereas at first, I thought I could handle it, I’m now realizing there’s no way I couldn’t get through this at 100% and honestly, that just wouldn’t be fair to all of you. It will be scheduled at a later date, but for now, I would like to wish all the mothers a very happy Mother’s Day. Please continue to stay safe.”Babyface also shared a song in honor of the late Andre Harrell.“To my dear friend, Andre Harrell and his family, it’s so hard to put into words how I feel so I wrote this song for you Dre…I love you man and I’ll miss you.”Take a listen below:<blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/tv/B__U7IPJOym/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> View this post on Instagram <a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/B__U7IPJOym/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">My Tribute to a dear friends @andreharrell</a><p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" href="https://www.instagram.com/babyface/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> Kenny Edmonds</a> (@babyface) on May 9, 2020 at 7:03pm PDT</blockquote>

Babyface Dedicated Song For His Late Friend Andre Harrell

Although Michelle Obama will not be Joe Biden’s running mate as Vice President, she’ll be helping out in a big way. Former FLOTUS will be teaming up with music legends Babyface and Teddy Riley to get folks to vote in the upcoming elections. Titled Babyface VS Teddy Riley Voter Registration Challenge, the news was shared on IG.“We know you had a lot to say about the #TeddyvsBabyface battle Monday night. But if you want your voice heard, you have to register and vote in every election. @babyface and I are teaming up with @MichelleObama and @WhenWeAllVote”The partnership will involve non-profit organization ‘When We All Vote,’ which educates the importance of voting. With the internet-breaking Verzuz battle between Babyface and Teddy, the mission is to have the same impact.<blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B_VnINjpX40/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> View this post on Instagram <a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B_VnINjpX40/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">We know you had a lot to say about the #TeddyvsBabyface battle Monday night. But if you really want your voice heard, you have to register and vote in every election. @babyface and I are teaming up with @MichelleObama and @WhenWeAllVote. Register today at www.whenweallvote.org/teddyvsbabyface</a><p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" href="https://www.instagram.com/teddyriley1/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> Teddy Riley</a> (@teddyriley1) on Apr 23, 2020 at 2:00pm PDT</blockquote>