Can We Talk RnB? Podcast

This week on "Can We Talk R&B" Will Gittens takes us on a journey!  The internet's favorite cover artist and hitmaker for stars like Chris Brown, Trey Songz, Tank, Josh Levi, Bridget Kelly, and more share his secrets to viral success! Learn how he captivated millions, discover his viral formula songwriting techniques, and how he navigated industry scams. Dive deep into music, motivation, and overcoming challenges. You don't want to miss this one!

0:00 - 1:34  Intro

1:34 - 3:35 What got you into R&B? 

3:35 - 5:44  Moving to Nashville from Trinidad

5:44 - 7:15 Have you found a Trinidad community in Nashville?

7:15 - 9:13 How was the transition to LA? 

9:13 - 10:20  Pursuing music in LA  

10:20 - 14:50 Navigating the Industry 

14:50 - 16:10 How did you grow your social media following? 

16:10 - 19:34 What was your formula for socials?

19:34 - 19:58  Performing and live shows

19:58 - 20:40 Making money on streaming platforms 

20:40 - 21:58 Touring independently

21:58 - 23:00 Understanding the digital marketing and promoting 

23:00 - 24:05 Labels aren’t bad  

24:05 - 26:30 Being constantly determined to grind 

26:30 - 28:53 Do you thing going viral is sustainable? 

28:53 - 30:47 Creating music to find the hit 

30:47 - 32:35 Writing 350 songs in a year 

32:35 - 33:32 Deep Dive: Say the Word 

33:32 -  35:30 Where do you see yourself in 10 years? 

35:30 - 36:46 The desire to change the industry 

36:46 - 37:40 Closing 

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

Shot and Edited by: Lazy Pickle Studios

On this episode of Can We Talk R&B, Ian welcomes LA Native 2x Grammy Nominated Singer/Songwriter KENYON DIXON on the show. Kenyon talks about his upbringing in the Church. Linking up with Tyrese early in his career for songwriting for artists like Tyrese, TGT, and later Justin Timberlake. Kenyon also talks about background singing for artists like Tyrese, Justin Timberlake, Ledisi, Kirk Franklin, Pharrell Williams, Usher, Brandy, Jill Scott, and Nick Jonas. His move from background vocals and focus on your solo career. His rise as an independent artist and experience working with Kanye West on “Ultralight Beam '' and contribution to R&B.  

0:00 - 3:10 Intro

3:10 - 5:44 Tell us about your upbringing 

5:44 - 6:55 Being from Watts, CA

6:55 - 8:25 Working with Tyrese early on 

8:25 - 9:05 Open Invitation album

9:05 - 10:39 Performing at the Grammys 

10:39 - 13:30  How did your transition from Gospel to R&B

13:30 - 14:10 Mothers first show  

14:10 - 15:36 The difference between TGT and Justin Timberlake

15:36 - 16:55 Working with various artists and their styles

16:55 - 17:07 Touring with Kirk

17:07 - 17:50 Touring Jill Scott

17:50 - 18:49 Most valuable lesson from working with artists

18:49 - 20:35 What made you decide to go solo? 

20:35 - 23:00  The balance of recording and touring with artists

23:00 - 24:23 Preparing for solo career on tour with other artists

24:23 - 26:15  Did the opportunities lead to writing?

26:15 - 29:15  R&B independent artists  

29:15 - 30:36 Do you ever think about majors? 

30:36 - 33:02  The shift from Majors to Indie

33:02 - 36:36  What are your roles in being independent 

35:36 - 37:00  Depending on your team 

37:00 - 40:44 Background vocals on Ultralight Beam

40:44 - 41:42  The Life of Pablo album

41:42 - 43:33 Which singers worked on Ultralight Beam? 

43:33 -  47:12 The R&B You Love 

47:12 -  52:26 Deep Dive: 2000s R&B

52:26 - 54:29  RL and Next

54:29 - 55:15 Being able to tap into the 90s feel 

55:15 - 57:30 Hot Topics: Advocate for the 2000s R&B

57:30 - 58:27  90s to 2000s Artists

58:27 - 59:00  Neyo - So Sick 

59:00 - 1:00:44 Cultural moments that elevated R&B in 2000s

1:00:44 - 1:05:15 Songs Usher should perform at the Super Bowl

1:05:15 - 1:05:54 Closing 

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

Shot and Edited by: Lazy Pickle Studios

This week, Can We Talk R&B welcomes a true icon: Multi-Platinum Selling/ Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, dancer, and all-around powerhouse Mya! Get ready for a deep dive into the evolution of R&B, from Mya's early days to the current landscape. Mya reflects on the 25th anniversary of her iconic self-titled album, ‘Mya’. She shares the keys to navigating the music industry, and the exciting new music she is gearing up to release without the major label backing.  Mya also shares her thoughts on the changing musical climate, the pressures of maintaining a social media presence, and the secrets to staying relevant in the game. Plus, you won't want to miss her insider stories about legendary moments with Michael Jackson and Prince!

This is more than just an interview - it's a conversation with a legend who continues to inspire. Don't miss Can We Talk R&B with Mya, a celebration of artistry, resilience, and the enduring power of R&B!

0:00 - 3:00 Intro

3:00 - 4:35 What got you into music?  

4:35 - 5:10 Why R&B? 

5:10 - 6:20 Where are you pulling from when writing? 

6:20 - 7:00 Growing up in the Church

7:00 - 9:00  How does impacting people through music make you feel?

9:00 - 10:50 Being in an era where music has gone digital 

10:50 - 12:29 Digital versus physical album copies 

12:29 - 15:30  How do you feel about major labels vs being independent 

15:30 - 16:00 Being R&B on a Hiphop/Rock label

16:00 - 17:55 What was that experience like? 

17:55 - 19:20 How important is your team, being independent? 

19:20 - 21:20 Do you think about how your career has changed? 

21:20 - 21:40 Can you talk about some humbling experience throughout your career? 

21:40 - 22:58 Getting a phone call from Michael Jackson

22:58 - 23:40 Having empowering conversations with music icons 

23:40 - 25:40 What was it like for Prince to be a mentor to you? 

25:40 - 26:21 Prince at Essence Festival

26:21 - 28:18  What are some things that you are most proud of?

28:18 - 29:12 Do you still love it? 

29:12 - 29:54  Reflecting on your younger self  

29:54 - 31:08 Do you have artist that reach out to you?

31:08 - 34:31 How has the business changing affected you? 

34:31 - 35:30 Streaming platforms and selling numbers  

35:30 - 36:30  What is your experience like touring? 

36:30 - 37:22 Taking care of self while being a touring artist

37:22 - 38:24 Girls Dem Sugar with Beanie Man and Lie Detector 

38:24 - 39:30 What can we expect in the future? 

39:30 - 39:53 Any cool collaborations coming up? 

39:53 - 41:52 Who inspires you right now in music?

42:52 - 43:50 Why did you decide to be on a vegan diet? 

43:50 - 45:40  How long have you been vegan? 

45:40 - 47:04  When can we expect the new project? 

47:04 - 49:29 Being an artist for 25 years 

49:29 - 49:47 End 

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

Shot and Edited by: Lazy Pickle Studios

On this episode of Can We Talk R&B, Ian Von welcomes Singer/ Songwriter, Kevin Ross. Kevin Ross talks about his upbringing in DC, falling in love with music, musical influences, and career building. He recalls a pivotal time in his career touring with Neyo and Maxwell. Kevin also explains why he left the major label and how he went viral, reaching over 100M+ views on his videos throughout the pandemic, plus so much more. You don't want to miss this episode.

0:00 - 2:45 Intro

2:45 - 5:00 Being from Dc 

5:00 - 6:03 90s era of music

6:03 - 7:20 Music adapting new sounds

7:20 - 8:55 Musicianship  

8:55 - 12:10 When did you decide to pursue music

12:10 - 13:15 Spending time on music 

13:15 - 14:00 Learning how to use recording machines

14:00 - 16:20 What inspired you to make videos? 

16:20 - 18:35 Adding mixing and mashups

18:35 - 20:00 Reaching 100M views

20:00 - 21:50 Motown’s writing camp

21:50 - 23:00 Being isolated

23:00 - 23:40 The development phase

23:40 - 24:27 Touring with Maxwell and Neyo

24:27 - 26:13 Ponder on artistry

26:13 - 27:27 How did touring with Maxwell and Neyo happen

27:27 - 28:33 Understanding the vision

28:33 - 30:00 Deciding to leave the label

30:00 - 31:00 Talking with the label

31:00 - 32:08 Going independent

32:08 - 33:22 Benefits of an independent artist

33:22 - 34:12 Having a good team

34:12 - 35:01 Using resources to be successful as an independent Artist 

 35:01 - 36:33 Telling the story in music

36:33 - 37:53 Transitioning throughout the project

37:53 - 38:58 Exploring in Songwriting

38:57 - 41:06 Artists telling stories in music

41:06 - 42:58 Being able to have longevity

42:58 - 43:54 Dream Collab

43:54 - 44:53 Kenyon Dixon collaboration

44:53 - 46:20 Where does the freedom to express yourself in your music come from? 

46:20 - 48:30 Earth Wind & Fire vs Franky Beverly and Maze

48:30 - 50:50 The cultural impact of the bands

50:50 - 57:15 Deep Dive - God is a Genius

57:15 - 1:03:30 Top 5 R&B Songs Written

1:03:30 - 1:07:00 R&B being on the rise

1:07:00 - 1:07:50  Check out the Patreon

1:07:50 - 1:08:02 Ending

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

Edited by: Lazy Pickle Studios

On this week's episode, Ian Von welcomes Grammy nominated, Samoht on Can We Talk R&B. The Rising Singer/Songwritter talks about his new album ‘Amore’, his upbringing in The South, the story behind how he discovered he was Grammy Nominated and opens up about a dark period in his life. You don't want to miss this!!

0:00 - 3:00 Intro 

3:00 - 4:45 What was the inspiration behind this project?

4:45 - 5:44 Growing up in North Carolina

5:44 - 6:52 Having a Church background

6:52 - 8:10 Singing in chorus

8:10 - 9:22 When did you fall in love with R&B

9:22 - 10:50 Gospel Influences

10:50 - 11:28 Contemplating on releasing music

11:28 - 12:30 Who worked on this project with you

12:30 - 13:55 What’s missing in R&B

13:55 - 15:10 Sangers vs Singers in R&B

15:10 - 16:20 Better record

16:20 - 18:40 R&B Male Vocalists

18:40 - 20:57 How do you compare R&B male vocalists to Gospel

20:57 - 22:00 Working with Pj Morton

22:00 - 22:20 Finding out about the nomination

22:20 -23:05 Pj Morton’s artistry

23:05 - 23:50 Struggles of an independent artist

23:50 - 24:37 Having to work harder

24:37 - 26:00 How important is your team

26:00 - 26:23 Pushing through struggle for success

26:23 - 27:35 Process of creating a project

27:35 - 29:22 Fashion in R&B music

29:22 - 31:38 Signature fashion

31:38 - 35:55 Deep Dive - Shine On

35:55 - 37:11 Working with Luke James

37:11 - 40:32 Respect the Pen Game - Moonlight

40:32 - 42:10 R&B losing its romantic feel 

42:10 - 44:08 Sitting with the new album 

44:08 - 46:17 New Artist you’re listening to

46:17 - 47:59 Top 5 Favorite R&B Singers 

47:59 - 49:26 What’s next following this album

49:26 - 52:20 Vocal range and strength 

52:20 - 52:52 End

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

Edited by: Lazy Pickle Studios

On this week's episode, R&B duo, THEY. joined Ian Von on Can We Talk R&B to discuss touring with Bryson Tiller on the Trapsoul Tour, as well as their music influences and leaving major labels and becoming  independent artists. You don't want to miss this episode!!

Intro: 0:00 - 3:30

Experimenting with R&B: 3:30 - 5:49

Why did y’all choose to create R&B? 5:49 - 8:06

Producer and artist team: 8:06 - 10:58

Boy band influences: 10:58 - 11:41

Jumping onto the Bryson Tour: 11:41 - 13:58

Bryson Tiller’s impact: 13:58 - 14:45

inspirations in your music: 14:45 - 16:08

No rules in creativity: 16:08 - 17:55

Just Contribute: 17:55 - 19:13

Spotify’s data: 19:13 - 20:53

R&B groups: 20:53 - 21:17 

The authenticity in r&b: 21:17 - 22:25

What’s your musical background: 22:25 - 25:03

Learning from Brian Kennedy: 25:03 - 25:50

Playing instruments: 25:50 - 27:17

Deciding to be independent: 27:17 - 28:46

Major labels vs being independent: 28:46 - 30:36

Art is Subjective: 30:36 - 33:05

Deep Dive - Blu Moon: 33:05 - 37:60

Why no sampling: 37:60 - 39:50

Using resources to create the same feel: 39:50 - 42:41 

Are you listening to current R&B? 42:41 - 44:40

What’s lacking in R&B: 44:40 - 45:50

The new style of R&B: 45:50 - 47:35

Gate keeping in R&B playlists: 47:35 - 48:42

Upbeat R&B songs: 48:42 - 49:55

Top five favorite R&B songs: 49:55 - 56:02

Musiq Soulchild: 56:02 - 58:15

Respect The Pen: 58:15 - 1:05:40

New Tour? 1:05:40 - 1:06:45

Ending: 1:06:45 - 1:07:24

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

Edited by: Lazy Pickle Studios

On this episode of Can We Talk R&B, Ian Von welcomes 7x Grammy Nominated Singer/Songwriter, BJ the Chicago Kid. BJ’s reflects on his upbringing in Chicago, the Gumbo pot of varying music genres that has shaped his ear to create timeless R&B music. Having a wide vocal range and musical knowledge has allowed BJ to work with artists like Kendrick Lamar, Schoolboy Q, Chance The Rapper, Offset and more. BJ addresses the “R&B is dead” conversation while advocating for the amazing decades the genre has had and shedding light on the dominating artist in the genre today. He also talks about what we can expect from his new album, "Gravy". You don’t want to miss this episode!!! 

Intro: 0:00 - 4:00

Growing up in Chicago: 4:00  - 5:03

“The cross and the corner”: 5:03 - 7:10

The Bj Chicago Kid Sound: 7:10 - 8:26

Which artist inspires you: 8:26 - 10:40

Being able to create a lane: 10:40 - 12:25

Working with Hip Hop artist: 12:25 - 12:55

Creating and producing music with vocals: 12:55- 13:54

The decline of Hip Hop’s charting: 13:54 - 17:35

Being a Passionate artist: 17:35- 18:10

Live Shows: 18:40 - 20:45 

Roadblocks in your career: 20:45 - 24:00

Revolt performance: 24:00 - 24:48

Being too  musical: 24:48 - 26:04

Heartbreaking the game: 26:04 - 27:55

What keeps you motivated? 27:55 - 30:50

New Album - Gravy: 30:50 - 31:51 

Phillip Bailey: 31:51 - 34:08

Being determined to get the yes: 34:08 - 34:50

“R&B is not Dead” : 34:50 - 37:21

Creating an R&B experience musically: 37:21 - 38:20

Jazmine Sullivan and Brandy: 38:20 - 39:04

How do you rank yourself: 39:04 - 40:50

 Deep Dive - Turning me up: 40:50 - 44:41

How do you translate the vibe to melody: 44:41 - 45:32

Best Decade for R&B Music: 45:32 - 47:18 

Never Shoulda let you go: 47:18 - 47:54

90s R&B: 47:54 - 49:06

Missy Elliot: 49:06 - 50: 50

Black Culture in Music: 50:50 - 52:02

Respect the Pen Game - Church: 52:02 -53:03

Marvin Winans: 53:03 - 55:46

Detroit music culture: 55:45 -56:18

Six Months: 56:18 - 57:37

The ability to be timeless: 57:37 - 58:30

Songwriters and Producers: 58:30 - 1:00:11

The Underdogs: 1:00:11 - 1:01:58

New Male R&B Artists: 1:01:58 - 1:02:58

New Orleans: 1:02:58 - 1:03:18

What are you working on: 1:03:18 - 1:10:14

Closing: 1:10:14 - 1:11:06

Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

Edited by: Lazy Pickle Studios

On this week's episode of Can We Talk R&B, Ian Von welcomes Singer and Songwriter, Phabo. The R&B star chats through his career and music. Phabo Talks quitting his job to write for Kehlani. He discusses Gospel artists who have influenced his music, and takes us on a journey through his lineage and new album "Don't Get To Cozy", his experiences on tour with Kiana Lede, and writing for Khelani, Eric Bellinger and more. 

Intro: 0:00 - 6:00

Where are you from? 6:00 - 9:20

Being inspired by gospel vocalist: 9:20 - 11:50

R&B missing gospel music: 11:50 - 13:17

Soul Music having Gospel influences: 13:17 - 14:07

Songwriting Process: 14:07 - 15:21

How did you get into the music business: 15:21 - 20:10

Working with Mario: 20:10 - 20:40

What is the feeling of your music being received? 20:40 - 24:00

Working with Kehlani: 24:00 - 28:45

Respect the Pen Game: 28:45 -30:25

Don’t Get Too Cozy writing style: 30:25 - 31:37

Being inspired by Jonathan Butler: 31:37 - 35:00

Learning lessons through the Journey: 35:00 - 37:04

Working with Troy Taylor: 37:04 - 41:40

Recording with Troy: 41:40 - 43:10

The Love Songs record : 43:10 - 44:10

The visibility of R&B music: 44:10 - 48:36

Viral moments and visibility: 48:36 - 50:00

The need for artist development: 50:00 - 53:03 

Platforms for R&B Artist: 53:03 - 55:28

The importance of R&B conversations: 55:28 - 56:00

Current artists on the playlist: 56:00 - 57:37

Surprising artist in the playlist: 57:37 - 59:10

Gatekepept artist: 59:10 - 1:00:40

Growth in R&B Production: 1:00:40 1:02:15

Tour Stories: 1:02:15 - 1:06:20

Vulnerability of Artist: 1:06:20 - 1:08:43

Egos in artist peer relationship: 1:08:43 - 1:11:02

Learning from other artist: 1:11:02 - 1:13:10

Honing in on artistry:  1:13:10 - 1:15:39

Ending: 1:15:39 - 1:16:18

Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

Edited by: Lazy Pickle Studios

On this week's episode of Can We Talk R&B, we have a first, an Academy and Grammy Award Winning  Singer and Songwriter, Tiara Thomas. Tiara reflects on her 10 year journey in the music business -- she talks crossing paths with Wale and the backstory to their 3x Platinum song, "Bad" as well as her Pioneering the R&B sub genre, dark R&B. 

Tiara provides insight on the current state of R&B, her love for all things 90s R&B and her songwriting journey including penning Grammy nominated song, "Good Morning Gorgeous" for Mary J Blige and  H.E.R.'s songs "Slide", "We Made It", "Damage"and more. Tiara also talks about receiving a Golden Globe nomination and winning a Grammy Award and an Academy Award for Best Original Song, for co-writing the song "Fight for You", from Judas and the Black Messiah with H.E.R.  Tiara talks about parting ways with Interscope Records, and her venture back into her artistry with her new song with Tone  Stith "Hit You Right Back"...Plus much more you don't want to miss this one!

Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB

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Hosted & Created by: Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

Edited by: Lazy Pickle Studios

In this week's episode of Can We Talk R&B, Ian Von welcomes musical GENIUS Singer/Songwriter/ Producer, Rico Love. Rico Love production and songwriting has landed him hits with Beyoncé, Usher, Kelly Rowland, Mary J Blige, Chris Brown, Trey Songz, Mario, just to name a few.

Rico reflects on early beginnings as a rapper, and getting his big break working with the Corna Boyz, writing "Throwback" for Usher, how he turned the opportunity to building an iconic music career. Rico also opens up about the true meaning behind Usher's hit single "There Goes My Baby" as well as his music career  as a recording artist and lessons he's learned along the way as an executive and founder of record label, Division 1. He also gave his thoughts on the current state of R&B. You don’t want to miss this episode!!! Turn The Lights On!!

Intro: 0:00 - 3:05

What got you into r&b? 3:05 - 4:00

Being from New Orleans: 4:00 - 5:27

Attending FAMU to peruse music: 5:27 - 8:00

Opportunities being presented through college: 8:00 - How did you get into the business: 9:50 - 11:18

How did you get to Jagged Edge? 11:18 - 13:00

Advice for college students wanting to peruse music: 13:00 - 15:00

Taking advantage of opportunities: 15:00 - 17:30

Getting to usher from opportunity: 17:30 - 18:40

Remaining consistent early on : 18:40 - 20:38

Throwback with Usher: 20:38 - 22:30

Confessions and 8701: 22:30 - 23:17 

Growing with Usher in his artistry: 23:17 - 25:40

Division One: 25:40 - 27:35

Why aren’t there many R&B artist executives: 27:35 - 30:42

The Hip Hop business mindset: 30:42 - 32:08

Sacrifices of a Business Manager: 32:08 - 34:20

What lessons have you learned: 34:20 - 36:19

Understanding artistry: 36:19 - 37:42

R&B artists in fashion: 37:42 - 42:02

The Drake Effect: 42:02 - 43:36

Usher at The Super Bowl: 43:36 - 45:40

Top 5 R&B Veteran Records: 45:40 - 46:30

R&B inspiring Song of the last ten years: 46:30 - 48:11

R&B Kings: 48:11 - 49:16 

Deep Dive There Goes My Baby: 49:16 - 52:36

Respect the Pen Game: 52:36 - 55:45

Male R&B artist: 55:45 - 57:06

Jermaine Dupri’s impact in R&B: 57:06 - 58:07

Producers who aren’t singers: 58:07 - 59:00

Diddy in R&b: 59:00 - 1:01:26

What are you working on now? 1:01:26 - 1:04:46

Outro: 1:04:46 - 1:05:23

Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB

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Hosted & Created by: Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

Edited by: Lazy Pickle Studios

On this episode of Can We Talk R&B, Ian Von welcomes Grammy Winning Super producer, Dre Harris to Can We Talk R&B. Dre was a part of the legendary production duo Dre and Vidal. Dre talks about how growing up in Philly influenced his love for R&B music and producing records. Growing up in  church taught him to play multiple instruments and allowed him to play for R&B groups. how poetry helped him get discovered and get his start in the music industry. Dre talks about his placements with Jill Scott, Usher, Chris Brown and working with Michael Jackson. You don’t want to miss this episode!!!!!

Intro: 0:00 - 3:03

Being from Philly: 3:03 - 6:13

What made you fall in love with R&B? 6:13 - 7:15

Gospel influences in R&B: 7:15 - 10:15

What instruments do you play? 10:15 - 11:11

Getting into the music business: 11:11 - 14:10

R&B music in Philly: 14:10 - 15:16

The Neosoul wave in music: 15:16 - 17:40

the R&B sound during the 90s: 17:40 - 18:43

Being a well rounded producer: 18:43 - 20:27

How does the production start? 20:27 -  21:30

Timbaland’s production: 21:30 - 23:07

Were you aware of your impact: 23:07 - 25:50

What was your check looking like: 25:50 - 26:50

Publishing deal: 26:50 - 28:12

Deciding to sell publishing: 28:12 - 31:04

Maintaining success in the business: 31:04 - 34:20

Biggest changes in R&B today: 34:20 - 37:24

Deep Dive “Butterflies”: 37:24 - 47:40

 R&B Favorite Songs: 47:40 - 50:00 

Usher’s Confessions album: 50:50 - 53: 11

Respect the Pen Game:  53:11 - 56:52

“Stars” by Kendrick: 56:52 - 58:08

New Music coming out: 58:08 - 1:02:15

Outro: 1:02:15 - 1:02:53

🟪Can We Talk R&B 🟪🔊

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

Edited by: Lazy Pickle Studios

On this episode of Can We Talk R&B, Ian Von welcomes Singer/Songwriter Kameron Corvet to Can We Talk R&B. Kameron Corvet discusses how his early influences of Pop and Hip Hop encouraged him to become an independent R&B artist. Growing up around a musical family allowed him to learn about legends such as Michael Jackson, Prince, and  Stevie Wonder which inspired him to write music. After having a record placed with Sting which then led to winning his first Grammy award, Kameron was exposed to the business side of being a musician in a different way. He shares how to navigate as an independent artist and important tools he’s picked up throughout the course of his career.  You don’t want to miss this episode!!!!!!

Time Stamps: 

Intro: 0:00 - 3:20

How growing up in Baton Rouge inspired a career in music : 3:20 - 6:10

Growing up with Pop Influences: 6:10 - 9:15

Moving to Cincinnati from Baton Rouge: 9:15 - 11:45

What inspired you to write “Going Under:” 11:45 - 17:00

“You with Me” record: 17:00 - 20:25

How do you approach your records: 20:25 - 23:55

Creating a setlist when performing live: 23:55 - 25:10

Working with Sting : 25:10 - 28:00 

Navigating as an Indie artist: 28:00 - 29:00

Placing the song with Sting: 29:00 - 31:34

The rollout process of releasing the song: 31:34 - 33:35

Having a huge placement like Sting: 33:35 - 37:00

What’s next, What new music are you working on? 37:00 - 38:00

Changing the landscape of music: 38:00 - 41:00

Learning the business of an indie artist: 41:00 - 42:50

Favorite artist right now: 42:50 - 44:50

Longevity in the genre of r&b: 44:50 - 47:40

Bruno Mars’ Artistry: 47:40 - 48:46

Encouraging New Artists: 48:46 - 49:43

Wrap Up: 49:43 -50:10

🟪Can We Talk R&B 🟪🔊

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

Edited by: Lazy Pickle Studios

On this episode of Can We Talk R&B we have Brian Alexander Morgan on to discuss his early beginnings as a solo artist, to meeting and creating SWV's ICONIC sound, reflecting on his legacy and the music business. 

Intro: 0:00 - 3:40

the distinction between SWV & Destiny’s Child: 3:40 - 5:27

When did you fall in love with R&B: 5:27 - 8:07

Being influenced by Gospel : 8:07 - 11:50

When did you decide to pursue music? 11:50 - 15:30

Being from the Tree : 15:30 - 17:15

Moving from Kansas to Sacramento: 17:15 - 22:22

Singing with Stevie Wonder: 22:22 - 26:00

Being dropped from Warner: 26:00 - 27:14

How did you get to SWV: 27:14 - 30:09

Developing with Coko’s voice : 30:09 -  34:06

The First Album: 34:06 - 35:10

First Paycheck: 35:10 - 36:50

Deep Dive “Weak” By SWV: 36:50 - 40:00

Having a Legendary catalog: 40:00  - 43:10

Respect the Pen Game - “Rain” : 43:10 - 50:19

“New Beginnings”: 50:19 - 51:50

Working with Brandy: 51:50 - 53:50

Recording Rain with Coko: 53:50 - 55:40 

What broke your heart in R&B: 55:40 - 57:20

Labels taking advantage of Artists/Writers: 57:20 - 58:30

How streaming effects success of records: 58:30 - 1:00:19

Thoughts on Diddy giving artist their publishing: 1:00:19 - 1:01:48

Independent artist today: 1:01:48 - 1:03:48

Selling Masters: 1:03:48 - 1:05:00

Building a Studio from it : 1:05:00 - 1:06:00

R&B Hot Takes: Who has had the biggest impact on R&B: 1:06:00 - 1:09:38

Why is R&B the best genre? 1:09:38 - 1:11:15

Top 5 Female R&B Vocalists: 1:11:15 - 1:13:45

Top 5 R&B artists from the past few years: 1:13:45 - 1:15:45

Outro: 1:15:45 - 17:07

🟪Can We Talk R&B 🟪🔊

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

Edited by: Lazy Pickle Studios

On this week's episode of Can We Talk R&B, we have a legend on the show!!! Slim is a contemporary R&B singer best known as the frontman for the legendary R&B group, 112. With successes like “Only You,” “Anywhere,” and the Grammy Award-nominated tune “Peaches & Cream,” they achieved a lot of success in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Slim Looks Back on 112's early fame, ranking 112 albums, working with Diddy and why the group split and more. 

Introduction: 0:00 - 2:35

The Beginning of 112: 2:35 - 4:30 

Journey to being in the music business: 4:30 - 7:40

Being introduced to Diddy: 7:40 - 9:00

Navigating the sound of the Group: 9:00 - 11:58

The Culture of Bad Boy Records: 11:58 - 15:42

“Only You” - 15:42 - 16:30

112’s X Factor: 16:30 - 18:40

Adapting and Adjusting the group dynamic: 18:40 - 20:55

Being produced by Tim and Bob: 20:55 - 22:15

Working with Boys to Men: 22:15 - 24:50

King of the Interlude: 24:50 - 29:10

Bad Boy being a dominant r&b label: 29:10 - 31:40

The second album with Poo Bear: 31:40 - 35:35

Progressing the sound of the second album: 35:35 - 37:50

“Anywhere” - 37:50 - 40:05

Working with Diane Warren: 40:05 - 40:55

8Ball &  MJG: 40:55 - 42:00

Pop groups competing against R&B Groups: 42:00 - 47:00

Performing overseas: 47:00 - 50:00

Jagged Edge: 50:00 - 52:50

Will groups come back? 52:50 - 54:00

What happened to the original 112: 54:00 - 59:14

🟪Can We Talk R&B 🟪🔊

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

Edited by: Lazy Pickle Studios

#rnb #rnbmusic #112 #slim #slimof112 #randbmusic #90srnb #rnbgroup #rnbmix #music #Rnb #Trending #songwriter #producer #canwetalk #rnbpodcast #canwetalkrnb #ianvon

On this episode of Can We Talk R&B, Ian Von welcomes New Orleans' Singer/Songwriter V Script to Can We Talk R&B. V talks about his love for R&B music started through his dad playing vinyl records from legends like Rick James, Marvin Gaye, Isley Brothers, Stevie Wonder, his aspirations to become a choreographer, how poetry helped him get discovered and getting his start in the music industry. V Script recalls his first placement with Tamar Braxton which was a pivotal point for him while he was working a sales job at T-Mobile. He also talks about placements with Chris Brown, Eric Bellinger, Dani Leigh, Coco Jones, Ty Dolla $ign and working alongside Rodney Jerkins. You don’t want to miss this episode!!!!!

Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB

“How VScript became songwriter”: 5:30 - 7:20

“Nobody” by Rance Davis: 7:20 - 8:30

Learning how to place records: 8:30 - 11:12

Having a record placed with Tamar - 11:12 - 14:05

First Check: 14:05 - 15:05

Working with various artist: 15:05 - 16:40

Being Introduced to Darkchild: 16:40 - 19:46

Signing with Darkchild: 19:46 - 20:17

“Exhausted” by H.E.R. : 20:17 - 20:48

Publishing deal with Rodney Jerkins: 20:48 - 22:20

Eric Bellinger writing camp for New Light: 22:20 -  24:13

What keeps you motivated? 24:13 - 26:15

Deep Dive: The Making of Chris Brown “C.A.B. (Catch A Body)” : 26:15 - 28:10

The State of R&B:  28:10 - 31:50

The Role of Reality TV in music : 31:50 - 34:30

Changes in the sound of genres: 34:30 - 34:55

R&B to Hip Hop: 34:55 - 36:40

How Mainstreaming effects R&B: 36:40 - 40:05

R&B’s Identity Crisis: 40:05 - 42:52

The next wave of R&B: 42:52 - 43:47

SZA’s “Snooze” Record: 43:47 - 44:52

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

Edited by: Lazy Pickle Studios

On this episode of Can We Talk R&B, Ian Von welcomes Grammy Winning / Multi-Platinum Producer Keyz to Can We Talk R&B. Keyz talks about his upbringing in Buffalo, NY, mastering music in Church, moving to ATL, and  getting his start in the music industry. Keyz recalls his first placement with Omarion which was a turning point for him in his career. He also talks about placements with Chris Brown, Bryson Tiller and many more. Keyz also shares his business investments he's made with his music capital. He has invested in gold, real estate and a restaurant. You don’t want to miss this episode!!!!!

INTRO 0:00 - 2:38

WHY R&B? 2:39 - 5:30

Staring out producing 5:30 - 7:00

What got you into the music business: 7:00 - 10:27

Beat Makers vs. Producers: 10:27 - 13:10

Let’s Talk - Omarion Ft. Rick Ross - 13:10 - 15:20

First Check: 15:20 - 16:00

How Samples effect the money: 16:00 - 18:02

Feeling the validation: 18:02 - 19:05

“Proof” - Chris Brown - 19:05 - 22:00

Bryson Tiller - 22:00 - 24:30

Publishing Deal: 24:30 - 25:30

Biggest R&B hit - To My Bed: 25:30 - 26:08

Pivoting/Business Investments: 26:08 - 29:20

Hustling along with music: 31:00 -37:40

Struggling Artist & Legends: 37:40 - 39:00

New Projects: 39:00 - 42:30

R&B vs. Hip Hop: 42:30 - 44:30

New Artists: 44:30 - 45:45

Contributing to music: 45:45 - End

Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

We have a 🐐 in the house!!!! On this week’s episode we have Singer / Songwriter/  multi-Platinum selling/ Three time Grammy Award-winning producer, Troy Taylor. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 Troy reflects on his start in music pursuing a solo career to pivoting to songwriting/production for the likes of Boys II Men, Color Me Badd, The Isley Brothers, Aretha Franklin, Tyrese, Trey Songz, and so many more!!!

Troy has wealth of R&B music knowledge and takes us through the journey of discovering and building Trey Songz to a multi platinum selling artist. You don’t want to miss this one!!!

Troy Taylor Timestamps:

intro: 00:00 - 2:07

Shades “Tell Me (I’ll Be Around)” vs LL Cool J “Loungin”’ 2:37- 5:32

How did you get started in R&B? 5:32 - 14:00

Mixing Engineers 14:00 - 16:58

Working with Boys II Men 16:58 - 18:50

Music Placement with “Color Me Bad” 18:50 - 23:39

Working with various artists: 23:39 - 27:09

What happened to groups? 27:13 - 29:00

Working with THEY - 29:00 - 33:00

Social Media algorithms: 33:00 - 35:40

Recording production in the Studio: 35:40 - 38:45

AD 38:45-39:45 Sneaker House

Respect the Pen Game: Tyrese “Sweet Lady”: 39:45 - 45:06

Meeting Trey Songz: 45:06 - 48:00

Teaching parts of a song: 48:00 - 50:00

Building with Trey Songz: 50:00 - 56:54

Trey Songz: 56:54 - 61:00

Trey Songz Working with Drake: 61:00 - 62:15

“Ready”: 62:15 - 63:55

Deep Dive: Trey Songz “Neighbors Know My Name”: 63:55 - 66:40

Trey Songz “Gotta Go”: 66:40 - 68:03

Neighbors: 66:40 - 69:30

Five artists for a Festival: 69:30 - 72:30

Mayor of R&B (Making Money): 72:30 - 76:13 

Streaming: 76:13 -79:00

Music Strike: 79:00 - 81:54

Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

On this episode of Can We Talk R&B, Ian Von welcomes Multi-instramentalist, Platinum producer  Dominic “Tic Toc” Bazile. Tic Toc shares his experiences working in the music industry and getting placements on Ludacris’ album Juvenile and a slew of reality tv shows the importance of sustaining yourself in the music business. He also reflects on turning to social media like Tik Tok during the pandemic to build a massive audience while highlighting classic R&B music to the masses.

Time Stamps: 

Intro: 0:00 - 8:00

First production: 8:00-12:00

Producing Hip Hop to R&B:12:00 - 13:56

What's more fulfilling? 13:56 - 16:40

Dianne Warren: 16:40 - 17:20

Produced songs: 17:20 - 20:30

Making money: 20:30 - 22:22

Sustaining yourself in music: 22:22 - 26:20

Social Media: 26:20 - 27:00

Coco covering the song: 27:00 - 30:00

Transitioning to instagram: 30:00 - 31:00

Duets on Tiktok: 31:00 - 33:00

Building on Social media: 33:00 - 36:50

Product Management: 36:50 - 39:40

Top five R&B albums: 39:40 - 44:44

Who do you consider to be R&B? 44:44 - 46:40

James Fauntleroy story: 46:40 - 49:00

Pen Game: 49:00 - 55:00

Close out: 55:00 - 55:49

Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

On this week’s episode of Can We Talk R&B, Ian Von welcomes rising star Singer/Songwriter, Tone Stith as he reflects on  his early R&B influences, the state of R&B and his inspiration behind making love songs. He also talks about working with Chris Brown to write and produce “Liquor” their collaboration on “Do I Ever” as well as working and touring with artists like H.E.R.,, August Alsina and Bryson Tiller. Tone also talks on the power of having good management guiding artists in the music business to build a successful career.

Time Stamps: 

Intro: 0:00 - 3:00

Growing up around R&B: 3:00 -  5:00

Playing instruments in church: 5:00 - 6:30

How did you fall in love with R&B: 6:30 - 7:50

Like Mike: 7:50 - 10:00

Where do you pull from: 10:00 - 11:02

Authenticity: 11:02 - 13:00

When did you get into R&B: 13:00 - 14:24

Translating inspirations to the music: 14:24 - 17:34

Writing love songs: 17:34 - 20:30

Creating Early: 20:30 - 22:12

Song/cover that helped start it: 23:00 - 23:50

Do I Ever: 23:50 - 26:33

Liquor/ Working with Chris Brown: 26:33 - 27:29

Writing records and passing them off: 27:29 - 28:34

Who are you listening to for Inspo: 28:34 - 30:29

The state of R&B: 30:30 -  33:15

The responsibility: 33:34 - 35:18

Drake: 35:18 - 36:20

Bryson Tiller: 36:20 - 37:00

Singers: 37:00 - 39:40

Deep Dive: “Girls Like You”: 39:40 - 42:50

New Projects/Touring: 42:50 - 44:00

Crazy Tour Story: 44:00 - 48:00

Management: 48:16 - 49:40

Advice for Artists: 49:40 - 52:00

Pen Game: 52:00 - 55:00

What is Artificial doing to music: 55:00 - 57:40

Ending: 57:40 - 58:05

Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

This week on Can We Talk R&B, Ian Von welcomes Singer/Songwriter and Actor, Ryan Toby. Ryan is a Grammy Nominated/ Multi-Diamond selling Songwriter. He has collaborated with Usher, Justin Bieber, Chris Brown, Mary J Blige, Luke James, Rotimi, Ro James, just to name a few. To date, Ryan is apart of more than 60 million albums sold and over 400 million streams. Ryan reflects on early beginnings in South Jersey where he connected with DJ Jazzy Jeff, his iconic role in Sister Act 2 and his music group, City High to his career as a saught after songwriter. You don’t want to miss this episode!!!!!  

Topics:

Intro: 00:00 - 1:18

Who is Ryan Toby: 1:18 - 6:20

Why Prince and Michael are iconic: 6:20 - 8:30

Starting out in music: 8:30 - 12:00

Being from South Jersey: 12:00 - 15:40

Being signed to Jazzy Jeff: 15:40 - 17:45

Pursuing  a record deal: 17:45 - 20:13

Working with various artists: 20:13 - 21:30

Maximizing talent: 21:30 - 24:10

Working with Will Smith: 24:11 -25:16 

Songwriter recognition: 25:30 - 29:30

After working with Jeff: 29:30 - 32:40

Working with Wyclef: 32:40 - 35:33

City High: 35:33 - 37:32

Leaning into writing: 37:32 - 40:40

Pivoting: 40:40 - 44:21 

Working with Usher: 44:21 - 51:00

Mario : 51:00 - 51:48 

Caught/Superstar: 51:48 - 54:00

Hit Success: 54:00 - 55:50

Usher & Justin Timberlake: 55:50 - 57:00

Male vocalists: 57:00 - 1:07:55

Favorite record worked on: 1:07:55 - 1:10:54

Writing Process: 1:11:51 - 1:14:56

New Music: 1:14:56 - 1:17:36

Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

This week on Can We Talk R&B, Ian Von welcomes Fanatic AKA Billie Lenox , Fanatic is a Grammy nominated, multi-platinum selling producer who has song placements with Michael Jackson, Beyonce, Notorious BIG, Lil Kim, Anthony Hamilton and more. Fanatic reflects on early beginnings from Greensboro, NC being discovered by Vincent Herbert and how he began to work with Puff Daddy and Bad Boy Records.  Plus much more

Topics:

Intro: 0:00 - 2:00

Whos is Fanatic: 2:00 - 5:05

Lil Kim’s Crush On you: 5:05 - 5:40

How it feels to have that song blow up: 5:40 - 7:35

Transitioning from Hiphop to R&B: 7:35 - 9:40

Being from NC: 9:40 - 12:08

First R&B record: 12:08 - 13:00

Working with Michael Jackson: 13:00 - 17:54

Publishing Deal: 18:00 - 19:30

Impact of the record: 19:30 - 20:00

The impact of Michael on music: 20:00 - 22:00

Working with Anthony Hamilton to other artists like Beyonce: 22:00 - 25:50

Getting a Beyonce placement: 25:50 - 27:00

Dealing with issues in labels: 27:00 - 28:55

Current Favorites: 28:55 - 31:30

The original R&B sound: 31:31 - 36:25

Top favorite artists: 36:25 - 45:53

What are you working on right now 45:53 - 49:59

Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

This week on Can We Talk R&B, Ian Von welcomes KC Da Producer, KC is a Grammy nominated, multi-platinum selling producer who has placements with Ty Dolla $ign, Eric Bellinger, DaniLeigh, Coco Jones, Justin Bieber, Drake, TI and more. KC reflects on early influences from Quincy Jones, Timnbaland and Teddy Riley.  KC discusses the importance of networking, working with Legendary Producer, Rodney Jerkins and how his placement with Justin Bieber taught him about producing records in multiple genres. You don’t want to miss this conversation.

Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

Episode Topics:

Introduction to KC the producer: 3:40 - 7:15

Power of  networking In the industry: 9:15- 12:10

Being inspired early: 12:10 -14:20

Transitioning to create R&B: 14:20-18:00

Working with Drake: 18:00-20:00

First Check: 20:00 - 23:30

Rodney Jerkins and Eric Bellinger: 23:30 - 25:00

Justin Bieber Record: 25:00- 29:00

Producing Records: 29:00 - 32:44 

Getting a placement: 32:44- 35:33

Rodney Jerkins: 35:33 - 37:22

Current R&B favorites: 37:22 - 39:40

Top Male R&B artists of the last decade: 39:40 - 44:30

Best decade to produce R&B: 44:30- 46:02

Best R&B groups of 90s: 46:02- 48:42

Respect the pen: 48:42 - 51:30

What are you currently working on: 51:30- 53:48  

Links:

On the premiere episode of Can We Talk R&B, Singer/Songwriter and Entrepreneur, Ian Von takes us through his journey with discovering his love for R&B music. Ian highlights the R&B pioneers who have shaped the genre since it's inception. He  also breaks down what the audience can expect from Can We Tallk R&B podcast.

Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB

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Hosted & Created by:  Ian Von

Produced by: Launch Pod Studio

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