Jon B Speaks On Family, New Music & Staying True to Yourself

One of the most memorable voices in R&B in the 1990s and 2000s belonged to none other than Jon B! The platinum artist sat down with Contrast magazine to talk about family, staying true to himself, and his music career.

The prolific singer, songwriter, and music producer was personal friends with Tupac Shakur and collaborated with some of the top artists at the time to create some wonderful music that still stands the test of time.
During these times, more than ever, we could take some tips from Jon, especially with his philosophy on life, which he described as really living out every single moment!

Jon has been doing just that as he describes the gems he has been learning during quarantine, stating, “I have been most aware of the power I possess as a musician and a creative person to take people to a place that is not the present moment of what they are going through,” as he describes the atmospheric element of his music to the life and frequency he aims to live.

Aside from being an R&B superstar, Jon B. is quite the family man in his personal life. He attributes the highlights and best moments of his life to meeting his wife and having his baby girls, 7 and 13 years of age. “Family keeps me grounded and provides that passion for what I do. It’s a blessing to have a family, especially during these times.”

Jon described his family as all the love he needs, especially when he lost creativity and developed the feeling of despair due to the music industry’s politics. Because of his family, he maintained his sanity and came out with love and appreciation for what he does as a musician.

Music critics said that Jon B’s music successfully bridged hip-hop and R&B but also brought in some smooth soul elements from the 1970s. His debut album “Bonafide” was released in 1995 and hit No. 24 on the Billboard R&B chart along with going Platinum. It included the single “Someone to Love,” a duet featuring Babyface, which went gold and received a Grammy nomination for best pop collaboration with vocals. “Cool Relax,” his next release, went double Platinum. It included his most popular singles, “They Don’t Know” and “Are U Still Down,” featuring Tupac. He also received a Billboard Music Award nomination for top R&B artist in 1998.

Jon B went on to release four other full-length albums: “Pleasures Like You,” which went Platinum, “Stronger Everyday,” “Helpless Romantic,” and “Comfortable Swagg.” Plus, a Christmas recording in 2006, “Holiday Wishes: From Me To You,” and a B-side collection in 2013. A wide variety of performers have steadily continued to seek out Jon B’s songwriting expertise, including the Spice Girls, Toni Braxton, Maxi Priest, and more.
Get current info about Jon B, including his music and videos, at jonbworld.com. He also is performing at select venues in fall and winter 2020 as well as in 2021!