This is a timeless message from Jody Watley worth revisiting as we enter a new autumn season.
Jody Watley | Faith Heart Magazine | September 2020 Cover Story
A conversation about inspiration, self-love, fresh starts, reinvention and embracing your own light.
Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, producer and style icon Jody Watley reflected on how she uses her voice — through music, lyrics, her career journey, motivational messages, interviews and a positive online presence — to encourage others to be themselves and live fearlessly.
Her message remains timeless:
•Accept where you are.
•Live in the moment.
•Surround yourself with uplifting energy.
•Don’t define yourself by age or the expectations of others.
•Take care of your mind, body and spirit doing your best to make healthy choices.
•Embrace Your Wattage and Never Let Others Dim Your Light
And perhaps the simplest reminder of all:
“Every day is a FRESH START! I always say — Just BEGIN.”
Remembering Bob Mackie: Jody Watley, “After You, Who?” & a Legacy of Style
Some designers create clothes. Others create moments.
Bob Mackiewas one of those rare designers whose work became inseparable from the glamour, individuality and visual identity of the entertainment world. His extraordinary use of intricate beading, sequins, movement and theatrical detail helped define some of the most memorable fashion images in music and television.
The legendary Bob Mackie passed away yesterday at 87, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy that forever changed the way music, television and entertainment could look. Anyone who loves entertainment, fashion and glamour like me is forever inspired.
Known for his dazzling craftsmanship, intricate beading, sequins and unapologetic glamour, Mackie created unforgettable fashion moments for some of the most iconic women in entertainment. His designs didn’t simply dress performers — they helped create an entire visual language of stardom.
Jody Watley was among the artists whose style embodied that same spirit of evolution and individuality. “Mackie was gracious, the stunning beaded gown I wear in the video is from his archives and perfectly captured the glamorous chanteuse the director Matthew Rolston and I were going for in the period piece – where I got to channel my inner Diana Ross as well! As a little girl I lived to see what Cher would wear on The Sonny & Cher and Cher Show, Carol Burnett Show, Tina Turner, and yes of course his designs for Ms. Ross! I was also inspired by his illustrations as well, and for a time beyond always wanting to be an entertainer, fashion illustration became a passion of mine sketching fashion ideas his creative process.”
In 1990, Watley wore a stunning beaded Bob Mackie gown in the video for her sophisticated jazz interpretation of Cole Porter’s “After You, Who?” The recording appeared on Red Hot + Blue, the landmark album and film project celebrating Cole Porter while raising awareness and funds in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Mackie contributed the gown Jody wore for the video, creating a particularly memorable intersection of music, fashion and philanthropy.
For Jody, whose visual identity has always been an important part of her artistry, the look was more than beautiful wardrobe. It was another example of how she could move effortlessly between musical worlds while continuing to evolve her image.
And for Mackie, it was another contribution to the rich visual history he helped shape — one where glamour, craftsmanship and personality could exist together.
As we remember Bob Mackie, this moment stands as a beautiful reminder of his enduring influence and the extraordinary connection between fashion and music history. Bob Mackie. Jody Watley. Cole Porter. “After You, Who?” — a timeless meeting of artistry and style. Watch Jody Watley’s video tribute: Here On The Jody Watley Youtube Channel.
Jody Watley in Bob Mackie Beaded Gown 1990 on Set of After You Who? Video
Bob Mackie leaves an incredible timeless legacy of glamour and inspiration.
The Ultimate Disco Cruise and BEYOND 2027 is over 95% sold!
Don’t miss your chance to dance under the disco mirror ball and sail the Music & Style Icon, Legend Grammy Winner Jody Watley February 21-26. She will deliver a show that will take you on her unique and incredible ongoing music journey. Disco and BEYOND!
Start planning your outfits and give yourself the music vacation you deserve. Plan it. Book It.
Book your cabin before it’s too late and use code JODYFAN for a special discount rate.
August was full of high notes, music milestones, and good vibes!
“The Dawn” — Alex Di Ciò Extended Remix kept the dance music energy going throughout the month, while August also brought several memorable music anniversary moments, celebrating everything from iconic MCA era to releases from the thriving independent Avitone Recordings ongoing!
There was also new merchandise to add to your collection — and I ended the month with a rare live guest appearance at Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Florida, for The Ultimate Dance & Freestyle Experience. Watch a snippet : Here
From the classics to the latest music, the journey continues — and I’m grateful to everyone who continues to listen, download, purchase the merchandise, stream, share, support in the NOW, and celebrate the milestones and anniversaries as well.
Here’s to September!
Wishing everyone a healthy month with joy, recalibrating where you need it.. music-filled of course to keep you inspired. – Jody Watley
Happy 20th Anniversary to Jody Watley’s critically acclaimed 2006 album, The Makeover — a groundbreaking independent release that was as much about shifting paradigms as it was about music.
Released through Watley’s independent Avitone Recordings, The Makeover became an early example of the changing landscape for independent artists and innovative music retail partnerships.
In 2006, Avitone partnered with Virgin Megastore, beauty powerhouse Shu Uemura and local beauty salons for an exclusive The Makeover release campaign featuring special in-store appearances, live performances, autograph signings and fan beauty makeovers.
The result?
The Makeover debuted as Virgin Megastore’s #1 exclusive new release, remaining at #1 for five weeks — without a traditional radio single driving the release.
The album also made its mark digitally, debuting at #3 on iTunes Top Electronic Albums ultimately reaching #1 and producing threeBillboard Dance Top 5 hits:
“I Want Your Love” — #1 Dance
“Borderline” — #2 Dance
“A Beautiful Life” — #5 Dance
Watley’s sophisticated reimagining of the CHIC classic “I Want Your Love”, featuring guitar by Nile Rodgers, also reached #1 Commercial Pop in the UK, giving Jody her first UK #1 in 20 years.
But The Makeover was about more than reworking familiar classics.
It was reimagining the familiar and creating the new — blending electronic, dance, soul, ambient pop and sophisticated club music with original compositions from Watley, a singer-songwriter-producer continuing to create on her own terms.
The album brought together an extraordinary roster of collaborators including Nile Rodgers, King Britt, 4hero, DJ Spinna, Ron Trent, Mark de Clive-Lowe, Chris Brann and Rodney Lee.
And the title itself carried a deeper message as well as the cover art opting not for a beauty shot but a threshold aesthetic – blank canvas clean slate open to personal interpretation.
At a time when social media and celebrity culture were accelerating society’s fixation on appearance, Watley used The Makeover to explore beauty, image, aging and the unrealistic expectations placed on women — themes that remain remarkably relevant 20 years later.
As an independent artist and founder of Avitone Recordings since 1995, Watley recognized the importance of the Virgin Megastore partnership as a milestone not only for her music, but for the possibilities available to independent artists.
20 years later, The Makeover still sounds like the future.
Reimagining the familiar.
Creating the new.
Owning the journey.
Download. Stream. Discover. Rediscover this groundbreaking independent Jody Watley release at the music platforms of your choice.
About Jody Watley:
Jody Watley is a GRAMMY award winning multi-platinum singer/songwriter/producer recognized as a style icon. Winner of Best New Artist in 1988, only the third black artist in recording academy history at the time. Jody Watley is listed in Billboard as one of the Top 60 Female Artists of All Time, Top 25 Dance Artists of All Time and Top 100 Black Solo Artists Of All Time. One of the defining female artists in Pop/R&B/Dance music and culture 80s and 90s, Jody Watley is the recipient of Crossover Music Icon from Black Music Honors 2017 with an ongoing diverse music discography spanning R&B / Pop / Dance /Hip Hop / Spoken Word/Electronic / Jazz / Adult Contemporary 80s, 90s, 2000s-Present
As a solo artist, for over four decades; the Pop and R&B singer-songwriter -producer has 6 Billboard Hot 100 Top Ten Singles (Looking For A New Love, Don’t You Want Me, Friends ft. Eric B & Rakim and more), her video for the now classic hit “Real Love” remains one of the most nominated MTV VMA’s of all time, 13 Number 1 Dance Singles, 2 R&B Number 1’s, 15 Top 40 Singles, Gold and multi-platinum albums , a gold single and video compilation in the USA alone as a solo artist in addition to a #1 million selling fitness video.
Watley’s eventual fusion of jazz, and deep house music makes her one of music most versatile artists. Recent releases have continued to impact UK Soul Radio and a growing social media presence with recent Youtube Silver Creator Award in 2025.
The versatile songstress and Chicago native was recognized by People Magazine in their 50 Most Beautiful People Issue, and appeared in breakthrough ad campaigns for GAP, Saks 5th Avenue and LA Eyeworks of many ongoing milestones in her solo career.
Jody Watley July 2026 With Joy. All Rights Reserved Avid Music Inc.
As July comes to a close, I want to extends heartfelt thanks to the DJs, radio programmers, music tastemakers, and fans around the world who have embraced the new single “THE DAWN” featuring the Alex Di Ciò Remix (Single Edit & Extended Mix), a contemporary blend of sophisticated dance-pop and funk. Thanks as well to those who purchased merchandise to represent your Jody Watley support.
From club and radio spins to streams, downloads, playlist adds, and social shares, the support has helped fuel the continued international momentum of this independent release which has reached Top 10 Amazon Music UK, #1 Breakout Single UK Soul Chart and added to playlists from the UK to Spain, France, Netherlands and beyond. Every listener, every DJ, and every supporter plays a part in bringing the music to audiences across the globe. Thank you for being part of the journey. Another shout out to babyboypiaf on TiKTok for the tribute video and original house song “I Love Me Some Jody Watley… She’s an Icon,” to close out the month.
Here’s to an exciting August with the best of the month to all. Let’s keep “THE DAWN” rising through streams, downloads and shares. Radio Edit & Extended.
Support | Download | Stream | Share | Playlist | add to your Jody Watley collection.
May your fears or anxiety be replaced with faith that everything will work out. May the music always inspire you to keep going.
If you’re in Florida, I’ll making a special and rare guest appearance August 28 at The Ultimate Dance & Freestyle Experience at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino in Hollywood Florida.
About Jody Watley:
As a pioneering independent artist and the founder of Avitone Recordings, Grammy winning solo artist, songwriter, producer Jody Watley continues to demonstrate that authentic artistry, creative independence, and a loyal global community remain a powerful combination. Discover More Music In The Jody Watley Discography.
Jody Watley’s Enduring Influence Inspires Original TikTok House Music Tribute
The influence of Grammy-winning music and style icon Jody Watley continues to resonate across generations, inspiring artists, creators, and fans around the world.
In a heartfelt tribute on TikTok, creator @babyboypiaf wrote and recorded the original house track, “I Love Me Some Jody Watley… She’s an Icon,” celebrating Watley’s enduring impact on music, fashion, and popular culture. From her signature hoop earrings and winged eyeliner to her fearless creativity and groundbreaking artistry, the homage highlights the many ways Jody Watley’s legacy continues to inspire.
More than a fan tribute, it’s a reminder that authentic artistry leaves a lasting imprint. Decades into an acclaimed career that continues to evolve, Jody Watley’s influence is reflected not only in her award-winning music but also in the countless creators who continue to celebrate her vision, style, independence, and innovation.
Thank you to @babyboypiaf for this thoughtful and creative homage, and to fans everywhere who continue to share their appreciation for Jody Watley’s enduring legacy.
Watch short snippet of the Tik Tok Tribute on The Jody Watley YouTube Channel: Here
Grammy winning singer, songwriter, producer Jody Watley’s “THE DAWN” (Alex Di Ciò Extended Remix) has arrived, a mix sophisticated dance-pop, funk, soul, and contemporary electronic grooves.
For those just discovering Jody Watley or her ongoing current music, this is not a comeback—it’s a continuation.
The feel good summer dance single is fused with flourishing bass, rhythm guitar for a modern blend of pop, disco, funk.
“The Dawn” is already generating interest globally, recently Top 10 in sales Amazon Music UK Top Dance Electronic Singles, and #1 Breaker UK Soul Chart.
Turn it up and experience the extended journey of the latest Jody Watley independent Avitone release.
Get Ready To Download • Stream • Add to Your Playlist • Share
From her groundbreaking GRAMMY Award-winning solo debut through decades of acclaimed independent releases, EPs, albums, and charting singles, Watley has consistently forged her own path. Jody Watley’s career reflects a rare combination of longevity, artistic independence, and a commitment to evolving creatively while staying true to her vision.
Jody Watley – THE DAWN Alex Di Cio Extended Remix : Drops July 15, 2026
Blending sophisticated dance-pop, funk, soul, and contemporary electronic grooves, Jody Watley’s The Dawn (Alex Di Ciò Remix)—originally written and produced by Watley and Mark de Clive-Lowe—showcases an artist, songwriter, and producer who continues to evolve while remaining true to her creative vision.
Released independently via her Avitone imprint on June 15, The Dawn (Alex Di Ciò Remix) continues to build impressive momentum in the UK. The single currently holds #6 on the Amazon Music UK Hot 100 Dance Releases chart—an outstanding achievement for an independent release in today’s highly competitive music landscape. Without the benefit of a major-label campaign or extensive media rollout, the song has earned its place through organic fan support, radio airplay, streaming, and the enduring connection Jody Watley has built with audiences around the world.
Adding to its momentum, THE DAWNis also among Jody Watley’s Top 10 most-streamed songs, sitting alongside many of her signature classics—a remarkable accomplishment for a brand-new release and further proof that her contemporary music continues to resonate with longtime fans and new listeners alike.
For those just discovering Jody Watley’s current music, this is not a comeback—it’s a continuation.
From her groundbreaking GRAMMY Award-winning solo debut through decades of acclaimed independent releases, EPs, albums, and charting singles, Watley has consistently forged her own path. Her career reflects a rare combination of longevity, artistic independence, and a commitment to evolving creatively while staying true to her vision.
The momentum continues with the arrival of The Dawn (Alex Di Ciò Extended Mix) on July 15, delivering an expanded, club-ready interpretation of the acclaimed summer groove to all major digital platforms.
Jody Watley’s LET’S DANCE Vol. 1 (Hit Them Beats) was released on July 9, 2025. The album, her 14th, vaulted to #1 on the USA iTunes Top Dance Albums Chart (U.S.) and #1 on UK Amazon’s Hot New Dance/Electronic chart on July 11.
Featuring remixes by Craig C., Quentin Harris, Josh Peace, Mark de Clive-Lowe, John “J-C” Carr, Morgan Page, Love To Infinity, Jodie Harsh, Alex Di Ciò, Ron Trent, and Brian Power, reimagining Jody Watley’s contemporary dance hits and club favorites blended into a non-stop mix.
Co-produced by Jody Watley, Bill Coleman (Peace Bisquit), and Angelo “Pepe” Skordos.This album release reflects an ongoing artistry and longevity. 40+ Solo from iconic R&B / Pop classics to dance hits and anthems many of them have come from 30 years independently released with her own label Avitone and the ongoing quiet relevance of a rare legacy artist not resting on her laurels of an already iconic catalog and discography but one who is committed to her artistry and love of music not chasing charts, while appreciating the support of longtime and new fans alike.
Jody Watley is a GRAMMY® Award–winning Best New Artist, 3x nominee, multi-platinum singer, songwriter, producer, entrepreneur, and style icon.
Renowned as one of the most defining female artists of the 80s starting with her multi platinum breakthrough debut album. To date she has amassed 6 Top 10 Billboard Hot 100 singles including the iconic “Looking for a New Love,” (#1 R&B and Dance) “Don’t You Want Me,” “Friends” ft. Eric B. & Rakim, and the gold-certified “Real Love,” (#1 R&B and Dance) +more, Jody Watley is also an MTV VMA Awards 6 time nominee, in addition to American Music Awards and NAACP nominee.
Jody Watley has built a genre-spanning, critically acclaimed catalog across disco Into R&B, Pop, Dance, Electronica — from 80s, 90s, 2000s – Present with her latest releases “The Dawn” (2026) Alex di Ciò. Remix, Let’s Dance Vol. 1 – Hit Them Beats (2025), EVERLASTING (2025).
Download. Stream. Playlist “Let’s Dance Vol. 1 – Hit Them Beats” at music platforms of your choice.
