The Grammy winning Solo career and songwriting catalog of Jody Watley includes blockbuster classics like (“Looking For A New Love”, “Still A Thrill”, “Don’t You Want Me”, “Real Love”, “Friends” the groundbreaking hit ft Eric B & Rakim) to name a few and countless other gems in an ongoing career with over 100 songwriting credits to her Jody Watley Music, BMI catalog). Jody Watley’s “Sweet 16” was recorded by Destiny’s Child on their multiple platinum album “Writings On The Wall” as well as compositions from platinum artist Jermaine Stewart (“Say It Again” album.
Jody Watley received the BMI songwriter award “Medal Of Honor” in 1993 for over a million plays of songs in her songwriting catalog.
The Jody Watley songwriting catalog dates back to her Shalamar days co-writing songs and penning lyrics and melodies to “Full of Fire” & “Work It Out” (3 for Love album 1980) “Help Me” & “Playing To Win” (Friends album 1982).
Her deep pen continues today with more uplifting solo gems like “Sanctuary”, “The Essence”, “The Healing” “Skin Deep” “A Beautiful Life” and more with her broad repertoire that spans R&B, Pop, Dance, Hip Hop, House Music, Jazz, Drum & Bass, Ambient Chill Electronica, Spoken word (can we discuss the depth of “When A Man Loves A Woman, Affection”) & Inspirational. The recipient of the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award at Jody Watley Day at Georgia State Capitol this year, an honorary doctorate recipient in humanitarian endeavors, business & entrepreneurship, we celebrate and honor the Icon in and her legacy in music and Songwriting Dr.Jody Watley.” –
Women Songwriters Hall Of Fame August 27, 2022.
Other notable inductees include Marilyn Bergman (posthumous), Gloria Estefan, Siedah Garrett, Indigo Girls, Loretta Lynn at the second year of the ceremony held in Washington, D.C.
I was unable to attend unfortunately due to being sick for two weeks with Covid, and also still taking time to rest while mourning the passing of my Mom and handling her affairs, a video recording of my acceptance speech was playing. This is a very high honor for me to be recognized and in such as esteemed class of other women songwriters.