Tag Archives: Jody Watley

Jody Watley New Milestone Youtube Silver Creator Award 2025

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Jody Watley is so honored to receive the YouTube Silver Creator Award, marking 100,000 subscribers on the Official Jody Watley YouTube Channel to close out 2025. 

This milestone, which also comes in the 30th anniversary year of being an independently released artist on Avitone Recordings. The newest achievement reflects the power of consistency, creative ownership, and audience engagement across music, visual storytelling, and digital platforms. 

Jody Watley smiling while holding her YouTube Silver Creator Award, celebrating 100,000 subscribers.
Jody Watley – Recipient of 2025 Silver Youtube Creator Award

Looking ahead to continued growth, innovation, and connection through content and creativity.

Watch the NEW Thank you Video: Jody Watley Youtube Channel

About the Artist:

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.

The recipient of Crossover Music Icon from Black Music Honors 2017, Inductee in Women Songwriters Hall of Fame, Billboard Dance Music Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient, Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award (Joe Biden), various proclamations for her contributions in women’s & artist and LGBTQ rights, with an ongoing diverse music discography spanning decades in Disco /R&B / Pop / Dance /House Music / Spoken Word/ Dance Electronic – 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 in the USA alone as a solo artist. 

Watley’s eventual fusion of jazz, and deep house music made her a long time staple in underground club culture. The ease with which she crosses genres opened the doors for greater acceptance of black women thinking outside the box in music and fashion is notable.

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. 

Learn More: Jody Watley Bio

Always Something To See and Hear – Jody Watley Youtube

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From the iconic Jody Watley classics to fresh new releases — plus behind-the-scenes moments and inspiring vlogs — there’s always something to see & hear.

A close-up of a woman wearing sunglasses and a large straw hat, smiling while speaking to the camera. Text overlay promotes Jody Watley's YouTube channel.

Subscribe now to the Official Jody Watley YouTube Channel and stay connected to all things Jody Watley  

Wanna stay Updated on Jody Watley? Subscribe to the channel and blog right here.

Follow as well on Verified Jody Watley Social Media Pages

About The Artist:

Jody Watley is a Best New Artist GRAMMY®-winning, multi-platinum singer, songwriter, producer, entrepreneur, and style icon. 

With a diverse discography across multiple charts with 14 entries on The Billboard Hot 100 

Here are Jody Watley’s biggest Solo Top 10 Billboard Hits, of the 14 Total Solo Entries:

Looking For A New Love, Don’t You Want Me, Some Kind Of Lover, Real Love, Friends ft. Eric B & RAKIM, Everything. 

Ranked  by Billboard in the Top 25 of Top Dance Artists of All Time, Top 60 Female Hot 100 Artists of All Time, an inductee in Women’s Songwriters Hall Of Fame, Black Music Honors Crossover Music Icon Honoree + more.

Watley has built a diverse discography spanning R&B, Pop, Dance, Hip Hop, Electronic, Jazz, and Adult Contemporary from the 80s, 90s, 2000s from mainstream to independent critically acclaimed.  

Her latest release, 2025’s Let’s Dance Vol. 1, hit #1 on U.S. iTunes Top Dance Albums in July 2025.

An award-winning songwriter (BMI Medal of Honor, Women’s Songwriters Hall of Fame). 

Jody Watley is also celebrated as a fashion and cultural trailblazer with features in GAP, l.a. Eyeworks, Harper’s Bazaar, VOGUE, Rolling Stone, and more. Widely regarded as a pioneer fusing music and style, she remains one of the architects of 21st-century Pop/R&B/Dance.

Everlasting Authentic Inspiration from Grammy Winner Jody Watley

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GRAMMY Winning Music Icon Jody Watley Kicks Off November With An Everlasting Authentic Message of Inspiration and Encouragement.

Jody Watley performing at an outdoor event, wearing a stylish outfit with a fan in hand, surrounded by photographers and audience members.
Jody Watley. Photo Courtesy of Sean McCracken 2025. All Rights Reserved.

A brand-new month is here, and with it comes an opportunity to reset, reflect, and continue moving forward with gratitude. Many are facing unprecedented challenges, but remember — even when life tests us, we can choose resilience, optimism, and self-care.

As I wrote for my 2024 single “Everlasting”: “Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, gotta stay up – just keep moving on – stay everlasting.. never give up and don’t let the worst of life get the best of you..” Now more than ever, understanding the magnitude the challenges many face which may feel overwhelming. Let these lyrics be a reminder that your journey, growth, and light have purpose.

My songwriting has always been reflective and an extension of a strong commitment to resilience while overcoming life’s challenges. If you can reach out and be of assistance to others, do so – donate to food banks, pay off a child’s lunch program.. every little bit helps.I’d add as well to allow for grace – practice patience, kindness and empathy because you never know what someone else might be going through in your daily interactions offline an online.

This message also aligns with the energy of the current album “Let’s Dance Vol. 1: Hit Them Beats” — a vibrant call to move your body, prioritize wellness, and take care of your mental, emotional, and physical health, movement and exercise is known to lower stress and anxiety levels, blood pressure and benefits mental well-being. Movement is healing. Dancing, walking, cardio, and simply showing up for yourself no matter what. It was my message in 1990 when releasing the groundbreaking “Dance To Fitness” Workout video.. Inner peace, wellness .. timeless messages.

Cover of Jody Watley's 'Dance to Fitness' video, featuring Jody in a stylish outfit with bold text elements.
Jody Watley smiling brightly while holding a disco ball, with vibrant text overlay that reads 'JODY WATLEY LET'S DANCE VOL. 1 Hit Them Beats'.

✨ Stream the music. Available at Digital Platforms Of Your Choice.

📺 Check out new uploads on the official Jody Watley YouTube channel.

📱 Follow Jody Watley on social media to stay updated daily.

💫 And thank you — always — for your continued support. Your positive engagement keeps the creative energy flowing.

Wishing everyone a month filled with gratitude, momentum, and joy. Let’s continue to move forward — together.

About the Artist:

Jody Watley — American singer, songwriter, and producer. Grammy winner for Best New Artist (1988) a 3 time nominee in addition to MTV, American Music Awards and NAACP Image Award nominations. She multi-platinum solo artist, and trendsetting style icon. Featured in VOGUE, Harper’s Bazaar, and Rolling Stone +more, Watley also fronted groundbreaking campaigns for GAP, l.a. Eyeworks, and Saks Fifth Avenue, and launched her own label Avitone Recordings in 1995, before being independent was a trend as a vehicle to release her music after leaving MCA Records in 1994 after 8 blockbuster years and memorable commercial multi-chart singles.

Known for iconic hits like “Looking For A New Love,” “Real Love,” and “Friends” ft. Eric B. & Rakim, her genre-spanning catalog embraces R&B, Pop, Dance, House, and Jazz across the decades 80, 90, 2000 – present + more

Jody Watley is also known for her  trendsetting style leading to features in VOGUE, Harper’s Bazaar, Rolling Stone and groundbreaking ad campaigns for GAP, l.a Eyeworks & Saks Fifth Avenue, and best selling fitness fitness video “Dance to Fitness”. Jody Watley is also founder of Avitone Recordings established in 1995 as an independent vehicle to release her music after leaving the major label system. In 2025 to mark the 30th Anniversary of her Avitone label she released “Let’s Dance Vol. 1- Hit Them Beats” which vaulted to #1 on the U.S. Top Dance Electronic Albums Chart on July 11 in addition to #1 on the Amazon Music UK Top Dance Electronic Albums Chart.

Watley is also noted for her advocacy for the LGBTQ community, as well as women’s and artist rights and has established herself as a powerhouse in the music industry. 

She  continues to inspire fans with her talent, positivity and resilience in addition to a consistent flow of quality music.

A proud advocate for women, artist rights, and the LGBTQ+ community, she continues to inspire through music, style, and authenticity.

Keep It Moving With Jody Watley’s LET’S DANCE Vol. 1

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A woman with curly hair wearing a denim jacket, holding a disco ball close to her face, with a soft expression and vibrant makeup.

Hello September! 🍂✨

As we step into a new season, Jody Watley sends a message of appreciation to take a moment to say thank you for helping make this summer one to remember! My new album, LET’S DANCE Vol. 1 (Hit Them Beats), became a #1 U.S. iTunes Dance Album and also hit #1 on Amazon UK’s Hot New Dance/Electronic chart! 🪩💿

This milestone is so special because it celebrates not only 40+ years of my solo journey but also 30 years of independence as an artist, songwriter, and producer on my own label, Avitone. Your love, streams, shares, and support made it all possible. 🩵🩷

But this isn’t just about summer — it’s about keeping the energy alive into fall! 🍁 Whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a walk, dancing in your living room, or just need a mood boost, LET’S DANCE Vol. 1 is here to keep you moving, inspired, and uplifted.

Let’s make this season one of joy, wellness, and music that moves us — together. 🎶✨

Close-up of Jody Watley smiling widely, holding a disco ball, with vibrant makeup and styled hair, against a colorful background featuring the text 'LET'S DANCE VOL. 1 Hit Them Beats'.

🎧 Stream “LET’S DANCE Vol. 1 (Hit Them Beats)” → Here

💃🏾 Just push play… and keep dancing into fall! If you don’t dance, that’s OK, add it to your workout, cardio playlists or just vibing at home.

Subscribe to the Jody Watley Youtube channel to keep up with exclusive video uploads as well as Follow Jody Watley on Social Media Verified Pages.

About The Artist:

Jody Watley is a Grammy-winning, multi-platinum artist, songwriter, producer, and style icon. With 6 Billboard Top 10 Hot 100 hits, 13 No. 1 Dance singles, and a genre-spanning catalog—from R&B, Pop, and Hip Hop to Jazz, Electronic, and House—Watley is listed among Billboard’s Top 60 Female Artists of All Time.

A visionary and trailblazer, she set the blueprint for the independent artist movement by launching her own label, Avitone, in 1995—decades before it became a trend. Her solo career continues to thrive with critically acclaimed and chart-topping releases.

Jody Watley’s The Makeover: An Innovative Album Release Journey

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Album cover for Jody Watley's 2006 release 'The Makeover,' featuring a stylized image of Watley with text stating '#1 iTunes Top Dance/Electronic Albums 2006.'

On this day in 2006, Grammy-winning artist Jody Watley released her 8th full-length album, The Makeover — a bold and forward-thinking project that fused timeless style with modern electronic dance grooves. This aligned with the concept rooted in reminding people to not get so caught up in celebrity culture which was becoming ‘a thing’ with the onset of social media at the time. In addition she spoke on superficial beauty standards, inspired ironically by a layout she’d seen in a VOGUE Italia cover story called “Makeover Madness”. Jody Watley says in the liner notes to be your own personal superstar.

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Shifting Paradigms in Music Releases

Long before independent releases and creative brand partnerships became standard practice, Watley redefined the album rollout experience. For The Makeover, her Avitone label partnered with Virgin Megastore, high-end cosmetics brand Shu Uemura, and select beauty salons for an exclusive direct-to-retail launch. Fans were treated to live performances, meet-and-greets, autographs, and even full beauty makeovers — turning the album release into a glamorous, multi-sensory event.

“Cannily cross-marketed with her appearance on Bravo’s “Workout” .. finds space in the material for layers of fresh meaning.- Time Out NY

“new paradigms..damned if the album didn’t debut as the chain’s best selling release..” Hits Daily Double 

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Chart-Topping Success Without Radio

Screenshot of the Virgin Megastore top ten album sales chart from August 15, 2006, featuring Jody Watley's album 'The Makeover' at number one.

The results were undeniable. The Makeover debuted at #1 on Virgin Megastore’s chain-wide sales chart, holding the position for five consecutive weeks — without the push of a radio single. On iTunes, it entered at #3 on the Top Electronic Albums chart, rising to #1. Eventually spawning three Top 5 Billboard Dance hits:

• #1 – “I Want Your Love” (also #1 UK Commercial Pop, giving Watley her first UK #1 in 20 years 🇬🇧)

• #2 – “Borderline”

• #5 – “A Beautiful Life”

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Reimagining the Familiar, Creating the New

The Makeover masterfully blended fresh originals with inventive reworkings of pop classics. Watley’s interpretations of “Borderline,” “Love Hangover,” “Waiting in Vain,” and CHIC’s “I Want Your Love” sat seamlessly alongside originals like “Bed of Roses,” co-written with acclaimed UK collective 4Hero.

Production credits included Watley herself alongside Rodney Lee, with contributions from King Britt, DJ Spinna, Ron Trent, 4Hero, and Mark de Clive-Lowe — a roster that underscored the album’s genre-crossing sophistication.

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Legacy & Influence

As the follow-up to 2003’s Midnight Lounge, The Makeover solidified Watley’s reputation for innovation in both music and marketing. Its success foreshadowed the now-common trend of artists creating immersive, lifestyle-driven release campaigns. Nearly two decades later, The Makeover still feels fresh — proof that style and substance never go out of fashion.

Jody Watley holding her album 'The Makeover' at a promotional event in front of a Virgin Megastore backdrop.

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Listen to The Makeover: Streaming at digital platform of your choice.

Follow Jody Watley on her official social media pages.

#TheMakeover #JodyWatley #Avitone30 #DanceMusic #Electronica #IndieArtistPower #JodyWatleyDiscography

Jody Watley Gives Us An Exclusive Making of ‘Dancer’

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A large group of dancers poses together in a studio with a brick wall backdrop, showcasing a diverse range of styles and expressions.

In continued celebration of 3 decades of Jody Watley independent label Avitone Recordings, she takes on an exclusive behind the scenes look for the making of the official video for the single DANCER, originally from her critically acclaimed glamorous soulful ride of “PARADISE”. The song is about self confidence no matter what you do in life onstage or off. It’s about the freedom of letting go.

A joyful woman laughing while participating in a dance rehearsal, surrounded by children and dancers in a studio setting.

Written by Jody Watley and Federico Costantini (Italy), DANCER is more than a club track — it’s a declaration of self-belief.

Hit Them Beats – Lose Yourself – Get IN the Music!

Watch the Newly Released Behind The Scenes Making of Exclusively on The Official Jody Watley YouTube Channel: Here

Stream the music at the digital music outlet of your choice for Jody Watley Music.

Jody Watley – PARADISE EP (2014) | A Legacy of Sound

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Jody Watley posing with hands near her face, wearing a stylish black patterned outfit, with curly hair and the word 'PARADISE' prominently displayed in the foreground.

On July 28, 2014 Jody Watley released her “PARADISE” EP – a cohesive blend of nu‑disco, house, soul & jazz, following acclaimed albums “Midnight Lounge” & “The Makeover” from her Avitone Recordings. 

The EP features productions of Jody Watley with an international cast Count de Money/Bill Coleman for Peace Bisquit; Mark De Clive Lowe, Soulpersona and Luminodisco; plus live strings by Miguel Atwood-Ferguson.

“NIGHTLIFE” – the lead single and video – became Jody Watley’s 19th Billboard Solo Dance Top 20 hit (#18) and charted in the UK (#5 Urban / #6 Commercial Pop).

Tracklist:

Nightlife • Dancer • The Dawn • Tonight’s The Night (MdCL Remix) • Paradise • Sanctuary (Soulpersona Remix)

Photography: Albert Sanchez

Art Direction & Design: | Graphics & Logo Design Ray Easmon | Video Visuals Ray Easmon 

A milestone in Jody’s evolution as an artist, writer & producer, as well as for her Avitone Recordings.

“Watley’s R&B has always been progressive and the arc of Paradise is no different from Watley’s past endeavors―somewhat. This time, Watley exchanges the electronically charged rhythm and blues from her last three records with a classic / contemporary fusion of disco. 

Understand, this isn’t your little brother’s hipster disco, nor is it just a retroactive 70s redux. “PARADISE” melds elements of the aforementioned disco genre from today and yesterday. “ Quentin Harrison, Albumism 

Inspiration for Paradise? “It’s basically a party record created and inspired in classic soul dance records in many ways..a celebration of feel good music, with lyrics that make you feel like getting out, or turning up the volume in your car. Paradise is about living life and creating special moments today with music as the motivator, the backdrop. I’m very much about that – to remind people of that. “ – Jody Watley, Interview Excerpt 2014

Limited Edition CD Digipak + NIGHTLIFE vinyl were also released.

Revisit the vibes. Listen now & rediscover the journey.

“PARADISE” – A Legacy of Sound, A Vibe That Endures.

#JodyWatley #Avitone30 #AvitoneRecordings #IndependentArtist #PARADISE #itsinthemusic  #rnb #dancemusıc #nudisco

Jody Watley: A Legacy Of Sound, A Vibe That Endures

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Jody Watley Takes Control Of Her Own Destiny With New Label Avitone

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-Billboard Magazine, The Rhythm & The Blues – J.R. Reynolds
June 1995 

A feature from the archives of Billboard Magazine, 1995.

“Watley Takes Control Of Her Own Destiny”

Jody Watley launched Avitone Records to release her own music, beginning with the album “Affection” (July 11, 1995). The debut single made waves at R&B radio while the album, co-written & produced by Watley and Derrick Edmonson, blended uptempo grooves with soulful intimacy and live instrumentation. Affection was manufactured, marketed and distributed by Bellmark owned by music veteran Al Bell. Al Bell is an American record producer, songwriter, and record executive. He is best known as having been an executive and co-owner of Stax Records Al Bell is an American record producer, songwriter, and record executive.

He is best known as having been an executive and co-owner of Stax Records. He later started his own label, Bellmark, whose releases included Tag Team’s single “Whoomp! (There It Is)” (1993) and Prince (1994 single) The Most Beautiful Girl In The World for Prince’s NPG label. 

“I’m an artist who likes to keep changing and developing. It was time to take another chance.” – Jody Watley

By year’s end, Billboard named:

#7 Top Indie R&B Label – Avitone

#8 Top Indie R&B Single – Affection

Do it yourself. Believe in your vision.

Fast forward 3 decades, we celebrate the milestone with Jody Watley – “LET’S DANCE Vol. 1 (Hit Them Beats)” 

The album vaulted to #1 iTunes US Dance Albums 7.11.25  and #1 Amazon Music U.K. Top Dance Electronic Albums. Let’s Dance becomes Jody Watley’s third #1 independent album release following “The Makeover” in 2006 and “Midnight Lounge” 2003 Top Dance Electronic Albums iTunes.

Let’s Dance Vol. 1 is a nonstop dance extravaganza featuring mixes 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, Brian Power.

Celebrate 30 years of Jody Watley’s Avitone Recordings label with “LET’S DANCE Vol. 1 (Hit Them Beats)” — a sizzling new album of indie dance gems, remastered Avitone club classics and chart-topping faves.

Available for streaming and download on all major digital platforms worldwide.

Feel free to Support | Download | Stream | Like | Share | Add to your Playlist.

About The Artist:

Jody Watley is a GRAMMY-winning, multi-platinum singer/songwriter/producer and style icon. Named Best New Artist in 1988, she’s one of Billboard’s Top 60 Female Artists of All Time, with 6 Top 10 Hot 100 hits, 13 No. 1 Dance singles, and genre-spanning success across R&B, Pop, Dance, and Jazz. A visionary in music and fashion,

Watley helped pave the way for Black women to break boundaries. Honored as a Crossover Music Icon by Black Music Honors, her influence continues—decades strong.

Jody Watley – LET’S DANCE Vol. 1 Hits Top Charts

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OUT NOW!

Jody Watley LET’S DANCE Vol.1 (Hit Them Beats) VAULTS to Top of the iTunes and Amazon Music Top Dance Electronic Albums Charts.

After 8 successful albums and singles at MCA 1987-1994 (4 full lengths, gold and platinum albums, 2 remix albums, 2 Greatest Hits Collections) Grammy artist Jody Watley in 1995 started Avitone Recordings as the vessel to release her music independently.  

LET’S DANCE Vol. 1 Hit Them Beats is a celebration! 

▪️A new club-fueled compilation celebrating 30 years (!) of Remastered Club Classics, Top 10, #1’s and chart-topping faves of indie dance gems and collaborations released on Jody’s Avitone label.🎉🪩

▪️Vol. 1 features 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, Brian Power

A&R: Jody Watley Bill Coleman & Angelo Pepe Skordos for Avitone Recordings & Peace Bisquit

🎧 Download • Stream • Playlist • Share – Upgrade Your Summer Music Playlist

#JodyWatley #LetsDance

Jody Watley is a GRAMMY-winning, multi-platinum singer/songwriter/producer and style icon. Named Best New Artist in 1988, she’s one of Billboard’s Top 60 Female Artists of All Time, with 6 Top 10 Hot 100 hits, 13 No. 1 Dance singles, and genre-spanning success across R&B, Pop, Dance, and Jazz. A visionary in music and fashion, Watley helped pave the way for Black women to break boundaries. Honored as a Crossover Music Icon by Black Music Honors, her influence continues—decades strong.