Tag Archives: Jody Watley Discography

27 Years of Jody Watley’s Flower: A Musical Journey

Posted on by

Jody Watley‘s “Flower” Album Turns 27: Timeless Music Of Growth and Renewal. The Grammy winner came together with an esteemed array of collaborators for her 6th solo album. From select members of Organized Noize (Ivan Matias), Masters at Work (Louie Vega, Kenny Gonzalez), Tony! Toni! Toné! (D’Wayne Wiggins and Randall Wiggins) and Groove Theory (Bryce Wilson) as well as Rahsaan Patterson, Malik Pendleton, Cassandra Lucas, Phil Galdston, Deric Angelettie, and Derrick Edmonson all assembled to get down to the business of record making. Out of all these new faces, Edmonson was the only carry over from Flower’s antecedent Affection, as a Watley co-writer, co producer, the first release of Jody Watley’s independent offering from her Avitone Recordings, established in 1995.

While it’s true that the genesis of Flower had a bumpy start, the project eventually took on a joyful upswing during its creation. All of those assembled respected Watley’s progressive form of soul and sought to make it accessible to the black radio format of the late 1990s. Obvious hooks are planted among the fluid funk of Flower, none of them blocking the intelligence or sexiness of the lyrical thrust of the LP.

Watley’s way with a groove, whether a simmering midtempo (“Flower,” “Everything You Do”) or a punchy uptempo aimed squarely for the dancefloor (“Baby Tonight,” “I Don’t Want You Back”), was second to none. “Off the Hook” functioned at both paces on the affair, becoming its launching single. It’s original incarnation favors Quiet Storm posture, whereas its secondary shape—the D-Dot Remix—is that of an undeniable hip-hop banger that reunites her with one of that movement’s defining voices after their inaugural partnership on “Friends” in 1989: Rakim. 

There are at least four formal downtempos on Flower, all of them prepossessing, but it’s the acoustic warmth of “16” that rises above that pretty pack to become not only the best ballad on the set, but one of the standout entries in Watley’s entire discography. On “16,” Watley writes and sings for young womanhood and captures all of the feelings of that unique, if sometimes bittersweet, journey. A year after its release on Flower, it found its way onto The Writings on the Wall (1999) as “Sweet Sixteen,” the second LP from a soon-to-be iconic girl group known as Destiny’s Child. – Quentin Harrison, Albumism –

Singles: Off The Hook

# 1 Hot Dance Club Play (Remixed by Masters At Work & D-Dot Hip Hop Remix)

# 23 Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles

# 73 Hot 100

“If I’m Not in Love” (The Remixes)

# 2 Hot Dance Club Play

It’s Spring – be like a “Flower – continue to bloom and grow.

Revisit or Listen for the first time! “Flower” is streaming at all digital platforms. Learn more about the Jody Watley Discography.

Watch the NEW exclusive video upload on The Jody Watley Youtube Channel – Here

Jody Watley Songs Deep in The Category Of Love

Posted on by

Valentine’s Day is one holiday set aside in the calendar but for Jody Watley it’s year round. Encouraging followers on social media to encourage practicing ove every day including practicing self-love and more love into the world in these unpredictable times.

Sharing a classic photo from her groundbreaking hit “Friends” featuring Eric B & Rakim, Jody Watley shared her choice of her first tattoo – “I chose cupid, a cherub because love is what I’m all about and I knew getting this angel of love is something I’d never regret. A year later I added the word LOVE beneath it.

Engaging the fans, Watley asked to hear thoughts about favorite Jody Watley LOVE songs. If you missed out, you can share in the comments on the video posted on the Official Youtube Channel- Here

Celebrating 5 Years of Jody Watley “Winter Nights” EP

Posted on by

“The legendary Jody Watley has blessed our ears with another dynamic dose of sophisticated soul in the form of her new Winter Nights EP.  Comprised of three core tracks—each given the remix sheen by her frequent collaborator Alex Di Ciò—and bookended by piano-driven “Winter Nights” instrumentals, Watley accurately describes the song set as “perfect for cozy winter nights to warm you up.” – Albumism

Jody Watley “Winter Nights” EP Turns 5 Years Old. Released on February 7, 2020 just before the pandemic and subsequent lockdown. It seems the world hasn’t been the same since. It’s always a comfort to have music to bring warmth to life, that’s what “Winter Nights” represents in many ways.

The EP was an instant favorite on UK Soul Radio vaulting to the #2 spot on the chart and Number 1 on various stations around the territory.

Devoted fans flocked to purchase the Exclusive Limited Edition CD Digipaks sold out via the online boutique. Nothing like a physical copy for your collection.

Watch the video trailer : Here

Stream or download the “Winter Nights” EP at the streaming platform of your choice. Your support is appreciated.

About the Artist:

Jody Watley is a GRAMMY award winning multi-platinum singer/songwriter/record producer/entrepreneur. Some of her iconic Top 10 singles include “Looking For A New Love” “Don’t You Want Me” the groundbreaking “Friends” ft. Eric B & Rakim, and “Real Love”. 

With a diverse music discography spanning R&B / Pop / Dance /Hip Hop / Electronic / Jazz / Adult Contemporary 80s, 90s, 00s, 10s, 20s Jody Watley is recognized as a style icon and one of the architects of 21st century Pop/R&B/Dance music merged with street style mixed with high fashion.

Jody Watley was 2017 recipient of the Black Music Honors ‘Crossover Music Icon’ Award for her early cultural influence and impact as a solo artist; other accolades include 2007 Billboard Dance Lifetime Achievement Award, along with nominations from the American Music Awards, MTV Awards, NAACP Awards and Soul Train Awards.

In 2018 Billboard Magazine included Jody Watley in the Top 60 Hot 100 Female Artists Of All Time and Top 25 Top Female Dance Artists Of All Time. A 2022 Inductee into the Women’s Songwriters Hall of Fame, Watley has also been recognized by performing rights organization BMI (Broadcast Music). “I’m really most proud to have songwriter and producer be a part of my resume and legacy as an artist.”

To learn more: Jody Watley Bio

Jody Watley’s Iconic Remix Album: YOU WANNA DANCE WITH ME?

Posted on by

The Jody Watley remix album YOU WANNA DANCE WITH ME? assembled remixes from the self-titled debut and the sophomore Larger Than Life was released October 26, 1989.

Photography by Steven Meisel. Art Direction Lynn Robb and Jody Watley

Remix albums were not a popular thing back in the 80s but were gaining traction as artists like Madonna (You Can Dance!), Bobby Brown (Dance!…Ya Know It!), Janet Jackson (Janet Remixed, 1995), and Paula Abdul released sets that catered to their dance loving fans. 

Fans express there isn’t a single skip in the track listing and contains five of her six Billboard Top 10 HOT 100 Hits. The ballad “Everything”, another Top 10 multi chart hit, was not remixed for inclusion. The album was a continuous energetic mix.

YOU WANNA DANCE WITH ME? from the vast Jody Watley Discography peaked at number eighty six on the Billboard 200 album chart and forty eight on the Top R&B Albums chart. Watley took to social media to note she disagreed with MCA Records decision to release the remix album while still promoting her second album “Larger Than Life” still churning out hit singles such as “Real Love” “Friends” featuring Eric B & Rakim and “Everything.”

“I wish they’d released it between my second album and “Affairs of The Heart, but labels do what they do. For me it competed in sales with two albums out at the same time, time flies though and it’s another wonderful music anniversary and milestone – Happy 35th YOU WANNA DANCE WITH ME?!”

Multi-Platinum GRAMMY winning artist, songwriter, producer Jody Watley has an ongoing catalog spanning decades ranging from R&B, Pop, Dance, Rap/Hip Hop, Jazz, Adult Contemporary, House Music, Drum & Bass, Electronica, Ambient/Chill, Contemporary R&B/ Nu Disco/Club, Modern Funk – 80’s, 90’s, 00’s, 10’s, and 20’s.

Beyond her impressive discography, the Chicago native is recognized as a style icon (with features in American Vogue, Vogue Italia, Harper’s Bazaar, Rolling Stone, Essence Magazine, People Magazine and more) as well as one of the architects of 21st century Pop/R&B/Dance music merged with style and artist branding. Ranking consistently in Billboard lists as one of the Top 60 Hot 100 Female Artists of All Time, Top 25 Dance Artists of All Time, Top 100 Black Solo Artists Of All Time.

Stream YOU WANNA DANCE WITH ME? at the digital music platforms of your choice including Spotify with other Jody Watley releases.

Subscribe to the Official Jody Watley Youtube Channel to check out a new video of Jody Watley speaking on the release.

A Message You Need to Hear From Jody Watley

Posted on by

Jody Watley speaks on new single “EVERLASTING” in new video upload. Equally important, the Grammy winning artist, singer, songwriter and producer has an ongoing diverse discography spanning 80s, 90s, 00s, 10s and 20s.

Jody Watley Everlasting: New Summer Glow 2024 Photo and Remixes

Posted on by

Jody Watley shares new photo. The Grammy winning artist, singer/songwriter/producer shows off her timeless beauty and glow for summer 2024. In addition, there are new remixes for her current and timely release.

Current release : “EVERLASTING” with a variety of mixes for this uplifting anthem;

Download, stream, playlist, add to your Jody Watley Music Collection Today!

EVERLASTING – DāM-FunK Remix

EVERLASTING-The Remixes with dance mixes by mixes by Quentin Harris, Slowz, The Illustrious Blacks & Amara Jaguar and Gianpiero XP 

EVERLASTING – Alex Di Ciò Mix

Thanks so much for your support of the music, subscribing to the blog and website!!

Multi-Platinum GRAMMY winning artist, songwriter, producer Jody Watley has an ongoing catalog spanning decades ranging from R&B, Pop, Dance, Rap/Hip Hop, Jazz, Adult Contemporary, House Music, Drum & Bass, Electronica, Ambient/Chill, Contemporary R&B/ Nu Disco/Club, Modern Funk – 80’s, 90’s, 00’s, 10’s, and 20’s. Visit the website Bio & Discography to learn more. You can also Follow Jody Watley on social media verified pages and Subscribe to the Official Jody Watley Youtube Channel!

Jody Watley “EVERLASTING” The Remixes Vaults To Number 2 on iTunes

Posted on by

Jody Watley’s latest dance release “EVERLASTING” The Remixes vaulted into the #2 position on the iTunes Top Dance Albums Chart. This latest milestone made for a remarkable release day for the music legend.

The legendary Quentin Harris leads the charge with his BSF Re-Production, remixing the track with his signature musical touch. The “Everlasting” remix set also features an electro pop rework by French newcomer Slowz, a deep house favorite by NYC’s The Illustrious Blacks & Amara Jaguar ; a funky UK rave up by John “J-C” Carr and Gianpeiero XP’s anthemic Italo-house vibes.

Though the venerable Grammy winning singer/songwriter has had numerous contemporary dance singles on Billboards Hot Dance Club Play Charts, in various decades spanning 80s, 90s, 00s, 10s and 20s. Notably, this is the first Jody Watley Top 2 on the USA iTunes Dance Album Chart since her critically acclaimed “Midnight Lounge’ full length reached #1 Top Dance / Electronica Albums back in 2003.

The original song has taken the music scene by storm, climbing to #2 on the UK Soul Charts and topping many international playlists at #1.

“EVERLASTING’ The Remixes features A&R by longtime colleague Bill Coleman of Peace Bisquit. The company is a multi-tiered, Brooklyn-based company incorporating artist and producer representation, A&R consultancy, film and television music supervision, sound design as well as being a record company.

The original was written and produced by Watley with longtime collaborator – soul and jazz musician Rodney Lee. Additional production by Italy’s renowned DJ/Remix producer Alex Di Ció. The single reached Top 5 in sales in various countries including the USA, UK and Italy.

Avitone Recordings (formed independently by Watley “Fueling Quality Music Since 1995”) adds this release to its ongoing output.

“I just want to thank everyone supporting this collection!” Watley enthusiastically shared on social media.

Dance. Download. Stream. Playlist. Share. Stay EVERLASTING!

Jody Watley Drops Still A Thrill, Takes Us To Paris On This Day in 1987

Posted on by

Released #OTD April 27, 1987

“Still A Thrill” 

Written by: Jody Watley & Andre Cymone

Produced by Andre Cymone, David Z.

Billboard Charts #3 Hot R&B, #8 Dance, #56 Hot 100

The first artist or entity allowed to film a music video in the Paris Opera House, thank you to director Brian Grant.

“I wanted to showcase my power register in the vocal range, initially a concept to present to Grace Jones as a possible duet that didn’t come to fruition. Andre slayed this groove and then I came up with the title, theme melody and lyrics, it was magic and an instant if not underrated funk jam. It was a hit but faltered somewhat on the pop side because it was so different from ‘Looking For A N ew Love’. It was important to me at this time to showcase as well that black girls could be different, edgy, and international.I loved those Duran Duran videos shot on location.

The theme of the video was ‘Paris By Night, it always makes me smile when people tell me they have made it a point to travel to Paris and go to the Opera House and take photo’s on the grand entrance staircase. There is no choreography or choreographer to show me what to do, no stylist to tell me what was cool to wear. All the dancing is freestyle and created in the moment with Tyrone Proctor who I’d known from my Soul Train days as a teenager. Another fact that distinguishes me from other artists at that time – no team of dancers, high style and singular focus. I didn’t want to be like anyone else and was clear of my vision of who I am.”




Watch Jody Watley ‘Still A Thrill” Full Video on Youtube: Here

Hear thoughts on collaborator & producer Andre Cymone:

OTD Day April 21, 2007 – Happy 15th Anniversary Jody Watley “I Want Your Love” The Remixes

Posted on by
Limited Edition CD Single Release.
Promotional Postcard – Jody Watley “I Want Your Love” The Remixes an Avitone Recordings Release

#OTD April 21, 2007 From critically acclaimed full length release  “The Makeover” 

“I Want Your Love” Happy 15th Anniversary to “I Want Your Love – The Remixes”

Debuted on the @billboard Dance chart. The single peaked at #1 US and UK Official Commercial Dance Chart

 Written by: Bernard Edwards, Nile Rodgers

Produced by DJ Spinna

Additional Remixes by Soulcast, Masi + Mello, Morgan Page

Available at all digital platforms.

OTD. March 21, 1987 Jody Watley’s Looking For A New Loves Goes Number 1

Posted on by

Via RnB Soul Effect TV — #OnThisDay March 21st 1987 , “Looking For A New Love” went Number 1 for three weeks on the Billboard Hot R&B charts, Grammy Award Icon Jody Watley solo debut Number #1 hit single.

Written by Jody Watley & Andre Cymone Produced by Andre Cymone & David Z.

The song became one of the biggest Pop and R&B singles of 1987.

The single hit number two for four consecutive weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 in May 1987 and spent three weeks at number-one on the Billboard R&B chart.

It is the only single between 1985 and 1990 in the United States to have spent four weeks in the runner-up position and not have reached Number One.

It ranked number 16 on Billboard’s year-end chart for 1987.

The song also reached number-one on the RPM Singles Chart in Canada.

In 1988 the song was nominated for two Soul Train Music Awards for Best R&B/Soul or Rap Music Video, and Best R&B/Soul Single, Female. She was also nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.

One of the song’s key phrases became a popular saying: “Hasta la vista, baby.” It wound up on innumerable answering machines and was used by Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 1991 film Terminator 2: Judgment Day.

A music video, directed by Brian Grant was released in March 1987 to promote the song. Grant previously made videos for Whitney Houston, Peter Gabriel and Tina Turner.