Tag Archives: Jody Watley Images

Celebrating One Year of Jody Watley’s Let’s Dance Album

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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.

Album cover for Jody Watley's 'Let's Dance Vol. 1: Hit Them Beats' featuring a smiling woman with curly hair, wearing a denim jacket and holding a disco ball.
Screenshot of Amazon UK showcasing the #1 Hot New Release in the Dance & Electronic category, featuring the album 'Let's Dance Vol.1 Hit Them Beats' by Judy Watley, priced at £7.99.

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.

About Jody Watley:

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.

Jody Watley’s ‘The Dawn’ Hits #10 on Amazon UK Charts

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Album cover for 'The Dawn (Alex Di Ciò Remix - Radio Edit)' by Jody Watley, featuring a styled portrait of the artist.

A great way to begin the week.

Jody Watley, Alex di Ciò and Avitone team are happy to share that the newest independent release remixed by Alex Di Ciò, “The Dawn,” has reached #10 on Amazon UK Dance & Electronic Hot New Releases (July 6, 2026).

No machine. No hype. Just a commitment to creating quality music that inspires people to dance, groove, and feel good.

Thank you to everyone downloading, listening, sharing, and supporting independent music around the world.

Let the music inspire!

#JodyWatley #TheDawn #AlexDiCio #IndependentArtist #IndependentMusic #NewMusic #DanceMusic #ElectronicMusic #AmazonMusic #MusicIndustry #FeelGoodMusic #SummerOfMusic

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.

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, Gold video hits compilation and more in the USA alone as a solo artist. 

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. 

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: Here

Jody Watley Special July Message and Update

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In this exclusive Wattage Thoughts YouTube Short, Jody Watley shares a heartfelt reminder: appreciate the people who truly see you, hear you, understand you, and encourage your growth.

Then pay it forward.

Be someone who listens deeply, celebrates others, and empowers the special people in your life. A few sincere words of encouragement can inspire confidence, hope, and positive change.

A smiling woman with curly hair wearing a straw hat and sunglasses, promoting a video titled 'Jody Watley - A Simple Reminder That Can Change...' on YouTube.
Screenshot

Subscribe for more monthly Wattage Thoughts—exclusive inspirational YouTube Shorts from Jody Watley featuring wisdom, creativity, music, and encouragement. Watch it Here:

Illuminate. Elevate. Empower. Welcome to Wattage Thoughts with Jody Watley.

There’s also a new summer merch drop in tandem with the new single “The Dawn” Alex Di Ciò 

A woman with long, curly hair wearing a yellow t-shirt featuring a graphic of a woman and a shiny leopard print skirt, posing confidently with sunglasses.
Jody Watley – The Dawn Unisex T-shirt in Yellow. Dress it up or down!

Shop the collection now:

https://direct.distrokid.com/jodywatley

“The Dawn” Extended Alex Di Ciò Remix will arrive this month for your continued summer and beyond listening pleasure!

Blending sophisticated dance-pop, funk, soul, and contemporary electronic grooves, The Dawn showcases an artist who continues to evolve while staying true to her creative vision, with a breakout #1 UK Soul Chart breakout and the Top 5 streamed Jody Watley single on Spotify in June in the midst of some of her biggest classic hits – quite a feat.

For those just discovering Jody Watley’s current music, this is not a comeback—it’s a continuation of decades in the mix. From groundbreaking solo classics 80s, 90s and GRAMMY-winning success to independent releases, EPs, albums, and charting singles throughout the 2000s into the now.

Jody Watley remains a vibrant force in contemporary music with an ongoing discography to back it up.

July also marks the one year anniversary of the release of “Let’s Dance Vol. 1 – Hit Them Beats” released on July 9, 2025 and vaulted to #1 USA iTunes Top Dance / Electronic and Amazon UK Albums.

Close-up of Jody Watley smiling brightly, wearing vibrant makeup and a denim jacket, holding a disco ball, with text overlay that reads 'Jody Watley Let's Dance Vol 1 Hit Them Beats' in colorful fonts.
Screenshot of the iTunes charts showing Jody Watley's album 'Let's Dance Vol. 1 Hit Them Beats' at #1 on the Top 40 US Dance Albums list.
"Let's Dance Vol. 1 - Hit Them Beats" released on July 9, 2025 and vaulted to #1 USA iTunes Top Dance / Electronic and Amazon UK Albums.

As she says: – “Let The Music Inspire.”

Streaming at the digital platforms of your choice.

About The Artist:

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). 

An award-winning songwriter (BMI Medal of Honor, Women’s Songwriters Hall of Fame), Watley is ranked by Billboard among the Top 25 Dance Artists of All Time and Top 65 Hot 100 Female Artists of All Time.

Additional achievements include Black Music Honors Crossover Music Icon, the 2022 Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and YouTube Silver Creator Award for the Jody Watley YouTube Channel 2025.

Learn More: About Jody Watley

Get ready to groove to Jody Watley’s Hot New Single “The Dawn”

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Album cover featuring Jody Watley, with a glamorous portrait showcasing her wearing a sequined top, surrounded by colorful light effects. The title 'THE DAWN' and 'ALEX DI CIO REMIX' are prominently displayed.

Jody Watley’s hot new single “The Dawn” (Alex Di Ciò Remix) continues its international momentum as Jamm FM Netherlands names it Record Of The Week, following its rise to #1 Breaker on the UK Soul Chart.

Blending sophisticated dance-pop, funk, soul, and contemporary electronic grooves, The Dawn showcases an artist who continues to evolve while staying true to her creative vision.

For those just discovering Jody Watley’s current music, this is not a comeback—it’s a continuation. From groundbreaking solo classics and GRAMMY-winning success to independent releases, EPs, albums, and charting singles throughout the 2000s and beyond, Jody Watley remains a vibrant force in contemporary music.

As she says:

“Let The Music Inspire.”

Stream • Download • Playlist • Share

Discover | Revisit the Jody Watley Discography

About The Artist:

GRAMMY® Award-winning singer, songwriter, producer, and independent label founder Jody Watley is an iconic force in contemporary dance, electronic, soul, and pop music. A trailblazing solo artist whose influence spans generations, she is recognized by Billboard among the Top Female Artists, Top Dance Artists, and Top Black Solo Artists of All Time.

With classics and iconic catalog including “Looking For A New Love,” “Real Love,” “Friends,ft Eric B & Rakim” and “Don’t You Want Me,” alongside acclaimed recent releases through Avitone Recordings, Watley continues to blend innovation, sophistication, and groove into music made for today.

Black Music Month Rewind: Jody Watley Makes Impact 1987

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Magazine cover of Jet featuring Jody Watley, smiling and wearing a black crop top with a silver belt, showcasing a stylish pose.
Jody Watley – JET Magazine 1987 Cover – Photography Isaac Sutton

On June 22, 1987, Jody Watley appeared on the cover of JET Magazine, one of the most influential publications in Black culture and media.

The feature arrived during a landmark year for the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter as her self-titled debut solo album established her as one of the most exciting artists in contemporary music. Released earlier that year on MCA Records, Jody Watley delivered a series of hit singles that showcased her distinctive blend of R&B, pop, dance music, fashion, and innovation.

The album produced multiple Billboard Top 10 hits, including the No. 1 R&B and No. 1 Dance smash “Looking For A New Love,” along with “Still A Thrill,” “Don’t You Want Me,” and “Some Kind Of Lover.” The success of the project demonstrated Watley’s creative vision as an artist, songwriter, and trendsetter, helping to redefine the possibilities for women in popular music.

At a time when a JET Magazine cover represented an important cultural milestone, the feature recognized a rising star whose influence extended beyond music into fashion, style, and contemporary culture.

The cover captured a pivotal moment in a career that would continue to break barriers and set new standards. Nearly four decades later, Jody Watley remains celebrated for her artistry, innovation, and enduring impact on music and culture.

Her newest release is “The Dawn” #1 Record of the Week on UK Soul Radio.

#OnThisDay #JodyWatley #JETMagazine #MusicHistory #BlackMusicMonth

About The Artist: Jody Watley

Producer • Songwriter • Creative Entrepreneur • Independent Music Pioneer

GRAMMY® Award-winning recording artist, songwriter, producer, entrepreneur, and founder of Avitone Recordings.

For more than four decades, Jody Watley has built a career defined by innovation, creative independence, and cultural influence. As a pioneering solo artist, she helped redefine the intersections of music, fashion, visual storytelling, and popular culture while earning multi-platinum success, chart-topping hits, and industry recognition including induction into the Women’s Songwriters Hall of Fame and inclusion in Billboard’s lists of the Top Female Artists, Top Dance Artists, and Top Black Solo Artists of All Time.

In 1995, Watley founded Avitone Recordings, establishing an independent platform focused on artistic ownership, strategic partnerships, and creative freedom. Through Avitone, she has continued to develop new music, multimedia projects, brand collaborations, and innovative approaches to audience engagement while maintaining a global presence across streaming, digital media, live performance, and content creation.

Today, Jody Watley remains committed to creating forward-thinking music spanning dance, electronic, soul, and pop while championing authenticity, innovation, and long-term artistic sustainability.

Revisit and Discover her Ongoing Discography; https://jodywatley.net/discography/

Jody Watley’s The Dawn: Record Of The Week Recognition

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Image promoting Jody Watley's song 'The Dawn' (Alex Di Ció Remix) which is ranked #1 on the UK Soul Chart Breakers as of June 15, 2026. The chart includes other artists and their tracks including Drake

Jody Watley’s “The Dawn (Alex Di Ciò Remix)” Reaches No. 1 UK Soul Chart Breaker & Earns Record Of The Week Honors (June 15, 2026) . Continuing an iconic legacy rooted in quality music and style.

Additional UK radio support this week:

Record Of The Week — Starpoint Radio (UK)

Record Of The Week — Sunshine Radio (UK)

Written by Jody Watley.and Mark de Clive Lowe

Produced & Mixed by Alex Di Ciò. Another independent release via Avitone Recordings

“The Dawn (Alex Di Ciò Remix)” is available now on all major digital music platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes, Amazon Music, Beatport, TIDAL, and YouTube Music.

Thank you to DJs, radio programmers, music lovers, and fans worldwide for the continued support.

Support the music:

Stream

Download

Share

Add to Your Playlists

Add to Your Jody Watley Collection: Here

A smiling individual with curly hair wearing a yellow t-shirt featuring an image and text of Jody Watley.
Jody Watley – The Dawn T-shirt

Jody Watley New Music Alert June 2026

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Promotional image featuring Jody Watley with the release date of her remix 'The Dawn' on June 12, surrounded by colorful, vibrant graphics.

New Music & Merch Alert! 

The new Jody Watley single “The Dawn” arrives JUNE 12 on digital music platforms worldwide.

Following the success of “Let’s Dance Vol. 1 – Hit Them Beats” in 2025 #1 iTunes USA Top Dance Electronic Albums and Amazon Music UK. The acclaimed 2024 single “EVERLASTING” with mixes by Alex Di Ciò & Dam-Funk + dance remixes that reached #2 iTunes Top Dance Electronic Albums Chart, the Jody Watley Discography continues to evolve.

“The Dawn” is the latest preview from the forthcoming EP “Just Groove”—a feel-timeless blend of soulful rhythms.

New Merchandise Available too!

A black t-shirt featuring an album cover design with a portrait of a woman wearing a shimmery top, titled 'THE DAWN' by Jody Watley, along with the text 'ALEX DJ REMIX'.

https://direct.distrokid.com/jodywatley

Watch New Message: Here

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, 2  R&B #1s and genre-spanning success across R&B, Pop, Dance, Downtempo Electronica and Jazz-80s, 90s, 2000-Present.

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, an inductee in Women’s Songwriters Hall of Fame + more; her influence continues and goes back as far as her days as a teenager as one of the show Soul Train’s most popular and trendsetting artists—5 decades strong as an artist, she remains an inspiration to many. 

Jody Watley New Spring Drop – Let’s Dance

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A person with long curly hair wearing oversized sunglasses and a sequined jacket, posing for a selfie while showcasing a T-shirt featuring a photo of a smiling woman and the text 'CODY WATLEY' and 'LET'S DANCE.'
Jody Watley. Let’s Dance Vol. 1 T-shirt – Make it Your Own!

Jody Watley’s latest album Let’s Dance Vol. 1 – Hit Them Beats energy isn’t just an album—it’s a mindset and a mantra to keep it moving. From adding to your playlists to your personal style statements, celebrate the spirit of Let’s Dance Vol. 1 (Hit Them Beats) in your own way.

The official collection is all about expressing your connection to the music, showing support for Grammy winning Icon Jody Watley and her sustained independence 40 plus years as a solo artist and entrepreneur—navigating the dance of life, perseverance and business.

Wear it. Share it. Dress it up or down!

A smiling woman with long, curly hair wearing a dark t-shirt featuring a graphic of a famous singer, against a light background.
Jody Watley – Let’s Dance Unisex T. Dress it Up or Down. Make it Your Own.

Explore the collection:

https://direct.distrokid.com/jodywatley

And if you haven’t yet—press play, add 2025’s #1 iTunes and Amazon Music UK Dance Electronica Album Let’s Dance Volume 1 – Hit Them Beats, released via her Avitone label celebrating the 30th Anniversary of forming the label; to your playlist. Keep the music in motion.

Just Push Play for a Non Stop Mix. Jody Watley “Let’s Dance Vol. 1 – Hit Them Beats”

Exploring Jody Watley’s RIAA Gold Video Classics Vol. 1

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A VHS tape of Jody Watley's 'Video Classics, Volume 1' with a colorful cover featuring Watley in a yellow top and blue jeans, posing with her arms raised.

Explore the lasting impact of Jody Watley’s Video Classics, Vol. 1 (1991), the RIAA Gold-certified music video collection that helped redefine the MTV era. From groundbreaking visuals and high-fashion imagery to iconic hits like “Looking for a New Love” and “Friends,” discover how Watley became a pioneering force in music video history and visual storytelling.

Long before visual albums became the norm, Jody Watley was setting the standard. 

Jody Watley helped transform the intersection of music and fashion with Video Classics, Vol. 1. This retrospective highlights the cultural significance, visual artistry, and enduring influence of one of the first major music video compilations released by a Black female artist.

Jody Watley: Video Classics Vol. 1 (1991) is an RIAA Gold Certified music video compilation, groundbreaking as one of the first by a Black female artist.

Released via MCA Records on VHS and Laser Disc, it featured music videos from her early multiplatinum solo albums, including iconic hits like “Looking For A New Love” “Friends” featuring Eric B & Rakim, and the 6 time MTV VMA nominated video “Real Love” alongside insightful interviews discussing her visual style and video inspirations specific to each director and filming on location in London, England and Paris, France.

  • Tracks Included: “Looking for a New Love,” “Still a Thrill,” “Don’t You Want Me,” “Some Kind of Lover,” “Most of All,” “Real Love,” and “Friends”.

  • Impact: Validated Watley as a visual innovator in the MTV era and highlighted her collaborations with directors.

  • Significance: Showcased her transition from Shalamar to a pioneering solo dance-pop artist with high-fashion imagery.

Revisit the videos or discover for the first time on The Official Jody Watley Youtube Channel.

About The Artist:

Jody Watley is a GRAMMY-winning artist, multi-platinum singer, songwriter, producer, and global style icon.

Named Best New Artist in 1988, she ranks among Billboard’s Top 60 Female Artists of All Time, with six Top 10 Hot 100 hits – including iconic hits “Looking For A New Love,” “Don’t You Want Me,” “Friends” featuring Eric B. & Rakim, and “Real Love” and more.

She’s also earned seven No. 1 Dance hits, two No. 1 R&B singles, and success across R&B, pop, dance, electronica, and jazz—building a genre-spanning catalog that continues to evolve.

A true visionary in music and fashion, Watley broke barriers for Black women globally—becoming the first artist and woman of color to appear on the cover of a Japanese fashion magazine, and among the first artists to merge music, branding, and lifestyle with her Dance To Fitness movement.

Recognized by Vogue, People, and Harper’s Bazaar, her influence extends beyond music through iconic campaigns for GAP, LA Eyeworks, and Saks Fifth Avenue.

Her honors include Black Music Honors’ Crossover Music Icon Award, induction into the Women Songwriters Hall of Fame, and multiple nominations from the American Music Awards, MTV VMAs and NAACP Image Awards.

A pioneer of independence, she founded her own label, Avitone, in 1995—well ahead of today’s artist-owned movement.

Decades into her career, Jody Watley continues to thrive with critically acclaimed, chart-topping releases. Her latest album, Let’s Dance Vol. 1, reached No. 1 on iTunes Dance and Amazon UK charts.

Her influence endures—timeless, trailblazing, and still setting her own standard – authentically, independently. 

Jody Watley Shares Easter Message On Renewal, Decluttering Your Life

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A woman wearing a large straw hat and a light-colored shirt smiles brightly against a clear blue sky.
Jody Watley. All Rights Reserved 2026 Avid Music Inc

Jody Watley shares a special Wattage Thoughts message this Easter Sunday—reflecting on renewal, spring cleaning, and the importance of decluttering your life, not just your home. 🌸✨ Watch NEW Youtube Video Short: Here

A reminder that growth begins within—clear the space, reset your energy, and move forward with purpose, faith, and gratitude.

Celebrate the season of renewal with inspiration from Jody Watley

#JodyWatley #EasterSunday #WattageThoughts #SpringCleaning #Renewal #Motivation #Shorts #Inspiration #Mindset

About The Artist:

Jody Watley is a Best New Artist GRAMMY®️ award winner, 3 x Solo Nominee,  Multiple -platinum selling singer /songwriter/producer with a diverse ongoing music discography spanning decades.

R&B / Pop / Dance /House Music/ Downtempo Electronica / Jazz – 80s, 90s, 2000s. 

Jody Watley recognized as a style icon (VOGUE, People Magazine, Harper’s Bazaar +more) ranked by Billboard as one of the Top 60 Female Artists of All Time, Top 25 Dance Artists of All Time, Top 100 Black Solo Artists Of All Time. Crossover Music Icon from Black Music Honors 2017, Inductee in Women’s Songwriter Hall of Fame + more.

As a solo artist, Jody Watley has amassed 6 Billboard Hot 100 Top Ten Singles including iconic chart toppers “Looking For A New Love”, “Don’t You Want Me”, “Real Love” and the groundbreaking R&B/Rap collaboration “Friends” featuring Eric B. and Rakim. 6 Top 10 Hot 100 Singles, 13 # 1 Dance Singles, which led to a Billboard Magazine Dance Chart Lifetime Achievement Award;  2 R&B Number 1’s, 15 Top 40 Singles, Gold and platinum albums in the USA, Canada and Asia, a million selling fitness video and video compilation. 

2007 Billboard Dance Lifetime Achievement, 2017 recipient of the Black Music Honors Crossover Music Icon Award and nominations from the American Music Awards, MTV Awards, NAACP Awards and Soul Train Awards.

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 including 2025’s “Let’s Dance Vol. 1 Hit Them Beats” which vaulted to #1 on iTunes Top Dance /Electronic Albums on July 11 and Amazon Music UK’s Top Dance Electronic Albums,

iTunes chart showing Jody Watley at number one for the album 'Let's Dance Vol. 1 Hit Them Beats'