New Jack Swing artists includes singers and bands from 1987 to 1994 who performed in the New Jack Swing style, a hybrid style popular from the late-1980s into the mid-1990s, which fuses the rhythms, samples and production techniques of hip-hop with the urban contemporary sound ofR&B. The new jack swing style developed as many previous R&B styles did, by combining elements of older styles with newer trends. It uses mellifluously soulful solo or harmonizing vocals sung over rhythms and "street" beats derived from urban musical influences. The sound of new jack swing comes from the hip hop "swing" beats created by drum machine, and hardware samplers, which was popular during the golden age of hip hop, withcontemporary R&B style singing.
During the decade of the 90’s Mariah Carey or Boyz II Men had the hottest song in the country 5 out of the 10 years. These artists claimed the top spot on the Billboard music charts on the date September 25th during the following years:
1997 ... "Honey" by Mariah Carey 1995 ... "Fantasy" by Mariah Carey 1994 ... I'll Make Love To You by Boyz II Men 1993 ... Dreamlover by Mariah Carey 1992 ... End Of The Road by Boyz II Men
Sept. 19, 1952 - Nile Rodgers of Chic is born in New York.
Robin Thicke
Tuesday 09-16-2008 4:06pm PT
Robin Thicke was born to vocalist and actress Gloria Loring and entertainer Alan Thicke (best known for his role on the sitcom Growing Pains). At a young age, Thicke showed an interest in music and has often cited classic soul singers like Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder as his influences. At the ages of 4 and 6, Thicke was a guest actor on several episodes of The Wonder Years and Growing Pains (Such as the episode "Mom of the Year". He is the kid in the classroom talking about Ben).
Rock 'n' roll legend Chubby Checker's signature song "The Twist" has been voted the most popular single ever in the history of the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
He's known as the Godfather of Funk and is one of the longest-lasting artists ever in the genre. The hits he had a part in making include "Atomic Dog," "Flashlight" and "One Nation Under a Groove."
2. Bootsy Collins
Although Bootsy's probably best-known for his outrageous costumes and crazy sunglasses, he's also a Funk bass pioneer.
Bootsy Collins
3. James Brown
James Brown may be the Godfather of Soul, but his 1965 hit "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag" is widely regarded as one of the first Funk songs. JB's also recorded a multitude of Funk tracks during his career, including "Say It Loud (I'm Black and I'm Proud)," and "I Got the Feelin'."
4. Parliment/Funkadelic
Parliment and it's close relative band, Funkadelic, is (are) arguably the best Funk ensemble ever. Essential songs by P-Funk include "Flashlight," (by Parliment) and "Get Off Your Ass and Jam" (by Funkadelic).
5. Prince
Like James Brown, Prince is more known for his R&B work, but he's more than dabbled in the Funk all his career. Some of his more notable Funk tracks include "Musicology," 'Black Sweat" and "Housequake."
6. Rick James
Rick James was the biggest Funk star of the '80s and is known for such hits as "Super Freak," "Cold Blooded" and "Give It to Me Baby."
7. Sly & The Famly Stone
During their late 1960s to early 1970s heyday, Sly Stone's group was one of the most popular Soul-Funk bands on the planet. Recommended songs: "Family Affair" and "Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)."
8. Zapp/Roger
Troutman
Zapp (aka The Zapp Band) was formed by the Troutman brothers in the late 1970s. The band was best-known for it's massive hit "More Bounce to the Ounce." Tragically, the group's lead singer, Roger Troutman, was murdered in 1999.
9. The Red Hot Chili Peppers
Though considered by most to be a rock band, the Chili Peppers - and particularly bassist Flea - admit to being heavily influenced by Funk, and have collaborated with numerous Funk artists over the years.
10. The Brand New Heavies
Part acid jazz, part R&B, part Funk, The Brand New Heavies are one of the most versatile Funk-related bands out there. For a sample of their best Funk music, check out their Allabouthefunk album.
Music History: Sept 5
Friday 09-05-2008 10:38am PT
September 5, 1997 - R&B newcomer Erykah Badu finds her hands literally full at the 1997 Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards as she garners an unprecedented four honors. Badu is named best R&B/soul or rap new artist, R&B/soul album of the year, the solo accolade for her debut set "Baduizm," and best R&B/ soul single, solo and song of the honors for "On & On."