The year was 1995…you’re watching Bad Boys one of the years more commercially successful movies grossing over 100,000,000 worldwide when you hear the smooth sounds of “Someone to Love”. You recognize the voice of Babyface but who’s that other person? It’s a great song…you need to find out who that is and then you see him…this amazingly handsome “white boy” named Jon B. Before there was Justin Bieber or Justin Timberlake, there was Jon B. We sat down with Jon B. to see where he’s been and what he has going on.
BE: Mr. Jon B! Hello & welcome to Baltimore. Let’s start with where you’ve been? Is there a reason you seemingly “fell off” from mainstream?
JB: All is well thanks. I’ve actually released an album every four years. “Comfortable Swag” was my first independent release on my own label “Vibezelect, Inc.” The album sold more than 20K. We had Shawnette Heard who worked with Janet Jackson to produce the video for that song. It’s different, we all know radio is paid for by the label but my fans really hold me down. They support me.
BE: Ok, let’s play a game of “Fast Five”…I’ll ask five questions…you give me the first thing you think of. Favorite food…
JB: Jerk Chicken
BE: Favorite song on the radio…
JB: Adorn by Miguel
BE: New fad you can do without…
JB: None, I’m good with the culture, its hip-hop. When I first came out, people didn’t know I was white. I was the first white boy who’s hair cut they copied *laughs*I’m a part of the “blue-eyed soul” movement.
BE: *laughs* Ok, the all too unoriginal boxers or briefs question.
JB: *laughs* boxers
BE: Favorite New Artist
JB: I have to say Miguel
BE: I agree…I’m loving Miguel also. Ok…bonus question…is there anyone right now that you would like to collaborate with?
JB: Kanye West and Drake. I’m really a fan. Actually, Drake’s “Cameras” is a sample from my song “Callin on You”. I was really honored by that. It’s a great thing to be bigged up by one of your favorite rappers.
BE: Wow! I didn’t know that. Those are really great answers! Thanks so much. So does Jon B. feel like he’s receiving the attention he deserves?
JB: I’m trying to transcend to a new audience. Being lumped into a category is not where I’m trying to be. I’m honored to be the “dope guy from the 90’s”, but I’m even better now. I do it all from writing to production. I even handle my own Twitter and Instagram *laughs*
BE: Tell us about your style. What is it that makes and maintains Jon B?
JB: My style = growth. I came out at 19…almost 20 years later; I’m going through a metamorphosis. I’m better with my time, my production game is crazy and my fans seem happy with the new album. I have an EPK being released…”Settle Down Type” is the first single off of the “B-Sides Collection”. The album will be available on physical CD as well as digital download on www.jonbworld.com
BE: That’s great! I’ve been listening & I’m excited. I’ve always been a fan. I want to thank you again so much for sitting down with us. Is there anything you would like to add or say to your fans?
JB: I want to thank all of my supporters…I want everyone to visit the website and follow me on Twitter @officialjonb
Would you like a digital download of the new “B-Sides Collection”? Comment below and tell us how much of a Jon B. fan you are! Also, Jon B. will be performing on Valentine’s Day in New Jersey at the S. Orange Performing Arts Center. More information can be found on the website www.jonbworld.com
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