Épisodes

  • JABARI: on Building an R&B Empire, Business, and the Future of the Culture

    JABARI: on Building an R&B Empire, Business, and the Future of the Culture
    Jan 25 2026
    In this episode of Can We Talk R&B, host Ian sits down with Jabari Johnson, founder and CEO of RNBOnly, the touring brand that has sold over 750,000 tickets without a traditional recording artist. Jabari walks through his journey from Bronx hip-hop kid to label executive, party promoter, and ultimately the architect of one of the biggest R&B experiences in the world.Ian and Jabari break down how RNBOnly was born from late-night R&B sets at hip-hop parties, what it means to build a “Non-Artist Touring Entity,” why R&B is spiritual and rooted in Black love, how the “Anniversary (A Cappella)” collaboration came together, and where the genre is headed next.If you care about culture, entrepreneurship, and the future of R&B, this conversation is for you. 🧧 Support the Show: https://www.patreon.com/canwetalkrnb 📱Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & iHeart Now!!!! ✅Don’t forget to stream & rate us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and iHeart - CLICK LINKS BELOW! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4zfIA072HwTapLg019UDcM iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-can-we-talk-rb-119355435/ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/can-we-talk-rnb-podcast/id1703170636 📲Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB Hosted & Created by: Ian Von | www.instagram.com/IanVonMusic Produced by: Launch Pod Studio | www.instagram.com/LaunchPodStudio Edited By: Lazy Pickle Studio | www.instagram.com/LazyPickleStudios Chapters: 0:00 Intro 2:01 Ian’s First R&B Only Experience 3:41 What Is R&B Only? Scale & Category 5:56 750K+ Tickets Sold & “Build It and They Will Come” 7:11 Jabari’s Musical DNA: Hip-Hop Roots, R&B Household 9:28 College Hustle: Managing & Interviewing Early Stars 11:12 Post-Grad Reality Check & Landing at Capitol Records 12:32 Label Days: Learning from Big Records 14:05 Leaving the Label, Documentaries & Funding Life with Parties 16:01 The Birth of R&B Only: From “Cool-Down Set” to Main Event 17:29 Why R&B Feels Different & The Energy Shift 19:20 Where the Business Mindset Came From 21:15 Building Alone, Tenacity & Independence vs. Label Dependency 23:01 Learning on the Fly, Now Supercharged by AI 25:03 Favorite R&B Song (Right Now) & Upcoming BET Weekend Show 29:08 Set-Up for the “Anniversary” Project Conversation 30:06 Creating the “Anniversary” A Cappella: Inspiration & Casting 33:05 Building the Vocal Ensemble 35:02 Recording During LA Fires & Turning a Promo Into a Record 38:01 Live Integration & Smart Rollout 39:04 Respecting Classics & Getting the Tony! Toni! Toné! Co-Sign 40:21 Standards, Purists, and the Current Crop of Artists 43:01 Cleo Sol & Quiet Dominance 44:03 Technology, Floodgates & The Need for a Standard 47:06 R&B as Black Love & Why Labels Don’t Get It 47:47 The Full Spectrum of R&B Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 h et 1 min
  • The Arti$t : Staying Yourself, A Guide to Authentic R&B in a Viral Era

    The Arti$t : Staying Yourself, A Guide to Authentic R&B in a Viral Era
    Jan 20 2026
    In this episode, Ian Von sits down with rising R&B powerhouse The Arti$t—a singer/songwriter from Newark, New Jersey—whose soulful pen and modern R&B sonics have already earned co-signs from Maxwell, Queen Latifah, and more. They unpack her journey from hoop dreams to headlining tours, how Jersey shaped her grind and spirit, and why authenticity is the core of her music. The Arti$t breaks down the making of her projects “Archives” and “Who I Am,” the breakout success of “Sober,” and the creative leap of her single “Ghost.” From dealing with heartbreak in the middle of an arena tour to carving her own lane in a content-saturated era, this conversation is a deep dive into what it means to be the future of Black music while staying grounded, prayed up, and true to self. 🧧 Support the Show: https://www.patreon.com/canwetalkrnb 📲Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB Hosted & Created by: Ian Von | www.instagram.com/IanVonMusic Produced by: Launch Pod Studio | www.instagram.com/LaunchPodStudio Links: 📱www.instagram.com/CanWeTalkRnB 📱www.twitter.com/CanWeTalkRnB 📱https://www.tiktok.com/@canwetalkrnb 🎥 www.youtube.com/canwetalkrnb #canwetalkrnbpodcast #rnb #podcast #rnbmusic #rnbvibesTime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    29 min
  • Bryan Michael Cox : Space Over Spectacle - The Science of R&B Producing

    Bryan Michael Cox : Space Over Spectacle - The Science of R&B Producing
    Jan 12 2026
    In this episode, Ian Von sits down with legendary producer and songwriter Bryan-Michael Cox for a masterclass in musicianship and hustle. From Houston roots to crafting hits with Usher and Jermaine Dupri, he breaks down how he quietly became one of R&B’s key architects. B. Cox shares how he moved to Atlanta, cold-called studios, earned a Noontime internship, and leveraged it into full studio access before anyone even heard his beats. They dive into the difference between musicianship and producing, the power of simplicity, the science of songwriting, and the story behind “U Got It Bad.” A blueprint episode for aspiring producers, songwriters, and R&B lovers alike. This is one episode you don’t want to miss! 🎶✨ 🧧 Support the Show: https://www.patreon.com/canwetalkrnb 📱Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & iHeart Now!!!! ✅Don’t forget to stream & rate us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and iHeart - CLICK LINKS BELOW! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4zfIA072HwTapLg019UDcM iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-can-we-talk-rb-119355435/ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/can-we-talk-rnb-podcast/id1703170636 📲Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB Hosted & Created by: Ian Von | www.instagram.com/IanVonMusic Produced by: Launch Pod Studio | www.instagram.com/LaunchPodStudio Edited By: Lazy Pickle Studio | www.instagram.com/LazyPickleStudios Timestamps: 00:00 Opening Drop & Host Intro 00:31 Giving B. Cox His Flowers 01:59 Why B. Cox Chose To Be “Unsung” 02:45 From Producer “Sound” To Producer “Tag” 05:06 Rodney Jerkins & The Birth of the R&B Tag 05:35 Jermaine Dupri’s Legacy & Work Ethic 06:39 JD’s Focus vs. Side Hustles 07:40 The Group Ideal & Industry Politics 08:44 Discovering the Name “Brian Michael Cox” 09:27 Early Musical Roots in Houston 12:17 Houston as a Musical City 13:39 Networks, School & Destiny’s Child Origins 15:05 First Stab at the Industry: Mailing Demos 16:26 Crossroads: LA with Greg vs. Finding His Own Path 18:49 Love Story That Led to Atlanta 20:28 Getting Mom’s Blessing & The Move to Atlanta 21:26 Housing Struggles & Finding a Roommate 22:23 Arriving With a Bag of DATs & Calling Studios 23:18 The Noontime Flyer Breakthrough 24:45 Persistence Pays Off: Landing the Meeting 25:53 Relearning Tools: From Computer to MPC 27:04 Learning from Jazzy Pha, Teddy Bishop & Eric Roberson 27:58 Building a Reputation at the Studio 29:00 Leveraging Yourself: Trading Pay for Access 29:28 “You Need to Sign This Kid” 30:01 Musician vs. Producer: Two Different Jobs 30:35 The Science of Producing & Songwriting 31:24 From Master Musician to Accessible Producer 32:08 Listeners Feel More Than They Hear 32:36 Quincy Jones on Space, Density & Blueprint 34:03 Overproducing vs. Serving the Song 35:01 Case Study: Usher – “U Got It Bad” 35:58 Lesson from JD: Muting the Kitchen Sink 37:10 Writing from the Core & JD/Usher Chemistry 38:01 Finding His Role: From Keys to Vocal Production 38:48 JD as Musician vs. Producer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 h et 12 min
  • Prince “Publishing Guru” Howard: How To Make Money in Music Publishing?

    Prince “Publishing Guru” Howard: How To Make Money in Music Publishing?
    Mar 25 2025
    In this enlightening episode of the "Can We Talk R&B" podcast, host Ian Von engages with Prince Howard, an influential figure in music publishing, to explore the evolving landscape of the music industry. They discuss the financial dynamics behind owning music masters and the importance of publishing, emphasizing how independent artists can leverage these for maximum income. The conversation also celebrates the foundational influences of legendary artists and the strategic pathways modern musicians can take to achieve success. This is one episode you don’t want to miss! 🎶✨ 🧧 Support the Show: https://www.patreon.com/canwetalkrnb 📱Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & iHeart Now!!!! ✅Don’t forget to stream & rate us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and iHeart - CLICK LINKS BELOW! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4zfIA072HwTapLg019UDcM iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-can-we-talk-rb-119355435/ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/can-we-talk-rnb-podcast/id1703170636 📲Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB Hosted & Created by: Ian Von | www.instagram.com/IanVonMusic Produced by: Launch Pod Studio | www.instagram.com/LaunchPodStudio Links: 📱www.instagram.com/CanWeTalkRnB 📱www.twitter.com/CanWeTalkRnB 📱https://www.tiktok.com/@canwetalkrnb 🎥 www.youtube.com/canwetalkrnb #canwetalkrnbpodcast #rnb #podcast #rnbmusic #rnbvibes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    53 min
  • S!MONE: From Bel-Air to Breaking New Music

    S!MONE: From Bel-Air to Breaking New Music
    Mar 11 2025
    In this episode of the Can We Talk? R&B podcast, host Ian Von sits down with singer and actress S!MONE for an engaging conversation. They delve into S!MONE's multifaceted journey in the entertainment industry, discussing her dual passion for music and acting, and the challenges artists face when balancing commercial success with personal artistic integrity. S!MONE opens up about her independence as an indie artist, navigating the evolving landscape of content consumption, and the importance of staying authentic and resilient in her craft. She also shares behind-the-scenes insights from filming Bel-Air alongside Will Smith and her co-stars, offering a glimpse into her acting experience and the collaborative spirit of the show. This is one episode you don’t want to miss! 🎶✨ 🧧 Support the Show: https://www.patreon.com/canwetalkrnb 📱Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & iHeart Now!!!! ✅Don’t forget to stream & rate us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and iHeart - CLICK LINKS BELOW! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4zfIA072HwTapLg019UDcM iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-can-we-talk-rb-119355435/ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/can-we-talk-rnb-podcast/id1703170636 📲Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB Hosted & Created by: Ian Von | www.instagram.com/IanVonMusic Produced by: Launch Pod Studio | www.instagram.com/LaunchPodStudio Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Ian introduces the episode 00:02:12 – Ian introduces Simone Jones, discussing her background and her work on Bel-Air. 00:03:31 – Inspirations and her upbringing in Greensboro 00:04:40 – Gospel and R&B influence. 00:06:16 – Simone reflects on discovering her passion for music and acting through musical theater. 00:10:10 – Early Broadway experiences, training her to embrace auditions and improve her craft. 00:16:16 – Balancing her roles on Bel-Air and the surprise of her music being featured on the show. 00:20:18 – Simone discusses being inspired by other artists and staying true to herself in her music. 00:28:00 – She reflects on the storytelling aspect of both her music and acting. 00:32:02 – Simone shares insights on her independent music journey, including her approach to self-releasing music and finding the right team. 00:33:00 – They discuss the lessons learned and challenges faced as an independent artist. 00:35:39 – Simone talks about her learning process with mixing and the experience of creating music independently. 00:38:27 – Ian and Simone discuss her song "Matter of Time," its creation, and its personal significance. 00:41:51 – They discuss the power of a good chorus and how Simone’s experiences shape her live performances. 00:42:58 – Simone shares her experience touring and forming meaningful connections in both music and acting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 h
  • Estelle Talks UK R&B, ‘American Boy,’ and Her New Music

    Estelle Talks UK R&B, ‘American Boy,’ and Her New Music
    Mar 4 2025
    On the milestone 50th episode of Can We Talk R&B, Ian Von celebrates with special guest Estelle. They explore her early upbringing, the UK R&B scene. Estelle also talks about collaborating and being signed to John Legend, the creation of ‘American Boy,’ how Kanye West ended up on the track, and gives insight into her latest music. You don’t want to miss this one! 🧧 Support the Show: https://www.patreon.com/canwetalkrnb 📱Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & iHeart Now!!!! ✅Don’t forget to stream & rate us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and iHeart - CLICK LINKS BELOW! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4zfIA072HwTapLg019UDcM iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-can-we-talk-rb-119355435/ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/can-we-talk-rnb-podcast/id1703170636 📲Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB Hosted & Created by: Ian Von | www.instagram.com/IanVonMusic Produced by: Launch Pod Studio | www.instagram.com/LaunchPodStudio Time Stamps 00:00:00 - Introduction to the episode by Ian Von 00:00:04 - Initial conversation about Kanye West and Estelle's collaboration 00:00:21 - Estelle talks about her connections with John Legend and Kanye West past projects 00:00:36 - Meeting dynamics with Kanye West 00:02:00 - Estelle reflects on falling in love with R&B 00:02:55 - Discussion on music influences from UK artists 00:06:56 - Estelle shares her experience breaking into the US market 00:09:05 - Challenges faced and successes in expanding her audience 00:16:28 - Changes in the music industry over the years 00:23:28 - Estelle describes working with John Legend and Kanye West 00:28:14 - Discussion on Estelle's radio show with Apple Music 00:33:31 - Estelle's memorable moments performing in front of her family 00:34:35 - Reflections on family support and personal achievements 00:35:00 - Estelle's perspective on being an inspiration Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 h et 5 min
  • Case: From NYC to Timeless R&B Hits, Industry Shifts & Grammy Controversy

    Case: From NYC to Timeless R&B Hits, Industry Shifts & Grammy Controversy
    Feb 25 2025
    On this episode, Case joins Can We Talk R&B for an unforgettable conversation! He takes us back to his early days in NYC, sharing his journey through the music industry and how things have changed over the years. Case also weighs in on Irv Gotti’s recent passing, Babyface being disrespected at the Grammys red carpet, and the impact of his timeless ‘90s and 2000s hits. Plus, he sets the record straight on being romantically linked to Mary J. Blige, his recent surprise appearance at Usher’s show in ATL, and so much more. Don’t miss this deep dive into R&B history! This is one episode you don’t want to miss! 🎶✨ 🧧 Support the Show: https://www.patreon.com/canwetalkrnb 📱Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & iHeart Now!!!! ✅Don’t forget to stream & rate us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and iHeart - CLICK LINKS BELOW! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4zfIA072HwTapLg019UDcM iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-can-we-talk-rb-119355435/ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/can-we-talk-rnb-podcast/id1703170636 📲Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB Hosted & Created by: Ian Von | www.instagram.com/IanVonMusic Produced by: Launch Pod Studio | www.instagram.com/LaunchPodStudio Timestamps: 00:00:00 - 00:00:08: Introduction by Ian Von, the R&B Ambassador 00:00:21 - 00:00:29: Case discusses the blurring of hip hop and R&B 00:00:30 - 00:00:44: Conversation on auto-tune's impact on music 00:00:45 - 00:01:10: Introduction of Case, a legacy R&B artist 00:01:11 - 00:01:22: Case talks about growing up with R&B music 00:01:23 - 00:02:03: Discusses involvement with cameo band 00:02:04 - 00:03:04: Case explains when he fell in love with R&B 00:03:05 - 00:03:45: Journey to a recording deal with Def Jam 00:03:46 - 00:04:10: "Touch Me, Tease Me" and its success 00:04:11 - 00:05:05: Competitive R&B scene in the 90s 00:05:06 - 00:05:54: Creative process and songwriting experiences 00:05:55 - 00:06:27: Case’s thoughts on leaving Def Jam 00:06:28 - 00:07:19: Case on what's kept his love for R&B alive 00:07:20 - 00:08:06: Music as an expression of personal stories 00:08:07 - 00:09:20: Reflecting on his relationship with Mary J. Blige 00:09:21 - 00:10:04: Idea of the "King of R&B" and legends 00:10:05 - 00:10:51: Usher’s platform for artists and Case’s involvement 00:10:52 - 00:11:12: Modern R&B and maintaining the classic sound 00:11:13 - 00:11:48: Beyoncé's influence and impact 00:11:49 - 00:12:15: Discussion on R&B awards and industry recognition 00:12:16 - 00:13:05: Future projects and collaborations 00:13:06 - 00:14:40: Closing thoughts on musical legacy and celebration of R&B artists Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    52 min
  • THEY. : Dante and Drew Talk Music Inspirations and New Album

    THEY. : Dante and Drew Talk Music Inspirations and New Album
    Feb 20 2025
    Join Ian Von as he welcomes Dante and Drew of the R&B duo They. for an engaging conversation about their latest musical project. Together, they explore the nuances of creating music that resonates with listeners, the importance of authentic artistry, the role of R&B in today's music scene, and the significance of reclaiming black art. This is one episode you don’t want to miss! 🎶✨ 🧧 Support the Show: https://www.patreon.com/canwetalkrnb 📱Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & iHeart Now!!!! ✅Don’t forget to stream & rate us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and iHeart - CLICK LINKS BELOW! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4zfIA072HwTapLg019UDcM iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-can-we-talk-rb-119355435/ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/can-we-talk-rnb-podcast/id1703170636 📲Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB Hosted & Created by: Ian Von | www.instagram.com/IanVonMusic Produced by: Launch Pod Studio | www.instagram.com/LaunchPodStudio Time Stamps: Introduction and Welcome 00:00:00 - 00:01:08 - Dante gives a quick introduction and Ian welcomes the audience. Discussion on R&B Consumption and Club Scene 00:01:09 - 00:02:30 - The conversation centers around how consumers digest music, particularly R&B, in various settings. Album Insights and Release Strategy 00:02:31 - 00:06:08 - The hosts and guests discuss the Love Jones album, its thematic focus, and its Valentine's Day release. Creative Process and Inspirations 00:06:09 - 00:12:12 - Insight into the creation process, inspirations from Chicago R&B, and the importance of storytelling in music. Visuals and Marketing for New Releases 00:12:13 - 00:36:02 - A deep dive into content creation strategies, including the importance of multiple visuals and adapting to modern consumption habits. R&B Influences Across Decades 00:36:03 - 00:30:00 - An exploration of influential R&B artists and sounds from the 80s to the 2000s. The Role of Authenticity in Music 00:30:01 - 00:31:17 - A discussion on authenticity in music and its impact on stardom and artistry. Album Storytelling and Themes 00:31:18 - 00:34:03 - Discussion on the storytelling approach in the Love Jones album. Future Plans and Projects 00:34:04 - 00:37:20 - Upcoming plans for tours, new projects, and maintaining the Love Jones narrative. Super Bowl and Upcoming Performances 00:37:21 - 00:37:34 - A brief mention of upcoming performances by artists at the Super Bowl. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 h et 4 min