Can We Talk RnB? Podcast

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 acces...

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 c...

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 a...

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....

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 stra...

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...

In this episode of Can We Talk R&B, we sit down with the legendary R&B group Jagged Edge for an in-depth conversation about their journey, the secret to their longevity, and why they never broke up. They discuss their hopes for 112’s reunion, selling 2 million singles for Promise, and Brandon’s near-death accident. The group also opens up about the passing of Irv Gotti, their new independent album...

Join Ian Von and Mac Aryes for an engaging exploration of musical authenticity, artistic growth, and the soul-stirring power of R&B in today’s music landscape. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to Mac’s music, this episode promises a rich and reflective conversation filled with vibrant insights and heartfelt stories. ✅ LISTEN, FOLLOW, AND RATE 🎙️ Hosted & Created by: Ian Von 🚀 Produced : Lau...

In this vibrant episode of "Can We Talk R&B," Ian Von, the R&B Ambassador, is joined by the talented Teedra Moses. From her early influences to her journey through the music industry, Teedra shares her unique perspective on songwriting, collaborations, and what it means to be a timeless artist. The episode is filled with anecdotes from her personal and professional life, highlighting her passion f...

This special We Sound Crazy x Can We Talk R&B crossover episode is the ultimate 2024 R&B year-end recap and mashup you’ve been waiting for! Join the We Sound Crazy crew and Can We Talk R&B host, Ian Von, for Part Two as we celebrate the highs, the vibes, and the breakthroughs in R&B this year. From the hottest tracks to the most iconic moments in the culture, this power-packed episode dives deep i...

In the latest episode of Can We Talk R&B?, host Ian Von sits down with the legendary Eric Roberson, an artist with over thirty years of experience in the R&B industry. Eric takes us through his journey—from his early years in South Jersey to his time in college, where his passion for music truly began to take shape. Eric opens up about his work with DJ Jazzy Jeff, his role as a writer with the Noo...

Elle Varner joins Can We Talk R&B to share her musical journey, starting with her parents' influence in R&B. Elle reflects on her musical education, including her time at NYU’s Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music, and how her 2012 debut propelled her into stardom. She opens up about the shifts in the music industry, her time away from the scene, and her powerful return as an independent artist...

Avery Wilson discusses the power of his elite voice and shares his journey in the music business being on The Voice. He opens up about his sexuality, his new role in The Wiz, his latest single, and the music influences that have shaped his career. ✅ LISTEN, FOLLOW, AND RATE 🎙️ Hosted & Created by: Ian Von 🚀 Produced & Shot by: Launch Pod Studio 🎥 Edited by: Lazy Pickle Studios 📲 Presented by:...

In this episode of the Can We Talk R&B Podcast, Ian Von welcomes vocal coach and musician Robert "RAab " Stevenson. They discuss Robert's journey from a family of singers to becoming a sought-after vocal coach for stars. Stevenson shares his early experiences in music, the transition from group performances to a solo career, and the impact of the New Jack Swing era. He reflects on the creation of...

In this episode, Miki Howard joins Ian Von to share her remarkable journey in music and the life story that inspired her biopic. Miki opens up about her Gospel upbringing and her experiences growing up alongside elite Gospel musicians. She candidly discusses the challenges she faced, including being taken advantage of by a much older producer during her teenage years, and the impact of being raise...

On this episode, Bongo ByTheWay joins us to share his legendary journey. Born in Nigeria, this multi-instrumentalist received his first placement on a Musiq Soulchild album at just 18, and he hasn’t looked back since. Bongo has collaborated with an impressive roster of artists, including Jazmine Sullivan, H.E.R., The Game, Ty Dolla $ign, Kanye "Ye" West, Chloe Bailey, Teyana Taylor, and many more....

TA Thomas joins the show to discuss his upbringing in the Mississippi Delta, his musical influences, and the impact Jackson State University has had on his career. He shares insights about joining the R&B boy band Next Town Down, the reasons behind their breakup, and his recent solo project, “Caught Between 2 Worlds.” He’ll also talk about his exciting new signing with Def Jam. ✅ LISTEN, FOLLOW,...

In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome R&B legend Tim Kelley! Tim shares insights into his incredible career, during which he has produced hit songs that have sold over 600 million records, earned four Grammy Awards, and garnered 12 nominations. He recounts fascinating stories behind his work as the legendary duo Tim and Bob, including tracks for Bobby Valentino and the infamous "Thong Song" b...

In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome 90s R&B legend Donell Jones! He shares his early beginnings and influences growing up in Chicago, and his journey through the golden age of R&B music on the LaFace label. Donell opens up about the challenges of being on a label with major talents like Usher, Pink, Toni Braxton, and OutKast, and the patience required as he waited for his moment to shine. H...

In this episode, the self-proclaimed "King of Christian R&B," Jor'Dan Armstrong, joins us to discuss his humble beginnings, R&B influences, and his mission to create soulful R&B songs with a Christian message. We'll also delve into his musical inspirations and his two Billboard hits and so much more. 0:00 - 3:15 Intro  3:15 - 6:38 Hearing Jodeci’s music  6:38 - 8:11 What made you want to do this p...

In this episode, Sammie joins the show to dive deep into his remarkable 25-year career in music. He shares his journey from being discovered at just 10 years old after winning Showtime at the Apollo to becoming a platinum-selling artist at 12. Sammie reflects on his experiences with artist development and his hit collaboration with Soulja Boy on "Kiss Me Through the Phone." He discusses the challe...

In this episode, VEDO opens up about reaching 1 billion streams with his hit song "You Got It," the journey of releasing 8 albums before his breakthrough, and the story behind the track. He also discusses his time on NBC's The Voice with Team Usher, performing for 15 million viewers, and his viral Tiny Desk performance where he sang background alongside Eric Bellinger for Usher. Additionally, VEDO...

In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome the legendary singer-songwriter Eric Benet to the show. Eric takes us on a journey through his early years in Milwaukee, his musical collaborations with family, and his successful solo career that began in the 1990s. Known for his unique style, including his signature barefoot performances, Eric discusses the deep, personal connection he brings to his mus...

In this episode of Can We Talk R&B, we are thrilled to welcome Phil “The Keyz” Cornish, a 2x Grammy Award-winning musician and producer. Phil takes us on a journey through his roots in Houston, TX, where his early years as a pianist set the stage for an impressive career. From his early days in Houston, Texas, to becoming a pivotal figure in the music industry, Phil shares his incredible journey....

In this episode of Can We Talk R&B, we sit down with singer-songwriter Zae France. Zae shares his journey from being born and raised in North Carolina to moving to Connecticut at age 12 and bouncing back and forth during high school. Despite singing in high school, he kept it under wraps until he released his first song in 2017. 0:00 - 3:49 Intro  3:49 - 4:40 Being Southern 4:40 - 5:09 Moving to C...