Jody Watley biography
Date of birth : 1959-01-30
Date of death : -
Birthplace : Chicago, Illinois,U.S.
Nationality : American
Category : Arts and Entertainment
Last modified : 2024-01-30
Credited as : Singer-songwriter, Record producer, founder of Avitone Records
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Jody Vanessa Watley: A Journey Through Music and Evolution
Jody Vanessa Watley, an American singer, songwriter, record producer, and founder of Avitone Records, has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Her versatile musical style spans Pop, R&B, Jazz, Dance, and Electronic Soul, earning her acclaim and numerous accolades. In 1987, she clinched the Grammy Award for "Best New Artist," solidifying her status as a groundbreaking force.
Early Life and Influences
Born in Chicago around 1960, Jody's upbringing was steeped in show business. Her father, an Episcopalian radio evangelist and disk jockey, and her mother, a piano player and singer, connected her with legends like Joe Tex, Sam Cooke, and her godfather, Jackie Wilson. Early exposure on the Soul Train television show at the age of 14 paved the way for her journey into the world of entertainment.
Shalamar Years and Transition to Solo Career
Teaming up with Jeffrey Daniel on Soul Train, Watley co-choreographed daring dance routines, catching the eye of Soul Train's creator, Don Cornelius. This marked the beginning of Shalamar, where Watley spent seven years before pursuing her solo career. Concerned about being typecast, she left the group in 1984 to explore her artistic talents.
Solo Success and Grammy Glory
Signing with MCA, Watley's debut solo album, "Jody Watley," secured her the Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 1987. Hit singles like "Looking for a New Love" propelled her into the limelight. Subsequent albums, including "Larger than Life" and "You Wanna Dance with Me?," showcased her prowess as a serious singer, dismantling stereotypes.
Entrepreneurship and Activism
Post-MCA, Watley founded Avitone Records, releasing her album "Affection" in 1995. Her activism came to the forefront when she sang at the White House in 1992, using the platform to speak against racial bigotry. The transition to Atlantic Records in 1998 marked another milestone, with six top-ten singles and two platinum albums under her belt.
Personal Life and Evolution
Jody Watley's personal life intertwines with her professional journey. Her marriage to bass player Andre Cymone remained a secret for three years. The couple has two children, Lauren and Arie. Watley's commitment to motherhood did not hinder her career, as she delved into fitness videos, modeling, and even a Playboy magazine spread.
The Evolution Continues
Watley finished her 10th solo album, "Chameleon," in 2020, It definitely showcased her as a 21st-century recording artist, dedicated to carving her own creative path. In December 2016, Billboard ranked her as the 21st-most-successful dance artist of all time, and in 2017 Black Music Honors TV special recognized Watley as Crossover Music Icon Honoree for her groundbreaking achievements and influence.
Legacy and Recognition:
In December 2016, Billboard ranked Jody Watley as the 21st-most-successful dance artist of all time. In 2017, the Black Music Honors TV special recognized her as the Crossover Music Icon Honoree for groundbreaking achievements and influence. August 2018 saw Billboard ranking her as one of the top female artists of all time at number 53.
March 2021 marked a significant milestone as Jody Watley was named the First Ambassador of the National Museum of African American Music. In 2022, she received an honorary doctorate in business and the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from Joe Biden at Jody Watley Day at Georgia State Capitol. Notably, she was inducted into the Women's Songwriters Hall Of Fame.
In 2023, Sirius XM Satellite Radio launched 'The Jody Watley Show,' a monthly Life, Music, and Culture show featuring celebrity guests and classic R&B hits, further solidifying her impact on contemporary entertainment. The legacy of Jody Watley continues to resonate, transcending time and inspiring the next generation of artists.
Selected discography of Jody Watley:
- Jody Watley , MCA, 1987
- Larger Than Life , MCA 1989
- You Wanna Dance with Me? 1989
- Affairs of the Heart , MCA, 1991
- Intimacy , MCA, 1993
- Remixes of Love (Japanese release), 1994
- Affection , Avitone/Bellmark, 1995
- Greatest Hits , 1996
- Flower , Atlantic, 1998
