By: R. City

Hitmaker Theron “Uptown” Thomas is one half of the brother duo R. City, who is responsible for some of Pop music’s biggest records to date. Having worked with the likes of Rihanna, Lizzo, Jennifer Hudson, Adam Levine, The Pussy Cat Dolls and Akon to name a few, this living legend plans to impact the careers of many more hotshots in the new year.

I had the pleasure of catching up with this hotshot for a candid interview to discuss finding longevity, creating music with his brother and working with some of Pop music’s most notable acts. Check it out below.

Theron Thomas Interview 

Respect: How did you get your start in the music business?

Theron: I officially started in the business in 2007. My brother and I were in a big group in the Caribbean especially the United States Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands. We got famous over there and then moved to the states in 2000 to try to make it. It took us 7 years to finally get in. We got in as songwriters but we were trying to make it as artists. A song we wrote in the 7th grade called “The Rain” got us that foot in the door. We didn’t even know that people wrote songs for other people.

So my best friend who was and is still Akon’s DJ let me know that Akon was working on his next album. So he played a few songs for me, and me being young and arrogant I said I can write a better song than the ones he had played. He then asked me to play the song I had in mind. I played “The Rain” and he loved it. My friend called me and told me Akon wanted the song but I was like “why would he sing a song we wrote?”

He then said people write songs for people over here in the states and Akon bought our song for $5000. That was the most money we had ever received at that time. I had a daughter catching the bus so for me I could not believe people paid that much money for a song. After working with Akon people started hitting us up asking us if we wrote songs and it just went on from there.

Respect: What is it like creating music with your brother and how R. City came about?

Theron: Making music with my brother is fun. We both respect each other’s talent and allow each other to lead in the areas that we are experts at. The good part is that sometimes we clash and the music is better because of that. Sometimes I want to do this and he wants to do something else and that friction creates this unique sound.

How we got our name R. City is because we are from St. Thomas, which is known as “Rock City”. We couldn’t legally release music under the moniker “Rock City” so we dropped the Rock and called ourselves R. City, which stands for Rock City.

Respect: When did you catch your big break? 

Theron: I would say linking with Akon is when I caught my big break for sure because it opened up a door that never closed. It was a small opening and once it opened we kicked the door down and bum-rushed our way in. The door never closed on us after that point.

Respect: Can you describe the relationship between R. City & Adam Levine of Maroon 5?

Theron: It is good! Adam Levine embraced us and Maroon 5 took us on tour with them. They are the nicest guys. I feel like I am in their debt for life if you ask me. He did not have to do a song with us, he did not have to take us on tour, nor did the band have to agree with him to allow us to come along. Our relationship is good and will remain that way.

Respect: How did working with the Pussy Cat Dolls on their “I Want To Grow Up” release come about and how did it impact you career?

Theron: That was our first hit record. We did it with Rodney Jerkins and it was originally for Britney Spears but it did not fit the space she was in musically at that time. We were signed to Interscope and my A&R at the time Erica Grayson knew we wrote songs so we sent it to her and she loved it. She sent it to Jimmy Lovine and the rest is history. We had a hit “When I Grow Up” and that was the first time people gave us our respect for charting. That led to us getting more big opportunities, so that was a big deal for us. 

Respect: As you have worked with some of pop music’s biggest stars, who are some artist’s career you have heavily influenced?

Theron: I would say people who we have worked with since the beginning of their careers such as Jennifer Hudson who’s This Isn’t Love Album we worked on. It was a Grammy-winning album. Ne-Yo did “Spotlight” and we did “This Isn’t Love “ the single. Lizzo I would have to say as well. I worked on her current album that is out. She was nominated for 8 Grammy Awards.

Out of the 8, she walked away with 3 awards. She is amazing and a really good person. I knew she was special and a star from the day I met her. At the time I was working with Rihanna on her new album, flying back and forth to Paris and London for 2 and a half years not working on anything else. But at the same time, I knew I wanted to work with her because she was so dope and did.

Respect: How has being from the Virgin Islands influenced your music career and taste in music?

Theron: We do not have segregated radio in the islands. Like in America you all have urban radio, pop radio, rhythmic radio meaning that you all have separate genres. In the Virgin Islands, we don’t. If there is a Bob Marley, Aerosmith or Little Keed song they all play on the same radio station. Growing up as kids we never really saw genres because the lines were blurry. It influenced us in a way where we would put hip hop, r&b, soul, pop and rock all in one like gumbo.

Obviously, people thought it was weird at first but then they realized that is what makes R. City unique. One time we were writing a song for Gwen Stefani and she told me that she loved the R&B melody. I didn’t even know that it was an R&B melody. I just liked it because it sounded cool.

Respect: How important is it as an artist and songwriter to have creative freedom? 

Theron: It is very important because with your art you want to make sure people see your vision. I write songs for other artists that I won’t sing so my vision is important. I might write the most gangster hood song for DJ Khaled’s album and then for my album take a completely different direction because that is simply just not who I am. Feel like in the music I want to make sure people are getting to know me as much as I can as well as my brother. We just want people to see what we stand for and what we are into and rock with it.

Respect: What Advice would you give any creative looking to break into the industry as a songwriter?

Theron: Practice makes perfect. Keep on writing and learn how to accept advice. But do not let the advice control you because everybody’s story is different. Like no one no matter what will have my story I don’t care how they try. Nobody is going to move from the Islands with $35 in their pocket. No matter what advice I give you, you have to walk your path. As cliché as it sounds, the best advice anyone can tell you is to never give up. The only people that actually who lose are the people that quit and that is for real.

Respect: What are you currently working on? 

Theron: A kid named 11:11, my good friend Dr. Luke, Mario, Usher, Lordes, A1 LaFlare (singer/songwriter) and I’m currently in the studio with Saweetie. So much love for her and her drive and work ethic. I have a different level of respect for her being in the studio with her seeing her create.

I am also working with Doja Cat on her new album. I did her records “Rules” and “Like It” Feat. Gucci Mane. I am in a space where I want to work with new people and be responsible for ushering in a new wave of talent. Kim Petras is one of the best pop voices in the world. I am super excited about her. That is where I am mentally. It is all about working with new artists.

My son Sumo and I did a kid’s album that we will release this year. He is 7 years old and I am truly excited about that. It’s called Sumo World. I am just in a great space. When I first started music I did it because I had a daughter, I was broke and wanted to take care of her my way. Now money is not an issue, and I’m making music that I love and that I want to hear.

I am ecstatic to also announce that new R. City music is coming soon!! 2020 will be a crazy year!!! 

 Be sure to follow Theron on IG @therontheron_ as he continues his reign over the music business. .

The post Theron “Uptown” Thomas: Pop Hitmaker You Need To Know appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

After LA weekly asked its readers last week if he holds the crown as the “reigning king of R&B,” and a recent social media feud on the topic (fueled by an IG video featuring Bellinger and Usher in the studio), Eric Bellinger didn’t hesitate to bring his A-game to the packed Avalon theater. The “legend” label was well-earned by both headliners as Ro James rocked the house with a lit live band and Bellinger gave the crowd hit after hit while they shouted out requests for their favorites. LT Hutton, producer of the “All Eyez on Me” Tupac biopic (and former head of A&R for Interscope Records), was honored as a legend as well, as he accepted an award for his excellence in the film and music industry. Everyone who attended is no doubt counting the days until the next installment of the show that just set a new standard for R&B concerts in Hollywood. It was indeed a legendary night!

The post Young Legend Nights with Eric Bellinger and Ro James Draws a Star-Studded Crowd to Hollywood appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

Kanye West & KiD CuDi – Kids See Ghosts

Image credit: G.O.O.D. Music/Def Jam

Week three of the G.O.O.D. takeover has arrived. Kanye West is back — this time, with KiD CuDi — for the join project Kids See Ghosts, which sees additional assistance from Pusha T, Ty Dolla $ign, Yasiin Bey and (presumably) more. As with ye, this one was also preceded by a live stream via WAV.

Very excited to check this one out.

Angel – Woman

Image credit: Island/Universal

London singer Angel is back with a brand new album titled Woman, his official follow-up to 2013’s About Time (not counting impressive EP’s in-between — please check this man’s catalog if you’re not familiar). This go ’round, fans get 14 new tracks with additional appearances from Giggs, Eric Bellinger and WSTRN‘s Haile.

Superfly (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)

Image credit: Epic/Sony

Director X‘s new remake of Superfly has arrived, and so has the Future-fronted accompanying soundtrack. In addition to Curtis Mayfield’s successor, the 13-track compilation also sees appearances from Khalid, H.E.R., Young Thug, 21 Savage, Miguel, PARTYNEXTDOOR and more. Hopefully, both music and film will be equally on-point.

Jorja Smith – Lost & Found

Image credit: FAMM

Thanks to Drake and others, much of the world has become exposed to the breathtaking Jorja Smith, who has already been making huge waves in the UK and Europe. Now, following a slew of dope Pop/R&B singles comes her debut album Lost & Found, which surprisingly doesn’t feature the Stormzy-assisted “Let Me Down.” Regardless, this one should solidify her career as an amazing talent that can hold her own without big names to back her. Check it out — along with a recent Live Lounge performance — below…in related news, you can also check out her recent feature with Playboy (!).

Ne-Yo – GOOD MAN

Image credit: Motown

It’s very dope to see how R&B star Ne-Yo has remained fresh and relevant for more than a decade. This weekend, he delivers his seventh official offering GOOD MAN, his latest since 2015’s Non-Fiction. The project sees 20 tracks and additional appearances from Stefflon Don, Bebe Rexha, PARTYNEXTDOOR, Eric Bellinger and more.

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The post NEW ALBUM FRIDAY: Kids See Ghosts, Jorja Smith, ‘Superfly’ & More appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

Check out the Caribbean-style offering below (directed by James Larese), along with — if you missed it — Good Man‘s title track, which samples D’Angelo‘s classic “How Does It Feel.”

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Neyo. Photo Credit: Williamsburg Vacations

Grammy Award winning singer Ne-Yo is THAT dude. He’s got the vocals and he’s got the dance moves.

Apparently the fella who brought you hits like: So Sick, Miss Independent, Because of You and Sexy Love also has really good stories!

He told me about his most memorable Christmas gift, it was different. Press Play below for more! 

Ne-Yo checks in with Scoop B

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The post Scoop B: Ne-Yo recounts busting his chin as a child while playing with a toy car his mom gifted him on Christmas appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

There aren’t enough words to describe the artist known as Prince. The man has provided the world with countless songs that transcend generations.  With that comes his influence.  There is no doubt that he has influenced generations of musicians with his unique one of a kind sound.  If it were possible any and every artist would have that man make a contribution to their music one way or another.  However, that’s not how Prince rolls.  He’s an artist who he his own rules.  He rarely ever works with other artist, and that’s the reason why we have artist who try to emulate his sound.  Although we’re sure more will come; here are a few songs that you can’t help but to think of Prince when you hear them.

Beyonce– “1+1“: Originally recorded and written by singer/songwriter The Dream.  The song that was formally titled “Nothing But Love” found itself a new owner and home as the opening track on Beyonce’s fourth studio album 4.  It was suppose to be on The Dream’s 2009 album Love vs. Money, but didn’t make the final cut.  The slow seductive song sounds as though Prince had his hands on it, but it was all due to The Dream and his partner Tricky Stewart.  Beyonce later changed the songs title to “1+1.”

Brian McKnight– “Love of My Life”:  As Brian introduced himself to the new millennium; he did it with a new sound that have everyone buzzing.  Singing the song in his falsetto, it sounded like something straight out of Prince’s songbook.  However, that wasn’t the case. “Love of My Life” was written and produced by Brian only, and became a celebrated love song in 2001.

Miguel– “FLESH”: If there is any other artist who has mirrored their career after Prince’s it has to be Miguel. Exuding everything that Prince is, he definitely channeled “the purple one” on his album Wildheart. “FLESH” contains all the elements that make a great Prince song.  Guitars strumming, sexual lyrics, sung in a perfect falsetto while oozing through your speakers.  The track is perfect for adult variety that takes place in the bedroom.

The Dream– “Fast Car”: It’s no secret that The Dream’s muse is Prince.  His personal music style is extremely similar to Prince, but he mimic’s it so well you tend to forget. On his debut album Love/Hate his track “Fast Car” is basically his version of Prince’s “Little Red Corvette.” The same car analogy, but instead, he’s not looking for a good girl.  He wants his girl candy coated red and fast. The album’s trailing song is “Nikki,” in which Prince also has a song of the same title, and tells a tale of a young lady as well.

D’Angelo– “Untitled (How Does It Feel)”: There’s no doubt that D’Angelo is a musician in his own right, with an original sound. However, Prince heavily influences his leading single for his sophomore album. The song’s groove, accompanied by overly sexual lyrics and his falsetto makes it the proper blend and music tribute to Prince. Not to mention that it’s album version is all of seven minutes long, Prince style.  The song also has producing credit from Raphael Saadiq.

Ne-Yo– “Sex with My Ex”: The singer and songwriter has cited Prince as an influence and one person he wishes to work with. Although he hasn’t, he did tackle his music style for a track on his sophomore album Because of You. “Sex with My Ex” sounds like something from the Purple Rain era that Prince threw away. Bragging about his bedroom performance to an ex who had a relapse and found herself back in bed with him.  He reminds her that although she has moved on, he’s her best lover.

Jazmine Sullivan– “Don’t Make Me Wait”: Now the song may contain a sample from Aretha Franklin’s song “Jump to It,” but there’s no denying that this was indeed her musical tribute to Prince. On the up-tempo bouncy track she sings about not wanting to waste anytime on dates and conversation as men do with other girls.  She wants to get straight to the point.  As the chorus goes “Don’t make me wait to long, just play my favorite song, I’ll get my Vanity 6 on.” Vanity 6 being the group Prince founded, who’s hit song was titled “Nasty Girl.”

Beyonce– “Blow”: With production from Pharrell Williams and Justin Timberlake writing the lyrics, Beyonce was guaranteed to get a song describing the tactics of oral sex.  The mid-tempo track off her fifth album Beyonce is where Prince meets Janet Jackson, but Vanity 6 would have end up getting the song.  And its video helped seal the Prince deal. 80’s hair, neon colors, latex dresses, electric guitars, and a smoke machine.

Honorable Mention:

Alicia Keys– “Like You’ll Never See Me Again”: Alicia might be one artist that Prince will give his approval stamp on.  She has paid homage to him a time or another, and covered his “How Come You Don’t Call Me Anymore” on her debut album.  So when she returned with her third album As I Am, Keys’ second single “Like You’ll Never See Me Again” heavily resembled Prince’s “Purple Rain.” Although the song was written and produced by both Keys and partner Kerry Brothers, it was known as a “distant cousin” to “Purple Rain.”

Beyonce– “Rocket”: Many argued that the song was very similar to D’Angelo’s “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” and it was according to Beyonce who later revealed so.  Singer Miguel conceived the songs concept, and also helped pen it with Justin Timberlake. Timbaland lent his production talents to the project and “Rocket” was born.

BONUS: The Dream- Yamaha

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The post 8 Songs Influenced by Prince’s Sound appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

November 20th is the day Jadakiss will finally release his fourth album, Top 5 Dead or Alive.

The first song he debuted off the album was”You Can See” featuring Future, he then proceeded to release “Ain’t Nothing New” featuring Nipsey Hussle and Ne-Yo. The track is a smooth ode to the repetitive nature of street life. It may be foreign to others, but to those who are really in the field, it’s really nothing new. The drums and bass line on this track are mean. Mr. Raspy is set to keep the streets happy until the release they’ve been patiently waiting for. Check the tune out below.

The post New Music: Jadakiss- “Ain’t Nothing New” ft. Ne-Yo & Nipsey Hussle appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.