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:

📲Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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:

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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:

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In this engaging episode of "Can We Talk R&B," host Ian Von sits down with rising star Capella Grey to explore the artist's unique fusion of R&B with hip-hop influences. They delve into Grey's musical journey, his creative process, and the definition of modern R&B, highlighting his hits like "Gyalis" and "I'm Weak." The conversation offers insight into Grey's perspective on authenticity, his musical influences, and his vision for the future of R&B.

🧧 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 & Welcome

Ian Von kicks off the podcast with an energetic introduction to the new season.

00:01:15 - Capella Grey's R&B Inspiration

Discusses what made Capella fall in love with R&B and his unique influences.

00:04:20 - Musical Influences & Background

Capella talks about the artists and music groups that influenced his sound.

00:08:00 - Production & Songwriting

Insights into how Capella creates music and his approach to production.

00:09:49 - Independent to Distribution

Transition from being an independent artist to signing distribution deals.

00:15:10 - The Evolution of R&B

A deep dive into how Capella views modern R&B and his place within it.

00:17:29 - Vibe Responsibly Movement

Capella Grey explains the concept of vibing responsibly and its importance.

00:20:25 - ATF Label & Future Plans

Exploration of Capella's entrepreneurial ventures and upcoming projects.

00:22:57 - Deep Dive into "I'm Weak"

The story behind Capella Grey's hit song "I'm Weak."

00:25:36 - Top 5 R&B Songs

Capella Grey shares his all-time favorite R&B tracks.

00:28:00 - Hip Hop Influences

Discussion of Capella's favorite hip hop artists and their impact on his music.

00:33:00 - Upcoming Tours and Releases

Information about Capella's upcoming tour and new music releases.

00:34:54 - Closing Remarks

End of the episode with thank yous and a call to action for listeners.

Links:

📱www.instagram.com/CanWeTalkRnB

📱www.twitter.com/CanWeTalkRnB

📱https://www.tiktok.com/@canwetalkrnb

🎥 www.youtube.com/canwetalkrnb

#canwetalkrnbpodcast #rnb #podcast #rnbmusic #rnbvibes

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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, and the challenges of releasing music without comparing it to past successes. Plus, they share their thoughts on Jermaine Dupri vs. Diddy’s legacy, their next tour, and the artists who still inspire them today—Chris Brown, Usher, H.E.R., SZA, and Jazmine Sullivan.

This is one episode you don’t want to miss! 🎶✨

✅ LISTEN, FOLLOW, AND RATE

🎙️ Hosted & Created by: Ian Von

🚀 Produced : Launch Pod Studio

🎬 Shot by: Chris Foster Media

🎥 Edited by: Lazy Pickle Studios

📲 Presented by: Revolt Podcast Network

Chapters:

00:00:00 - Introduction & Achievements

00:02:53 - Jagged Edge's Journey into R&B

00:03:37 - Gospel Influence

00:05:10 - How Jagged Edge and 112 share a common upbringing in music.

00:06:35 - Formation of the Group

00:07:01 - "Gotta Be" Origin

00:08:40 - Collaboration with Brian Michael Cox

00:10:24 - Album Creation Process

00:11:02 - Views on R&B Evolution

00:14:10 - Importance of Album Tracks

00:15:06 - Concert Experiences

00:18:04 - Career Evolution

00:19:56 - Impact of Songs Like "Promise"

00:22:00 - "Let's Get Married" Legacy

00:24:52 - Relationship with Contemporary Artists

00:26:40 - Group's Longevity and Harmony

00:28:46 - Studio and Performance Memories

00:30:17 - Staying Together as a Group

00:31:45 - A Message to 112 and Maintaining Friendships

00:34:49 - Jermaine Dupri’s Influence

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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 : Launch Pod Studio

🎬 Shot by: Chris Foster Media

🎥 Edited by: Lazy Pickle Studios

📲 Presented by: Revolt Podcast Network

Chapters:

00:00 - 00:30: Introduction of Mac Ayres.

00:30 - 05:30: Discussing influences, style evolution, and early musical experiences.

05:30 - 10:00: Chat about favorite artists including Stevie Wonder and D'Angelo.

10:00 - 17:00: Mac explains his latest project, Cloudy, and what it means for his career.

17:00 - 21:00: Mac talks about new artists he’s listening to and how they influence him.

21:00 - 27:00: An amusing recount of performing the anthem at a Knicks game and the nerves involved.

27:00 - 31:00: Details about upcoming tours in Europe and other locations.

31:00 - 35:00: Sharing funny and memorable concert experiences.

35:00 - 45:00: Discussion on festival lineups and dream performances.

45:00 - 47:30: Mac shares thoughts on his journey and aspirations as a musician.

47:30 - 50:00: Wrap up of the conversation and final messages to listeners.

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