In this episode, Ian Von sits down with UK-born, Nigerian-rooted singer and songwriter Shae Universe—a rising force who’s fusing R&B, neo-soul, and drill into a fresh, soulful sound.

Shae opens up about growing up in church with a gospel-singer mother, how that foundation organically led her into R&B and neo-soul, and how she’s become a culture shifter through her R&Drill fusion. She talks candidly about being self-managed, navigating an industry that often feels backwards, and the power of protecting her energy and heart posture in order to stay a true vessel on and off stage.

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Intro
01:21 Gospel Roots
03:18 Flow State
05:33 Influences
08:23 Acting to Music
09:14 Industry Path
10:13 UK vs US
10:59 Tour Life
12:27 John B Lessons
14:06 Self-Managed
15:24 True Independence
16:41 “Journey” Story
18:00 S’ABLE Album
19:41 R&Drill
21:22 Spotify Co-Sign
22:23 No Ego
23:05 Creative Influence
24:01 Tiny Desk DM
25:02 Just Ask
25:31 Start Anyway
26:11 Podcast Parallel
27:02 Goals & Legacy
27:40 Why “Universe”
28:21 Being a Light
29:42 Frank & Tems
30:31 Live & What’s Next
31:40 Outro

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Ian Von sits down with Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, and Love King Raheem DeVaughn for a raw convo on artistry, independence, and love as a lifestyle. Raheem breaks down why he’s often seen as an “underground king,” his path from background singer for Ginuwine to respected solo artist, and how he’s stayed consistent and independent for 20+ years. He talks creative process (rarely writing lyrics down), balancing sensuality with socially conscious “edutainment,” his community work, and why his best song is still ahead of him. They also touch on the state of R&B, the streaming era’s flood of music, live performance strategy, generational influences, and dream collabs.

If you love real R&B and game from an OG still ascending, this episode delivers.

🧧 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 Welcome & Show Intro

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In this powerful and heart-centered episode, Ian Von sits down with R&B legend Christopher Williams for a deep, honest conversation that spans New Jack Swing nostalgia, near-death experiences, spiritual alignment, and a full-circle musical comeback.Christopher opens up about releasing new music in today’s R&B landscape, surviving kidney failure and relearning how to walk and talk, and the divine alignment that led to his new single “Good Enough.” He reflects on the impact of his classic hit “I’m Dreamin’ and the cultural legacy of New Jack City, while sharing invaluable lessons from the golden era of ’90s R&B—and what today’s artists can learn from it.This episode is part testimony, part masterclass, and part celebration of a career that’s still evolving 36 years later.

📲Stay connected with Us! #CanWeTalkRnB #CWTRB

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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:

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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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