Shawn Stockman's On That Note

By Shawn StockmanMusic Music Commentary Music History

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on Music History
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Typical duration
91 min
per episode

Based on Podcast App listening data

Shawn Stockman's On That Note episodes

October 14 Jay Pharoah
Jay Pharoah Joins Shawn Stockman on On That Note! 🎤🔥
Comedian, actor, rapper, and master impressionist Jay Pharoah sits down with Shawn Stockman of Boyz II Men for an unforgettable episode of On That Note, diving into his journey from a kid in Chesapeake, Virginia, to becoming one of the most recognizable impressionists in entertainment.
Best known for his six-season run on Saturday Night Live (SNL), Jay opens up about his journey to landing the career-changing opportunity, working toward his dream without a clear blueprint, and the determination it took to break into the industry. From his early days performing stand-up comedy to building a career across television, film, and music, Jay reveals the story behind the talent audiences know and love.
But there’s much more to Jay Pharoah than his celebrity impressions!
🎭 IN THIS EPISODE:
* Jay Pharoah’s Saturday Night Live Journey: How he landed his SNL audition at just 22 years old and got the call from legendary producer Lorne Michaels.
* Celebrity Impressions & Comedy: Jay breaks down his approach to mastering voices, expressions, cadence, and mannerisms while delivering hilarious impressions of Denzel Washington, Barack Obama, Jay-Z, Eddie Murphy, Kevin Hart, Chris Rock, Steve Harvey, and more.
* From Stand-Up Comedy to Hollywood: The experiences, sacrifices, and persistence that helped Jay turn his talent into a lasting entertainment career.
* The Music Behind the Comedian: Jay discusses his lifelong passion for hip-hop, his songwriting process, and his latest music project, The Odyssey.
* Jay Pharoah the Rapper: Shawn Stockman shares his reaction to Jay’s music and the versatility behind his sound, storytelling, flows, and different musical styles.
* The Power of Music & Personal Growth: Jay opens up about how writing music helped him navigate difficult moments in his life and stay connected to his creative purpose.
* Hollywood, Hip-Hop & Entertainment: The conversation touches on Eddie Murphy, Will Smith, Donald Glover, the evolution of hip-hop, and the connection between music and comedy.
And of course, Shawn couldn’t let Jay leave without putting those legendary impressions to the test! The episode features a hilarious impression speed round, spontaneous character work, and an unexpected musical moment as Shawn Stockman and Jay Pharoah connect through music.
From comedy and celebrity impressions to hip-hop, personal struggles, ambition, and artistic evolution, this episode goes beyond the laughs to reveal the man behind the many voices.
Watch until the end for Jay’s rapid-fire celebrity impressions and a special musical moment with Shawn Stockman that brings On That Note full circle.
👇 JOIN THE CONVERSATION
Which Jay Pharoah impression is your favorite? And did you know he could rap like this? Let us know in the comments!
👍 Like this video, subscribe to the On That Note YouTube channel, and turn on notifications for more conversations with the artists, entertainers, and cultural voices shaping music and entertainment.

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1 hr 46 min
October 07 Tommy Davidson
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Tommy Davidson joins Shawn Stockman for a powerful and hilarious conversation on a new episode of On That Note.
A legendary comedian, actor, impressionist, voice artist and original cast member of In Living Color, Tommy Davidson takes us behind the scenes of one of the most influential comedy shows in television history. Tommy reflects on working alongside Keenen Ivory Wayans, Jim Carrey, Damon Wayans, Jamie Foxx, David Alan Grier and the Wayans family, and explains what made In Living Color such a groundbreaking force in comedy and Black entertainment.
Tommy and Shawn also revisit the 1990s era of R&B and entertainment, discussing the incredible cultural moment that included Boyz II Men, Jodeci, Riff, Silk, Shai, SWV, TLC, Brownstone, Hi-Five and other legendary groups. The conversation explores the connection between music and comedy during that era and the impact those artists had on an entire generation.
The conversation takes a deeper turn as Tommy opens up about his extraordinary childhood and the circumstances surrounding his adoption. He shares the story of being abandoned as a baby in Mississippi, being rescued and adopted, growing up in Colorado and Wyoming, and eventually discovering his identity, his connection to Black culture and his passion for music and performance.
The two longtime friends revisit Tommy’s iconic Varnell Hill character from Martin and the incredible full-circle moment of bringing that character back more than 30 years later. Tommy discusses The Varnell Hill Show, his work as an executive producer alongside Martin Lawrence, and what it means to reinvent a character that audiences never forgot.
Tommy also discusses his film and television career, including Strictly Business, Booty Call, Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls, Bamboozled and his voice role as Oscar Proud on Disney’s The Proud Family.
From In Living Color and Martin to his new chapter with Varnell Hill, this is a conversation about comedy, music, Hollywood, survival, longevity, friendship, reinvention and the power of staying true to your gift.

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1 hr 58 min
September 30 Tisha Campbell
Tisha Campbell joins Shawn Stockman for a powerful and deeply personal episode of On That Note, reflecting on her legendary career in television, film, music, comedy, motherhood, and the journey of finally unmasking who she really is.
From her unforgettable roles as Gina Waters on Martin, Sydney in House Party, Yvonne in Boomerang, and Jay Kyle on My Wife and Kids, Tisha looks back at the moments that helped define her career and the cultural impact of Martin. She shares behind-the-scenes stories about working with Martin Lawrence, Tichina Arnold, Carl Anthony Payne II, Tommy Ford, Damon Wayans, Eddie Murphy, Robin Givens, Regina Hall, and the cast of Boomerang and House Party.
Tisha also opens up about her journey as a singer and R&B artist, including her time with Capitol Records, her music career during the height of Martin, and her song “Push.” She explains why she struggled to fully embrace her music career at the time and how acting ultimately became the path she believed could help her family.
The conversation takes an even more personal turn as Tisha discusses her childhood growing up in Newark, New Jersey, her family’s gospel music background, her mother and aunts singing alongside Mahalia Jackson, and how performing became part of her life at an early age. She shares the incredible story of winning a car in a childhood talent competition and booking her first acting role in The Magnificent Major.
Tisha also speaks candidly about autism, ADHD, masking, motherhood, therapy, and her son Zen, explaining how her own recent diagnosis helped her better understand herself and her experiences throughout her life. She discusses her book The A Word: A Mother and Son’s Journey Through Autism and Love, the importance of autism awareness, and how sharing her family’s journey online helped create a community around her son.
She also reveals the next chapter of her career as a writer, producer, and storyteller, including her production company You Go Girl Productions, her work with writing partner Danny Wright, her Lifetime project One Last Shot, and her desire to create stories that explore grief, family, healing, and the experiences of Black women.
Shawn and Tisha also revisit some of the most memorable moments from Martin, including the show’s iconic catchphrases, characters, comedy, and cultural impact that continues to reach new generations.
And in a revealing rapid-fire finale, Tisha talks about Gina vs. Jay, Sydney vs. Yvonne, acting vs. singing, comedy vs. drama, Martin Lawrence vs. Damon Wayans, Anita Baker, Meryl Streep, Amy Schumer, and the role she wishes more people knew about: Uncoupled.

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1 hr 26 min
September 23 October London
October London joins Shawn Stockman for an in-depth conversation on On That Note, discussing his journey from South Bend, Indiana to becoming one of the standout voices in modern R&B and a flagship artist for Death Row Records.
October London opens up about the unexpected path that led him to Snoop Dogg, including the moment legendary producer Jazzy Fay discovered his music while October was preparing to become a truck driver. He shares the story of getting the call from Snoop, moving to Los Angeles, and learning the business of music by sitting in on major industry meetings.
The conversation also explores October London’s musical influences, including Boyz II Men, Jagged Edge, 112, New Edition, Trey Songz, Teddy Pendergrass, Al Green, and Marvin Gaye, and how those artists helped shape his approach to timeless R&B.
Shawn and October also discuss the creative philosophy behind the October London name, his different musical alter egos, his relationship with Snoop Dogg, and the freedom to explore multiple genres while maintaining a distinct R&B identity.
October reflects on the making of his music, including “Back to Your Place,” “Mulholland Drive,” and “Touch on Me,” the unexpected rise of “Touch on Me” through social media and line dancing, and his latest album Love Me for Me. He also talks about his passion for classic soul, the influence of Marvin Gaye, and why timeless music still matters in modern R&B.
Beyond music, October discusses his entrepreneurial ventures, including his Saint London bespoke suit line and his vision for building a brand beyond music.
From South Bend to Los Angeles, from nearly becoming a truck driver to working alongside Snoop Dogg and Death Row Records, this episode gives an inside look at October London’s journey, influences, creativity, business mindset, and commitment to keeping classic R&B alive.
🎙️ Hosted by Shawn Stockman of Boyz II Men

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1 hr 41 min
September 16 Boyz II Men
Boyz II Men’s Shawn Stockman sits down with his brothers Nathan Morris and Wanya Morris for one of the most personal conversations yet on On That Note.
Filmed in Las Vegas during Boyz II Men’s residency at The Cosmopolitan, this conversation goes far beyond the music. Shawn, Nathan, and Wanya reflect on more than three decades of Boyz II Men, their brotherhood, the evolution of R&B, the music industry, and what it has taken to keep one of the most successful groups in music history together.
The three also open up about the long-awaited New Edition Way Tour featuring New Edition, Boyz II Men, and Toni Braxton, why the collaboration took so long to happen, the chemistry between the groups, and whether fans could see something similar happen again.
Shawn, Nathan, and Wanya also discuss whether Boyz II Men could headline another arena tour or even reach stadium status, the group’s massive international following, and why countries like Australia and South Africa have embraced Boyz II Men differently than the United States.
One of the most revealing moments comes when the brothers revisit the difficult period when Boyz II Men went from being at the height of their popularity to feeling shunned by the music industry. They talk about their experience with MTV’s Total Request Live (TRL), the changing music landscape, and what it felt like to go from being welcomed everywhere to struggling to even get a phone call.
The conversation gets even deeper as the group reflects on Khalil, success, ego, personal growth, and whether Boyz II Men themselves played a role in the industry turning against them. They discuss what they learned from that chapter of their careers and how those experiences shaped the men they are today.
Shawn, Nathan, and Wanya also debate the state of R&B music, the legacy of ’70s, ’80s and ’90s R&B, artists such as Jodeci, Silk, Color Me Badd, High Five, SWV, TLC, and Jagged Edge, and how the rise of hip-hop changed the sound and business of R&B.
And throughout it all, the brothers discuss the most important ingredient behind Boyz II Men’s longevity: the bond between the three of them, their love of music, and their ability to keep moving forward together.
🎙️ On That Note is hosted by Shawn Stockman of Boyz II Men, bringing artists and music conversations together from a perspective only someone who has lived through the industry can provide.
Subscribe to On That Note for more conversations about music, artists, careers, culture, and the stories behind the songs.

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1 hr 49 min
September 15 Jo Koy
Comedian Jo Koy joins Shawn Stockman on On That Note for an in-depth conversation about comedy, culture, family, representation, and the journey that took him from selling $5 DVDs to performing in arenas and stadiums.
Jo opens up about his brand-new Netflix special, Blue in the Face, including the deeply personal story behind the title and how the special pays tribute to his late stepfather, Sergeant Fred Harrison, whose influence helped shape Jo and his family. He also reflects on growing up with limited resources and how those experiences became part of the stories that connect him with audiences around the world.
The conversation also dives into Jo’s mission to create greater Filipino representation in entertainment, from his work on the Broadway musical Here Lies Love to DreamWorks’ Easter Sunday and his efforts to bring Filipino American talent to larger platforms.Shawn and Jo also share a fascinating conversation about Michael Jackson, with Sean recalling his experiences visiting Jackson’s home and discussing the legendary entertainer’s work ethic, business mindset, and advice about knowing your own worth.
Jo gets candid about the realities of the comedy business, including Hollywood’s historical barriers for Black, Asian, and Latino comedians, the legendary Fat Tuesdays comedy scene, and the comedians who emerged from those difficult environments, including Bernie Mac, Steve Harvey, Chris Tucker, and Bill Bellamy.
He also tells the story of how he turned a Netflix rejection into an opportunity, self-funding and filming Live from Seattle before eventually getting Netflix’s attention. Jo discusses the lessons he learned from comedy legends like Eddie Murphy, Paul Mooney, and Cedric the Entertainer, and reveals his upcoming project Pass the Mic, created with Martin Lawrence to spotlight comedians who deserve a bigger platform.
From comedy and music to Hollywood, representation, and the importance of staying focused on your own journey, this is a wide-ranging conversation with one of entertainment’s most recognizable voices.
Watch Jo Koy’s new Netflix special, Blue in the Face, and check out the full conversation now.

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2 hr 7 min
September 09 Josh Johnson
In this episode of On That Note, Shawn Stockman sits down with Josh Johnson — the sharp, thoughtful, and relentlessly prolific comedian, writer, and performer known for his work on The Daily Show, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and his viral topical stand-up comedy.
Josh opens up about the creative process behind his weekly stand-up output, how he balances politics, race, relationships, family, money, and modern America in his material, and why comedy can be both a release and a form of truth-telling.
He also talks about growing up in Alexandria, Louisiana, discovering music through Disney soundtracks and vinyl records, and the lessons that shaped his voice as an artist.
This conversation goes deep on:
• Josh Johnson’s career journey from writer to on-air correspondent
• His approach to topical stand-up and releasing comedy consistently
• The power of social commentary, honesty, and timing in comedy
• Why the best comedians make audiences laugh and think
• Childhood memories, music, physical media, and family influence
• Advice Josh would give his younger self
If you love Josh Johnson interviews, stand-up comedy, late night writers, comedy podcasts, political humor, Black comedy, and thoughtful conversations about entertainment and culture, this episode is for you.

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2 hr 3 min
September 02 KEM
Chart topping artist KEM joins On That Note for a conversation about overcoming some of life's challenges early on and his enormous success in music . The Motown artist speaks on his chart topping success and tells some industry stories of his along the way. He speaks on the opportunity to meet one of his inspirations, Al Jarreau, and how KEM was still bussing tables at the Ritz Carlton when it happened.
Fast forwarding a bit the singer-songwriter has amassed ten number one records such as “Love Calls,” "It's You," "Lie to Me," and more which has made him a pillar in R&B. His albums, KEM, KEM Album II, and Intimacy, all earned him platinum and gold certifications.
Taking it back to his childhood he attributes names like Tom Browne and "Jamaica Funk" as a record that impacted his musical trajectory. KEM mentions his parents having Jazz records in the house and musicians like Michael Franks being a lot of what he listened to. KEM also discusses the parts of him he had to leave behind. After struggling with addiction he discusses using his faith to overcome alcohol and drug addiction which in turn changed his life.
KEM now owns and operates a non-profit organization called Mack & Third Foundation, dedicated to aiding homelessness in Detroit. KEM tells the story of the inspiration of the name and his time at the Detroit Rescue Mission back in the 90's that all played a part in his anthropological journey. He has been actively giving back to communities in Detroit.

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1 hr 37 min
August 26 Taylor Williams
The Beauty in Black star sits down and has a fun conversation with Shawn Stockman full of laughs. The two discuss her acting career, starring in shows like , All American: Homecoming, Snowfall, and most recently as Kimmie in the Tyler Perry Netflix Series Beauty in Black. Getting her start back in 2008, she has worked alongside some of the biggest names in the industry like Martin Lawrence, Cedric The Entertainer, Mike Epps, James Earl Jones, and Margaret Avery.
That set the bar very high for the young star's acting career. Shawn also asks some in depth questions in regards to her role in Divorce in the Black, where she played Rona the voice of reason to Meagan Good's character Ava. Taylor mentions her experience as Kimmie on Tyler Perry's Netflix Series Beauty in Black and how she handled such a central role. She speaks on her character's transformation and development throughout the series. She even gives five songs on her "Kimmie" playlist that help her get in the right headspace for the role.
Outside of acting Taylor has also volunteered for the Peace For Kids Foundation, crediting a film titled Night Comes On, directed by Jordana Spiro and co-written with Angelica Nwandu. The film premiered at Sundance and upon meeting Angelica, she was inspired by her story and volunteered for the organization herself.
Other topics include a speed round jam packed with questions on Taylor's preferences, being cast in Season Four of Reasonable Doubt, her advice to her younger self, and two musical performances including T-Pain's "Buy You A Drank" and Boyz II Men's "On Bended Knee."

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1 hr
August 19 Lecrae
Lecrae sits down and has a deep conversation with Shawn about an unorthodox way to mix music and faith. The two discuss Lecrae's childhood, growing up in Houston, TX. Lecrae gives some of his earliest memories in music, and listening to names like The Parliaments, Funkadelic, and Ohio Brothers.
The Houston native spent his summers in Southern California with this grandmother, and he attributes a lot of his appreciation of music to Dr. Dre. His grandmother's heavy religious influence on his life caused him to go through a spiritual awakening at the early age of 19-20. He even mentions studying Rastafarianism as part of his journey.
The Billboard Top 200 artist speaks on his achievement, with his album Anomaly, and both the love he received as well as some of the pushback from the church. With names like Paul Wall on the album, it sparked caused controversy as to what traditional "gospel" music should sound like. Lecrae goes in depth on what it is like to be not just an artist but a culture creator, and how pushing boundaries in his career turned into some of his greatest successes.
Stick around until the end for an acoustic rendition of Lecrae's song "I'll Find You"

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1 hr 9 min