Debra Killings Talks TLC, Madonna, & The Real Grind of Being a Session Musician

Listen on your favorite podcast service: https://pods.to/wesoundcrazy Join our We Sound Crazy email list: https://ffm.link/wsc-signup Stream songs from the episode on our official We Sound Crazy playlists: https://lnkfi.re/8I8Drkfz This week, the crew welcomes Gerell Webb, founder of Keep It G and the G-Series Fitness App.  Gerell, a celebrity trainer known for his no-nonsense approach and "tough love," dives into the surprising parallels between the music industry and the fitness world, discussing the mental and physical demands on high performers. Get ready for a lively debate on top five female rappers, hilarious gym anecdotes (including who's always late and who almost got kicked out!), and an in-depth look at Keep It G's core message of authenticity. Gerell also shares invaluable advice on prioritizing health for busy professionals and unpacks the science behind sleep, nutrition, and strength training. Plus, don't miss the 60-day fitness challenge issued to the hosts! Tune in for an episode packed with motivation, real talk, and plenty of laughs.   We Sound Crazy is your backstage pass to all things music and culture. Special thanks to our We Sound Crazy team! Director: Aaron Walton Camera Op: Bryan Williams, Aaron Walton Editing: Lamont Baldwin Producer: Aaron Walton Show Producer/Remixer: Michael "Roux" Johnson Assistant: Brittany Guydon Photography: Darius Jones    Thank you to all of our listeners, as well as our partners at Visit Music City.   Special thanks to Gerell Webb! Subscribe to We Sound Crazy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere you get your favorite podcast.  Follow We Sound Crazy on Social Media: ~ Facebook: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscfacebook ~ Instagram: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscinstagram ~ Twitter: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wsctwitter ~ TikTok: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wsctiktok Subscribe to We Sound Crazy on YouTube: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscyoutube-subscribe Visit the official We Sound Crazy website: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/officialwebsite #WeSoundCrazy #GerellWebb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen on your favorite podcast service: https://pods.to/wesoundcrazy Join our We Sound Crazy email list: https://ffm.link/wsc-signup Stream songs from the episode on our official We Sound Crazy playlists: https://lnkfi.re/8I8Drkfz Get ready for a masterclass in musical innovation! This week on the We Sound Crazy Podcast, we're thrilled to welcome none other than Grammy-winning pianist, composer, and bandleader, Robert Glasper. Known for his genre-bending artistry that seamlessly blends jazz, hip-hop, R&B, and soul, Glasper has redefined modern music with his groundbreaking "Black Radio" series and collaborations with everyone from Kendrick Lamar to Erykah Badu. Join Phil, Tamone, Claude, and Chuck as they delve into Glasper's unparalleled career, his unique approach to creation, and the stories behind some of his most iconic tracks. You won't want to miss this insightful and inspiring conversation with one of the most influential musicians of our time!  We Sound Crazy is your backstage pass to all things music and culture. Special thanks to our We Sound Crazy team! Director: Aaron Walton Camera Op: Bryan Williams, Aaron Walton Editing: Lamont Baldwin Producer: Aaron Walton Show Producer/Remixer: Michael "Roux" Johnson Assistant: Brittany Guydon Photography: Darius Jones   Thank you to all of our listeners, as well as our partners at Visit Music City.   Special thanks to Robert Glasper! Subscribe to We Sound Crazy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere you get your favorite podcast.  Follow We Sound Crazy on Social Media: ~ Facebook: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscfacebook ~ Instagram: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscinstagram ~ Twitter: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wsctwitter ~ TikTok: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wsctiktok Subscribe to We Sound Crazy on YouTube: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscyoutube-subscribe Visit the official We Sound Crazy website: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/officialwebsite #WeSoundCrazy #RobertGlasper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen on your favorite podcast service: https://pods.to/wesoundcrazy Join our We Sound Crazy email list: https://ffm.link/wsc-signup Stream songs from the episode on our official We Sound Crazy playlists: https://lnkfi.re/8I8Drkfz This week on We Sound Crazy, we’re joined by the powerhouse vocalist, actor, and all-around creative force Luke James. From humble beginnings to Hollywood and beyond, Luke takes us on a journey through his multidimensional career. From penning hits for music icons like Beyoncé and Chris Brown to captivating audiences on screen in shows like The Chi and Star, Luke has mastered the art of storytelling through both sound and performance. He shares how a fateful introduction to Tyrese jump-started his music journey and opened doors to the industry.  Luke reflects on the transformative experience of portraying Johnny Gill in the acclaimed New Edition Story — a role that not only deepened his artistry but reignited his passion for music, especially after working closely with the legendary Babyface.  Now, with new music on the horizon, Luke is tapping into a fresh creative chapter—one that’s as soulful and fearless as ever. And of course, he bodied our signature segment, "Take It To The Bridge," delivering a moment that had the whole room speechless.  You don’t want to miss this unforgettable episode with Luke James—an artist who continues to evolve, inspire, and take us higher.  Press Play!!   We Sound Crazy is your backstage pass to all things music and culture. Special thanks to our We Sound Crazy team! Director: John Dierre Camera Op: James Hart, Kenny Cochran, John Dierre Editing: Lamont Baldwin Sound Mixer: Sbarina Cedeno Producer: Aaron Walton Show Producer/Remixer: Michael "Roux" Johnson Assistant: Brittany Guydon Talent Producer: Isaac Hamm III Photography: Ah'meer Holt   PA: Kaye Brasley, Tony Cole  Thank you to all of our listeners, as well as our partners at Visit Music City.   Special thanks to Luke James! Subscribe to We Sound Crazy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere you get your favorite podcast.  Follow We Sound Crazy on Social Media: ~ Facebook: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscfacebook ~ Instagram: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscinstagram ~ Twitter: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wsctwitter ~ TikTok: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wsctiktok Subscribe to We Sound Crazy on YouTube: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscyoutube-subscribe Visit the official We Sound Crazy website: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/officialwebsite #WeSoundCrazy #LukeJames Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen on your favorite podcast service: https://pods.to/wesoundcrazy Join our We Sound Crazy email list: https://ffm.link/wsc-signup Stream songs from the episode on our official We Sound Crazy playlists: https://lnkfi.re/8I8Drkfz This week, the incredible Debra Killings—vocalist, bassist, and unsung hero of countless hits—joins the We Sound Crazy podcast for a deep and inspiring conversation. Known for her unmistakable background vocals on hits from TLC, OutKast, Monica, and even Madonna, Debra pulls back the curtain on a legendary career that has shaped the sound of modern music. She shares what it really takes to survive and thrive as a session musician, from long hours and tight deadlines to the discipline and hustle behind the scenes. Debra reflects on her journey as a singer, bassist, and solo artist, her years with LaFace Records, and the importance of staying grounded while navigating the highs and lows of the industry.  Whether you know her voice or her name—or both—you’ll want to hear every minute of this episode.  So, press PLAY!  We Sound Crazy is your backstage pass to all things music and culture. Special thanks to our We Sound Crazy team! Director: John Dierre Camera Op: James Hart, Kenny Cochran, John Dierre Editing: Lamont Baldwin Sound Mixer: Sbarina Cedeno Producer: Aaron Walton Show Producer/Remixer: Michael "Roux" Johnson Assistant: Brittany Guydon Talent Producer: Isaac Hamm III Photography: Ah'meer Holt   PA: Kaye Brasley, Tony Cole  Thank you to all of our listeners, as well as our partners at Visit Music City.   Special thanks to Debra Killings! Subscribe to We Sound Crazy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere you get your favorite podcast.  Follow We Sound Crazy on Social Media: ~ Facebook: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscfacebook ~ Instagram: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscinstagram ~ Twitter: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wsctwitter ~ TikTok: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wsctiktok Subscribe to We Sound Crazy on YouTube: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscyoutube-subscribe Visit the official We Sound Crazy website: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/officialwebsite #WeSoundCrazy #DebraKillings Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen on your favorite podcast service: https://pods.to/wesoundcrazy Stream songs from the episode on our official We Sound Crazy playlists: https://lnkfi.re/8I8Drkfz This week on We Sound Crazy, we're joined by none other than Montell Jordan — author, pastor, and Grammy-nominated artist whose music defined an era. From his explosive debut with the timeless anthem "This Is How We Do It" to writing and producing chart-topping hits for other artists, Montell sits down with the crew to share the full scope of his incredible journey. He opens up about his early days in the industry, the evolution of his career, the stories behind the hits, and how faith and purpose shaped his life beyond the spotlight. Tune in for a powerful, inspiring, and nostalgic conversation with one of R&B's most iconic voices.   We Sound Crazy is your backstage pass to all things music and culture. Special thanks to our We Sound Crazy team! Director: John Dierre Camera Op: James Hart, Kenny Cochran, John Dierre Editing: Lamont Baldwin Sound Mixer: Sbarina Cedeno Producer: Aaron Walton Show Producer/Remixer: Michael "Roux" Johnson Assistant: Brittany Guydon Talent Producer: Isaac Hamm III Photography: Ah'meer Holt   PA: Kaye Brasley, Tony Cole   Thank you to all of our listeners, as well as our partners at Visit Music City.   Special thanks to Montell Jordan! Subscribe to We Sound Crazy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere you get your favorite podcast.  Follow We Sound Crazy on Social Media: ~ Facebook: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscfacebook ~ Instagram: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscinstagram ~ Twitter: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wsctwitter ~ TikTok: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wsctiktok ~ Email: https://ffm.link/wsc-signup Subscribe to We Sound Crazy on YouTube: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscyoutube-subscribe Visit the official We Sound Crazy website: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/officialwebsite #WeSoundCrazy #MontellJordan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen on your favorite podcast service: https://pods.to/wesoundcrazy Stream songs from the episode on our official We Sound Crazy playlists: https://lnkfi.re/8I8Drkfz This week on We Sound Crazy, things get bold, brilliant, and downright hilarious as the one and only Funky Dineva pulls up to the mic! Known for his razor-sharp wit, encyclopedic knowledge of music, and unfiltered commentary, Funky Dineva dives deep into the culture with the crew—serving hot takes, throwing it back to the classics, and pushing fresh ideas for the future of award shows and entertainment. No topic is off-limits and no artist is safe as Funky shares his candid thoughts on the current music scene, the industry’s biggest blind spots, and the timeless tracks he can recite at the drop of a beat. Expect laughs, truth bombs, and a whole lot of quotables in this unforgettable episode. Press that play button! We Sound Crazy is your backstage pass to all things music and culture. Special thanks to our We Sound Crazy team! Director: John Dierre Camera Op: James Hart, Kenny Cochran, John Dierre Editing: Lamont Baldwin Sound Mixer: Sbarina Cedeno Producer: Aaron Walton Show Producer/Remixer: Michael "Roux" Johnson Assistant: Brittany Guydon Talent Producer: Isaac Hamm III Photography: Ah'meer Holt   PA: Kaye Brasley, Tony Cole  Thank you to all of our listeners, as well as our partners at Visit Music City.   Special thanks to Funky Dineva! Subscribe to We Sound Crazy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere you get your favorite podcast.  Follow We Sound Crazy on Social Media: ~ Facebook: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscfacebook ~ Instagram: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscinstagram ~ Twitter: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wsctwitter ~ TikTok: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wsctiktok ~ Email: https://ffm.link/wsc-signup Subscribe to We Sound Crazy on YouTube: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscyoutube-subscribe Visit the official We Sound Crazy website: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/officialwebsite #WeSoundCrazy #FunkyDineva Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen on your favorite podcast service: https://pods.to/wesoundcrazy Stream songs from the episode on our official We Sound Crazy playlists: https://lnkfi.re/8I8Drkfz Get ready for a truly unforgettable episode of We Sound Crazy! This week, we are honored to welcome the legendary Regina Belle to the show! Join us as we delve into the incredible career of this Grammy Award-winning songstress. From her soulful ballads that topped the charts to her unforgettable contribution to Disney's The Lion King, Regina shares the stories behind her biggest hits and the journey that launched her into the music industry. We'll explore the magic behind iconic songs like "Make It Like It Was," "If I Could," "Baby Come To Me" and hear firsthand accounts of the recording process and the impact these tracks had. Regina will also take us back to the beginning, sharing insights into her early days and the pivotal moments that shaped her path. And of course, no conversation with Regina Belle would be complete without discussing her powerful duet with Peabo Bryson on "A Whole New World" from The Lion King. Get ready to hear behind-the-scenes stories about creating this timeless Disney classic and its enduring legacy. Join your hosts Phil Thornton, Tamone Bacon, Claude Kelly, and Chuck Harmony as they get up close and personal with Regina Belle, uncovering fascinating anecdotes, musical inspirations, and the secrets to her remarkable longevity in the music world. This is an episode you won't want to miss! Subscribe to We Sound Crazy wherever you get your podcasts! We Sound Crazy is your backstage pass to all things music and culture. Special thanks to our We Sound Crazy team! Director: John Dierre Camera Op: James Hart, Kenny Cochran, John Dierre Editing: Lamont Baldwin Sound Mixer: Sbarina Cedeno Producer: Aaron Walton Show Producer/Remixer: Michael "Roux" Johnson Assistant: Brittany Guydon Talent Producer: Isaac Hamm III Photography: Ah'meer Holt   PA: Kaye Brasley, Tony Cole Thank you to all of our listeners, as well as our partners at Visit Music City.   Special thanks to Regina Belle! Subscribe to We Sound Crazy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere you get your favorite podcast.  Follow We Sound Crazy on Social Media: ~ Facebook: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscfacebook ~ Instagram: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscinstagram ~ Twitter: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wsctwitter ~ TikTok: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wsctiktok ~ Email: https://ffm.link/wsc-signup Subscribe to We Sound Crazy on YouTube: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscyoutube-subscribe Visit the official We Sound Crazy website: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/officialwebsite #WeSoundCrazy #ReginaBelle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen on your favorite podcast service: https://pods.to/wesoundcrazy Stream songs from the episode on our official We Sound Crazy playlists: https://lnkfi.re/8I8Drkfz This week on We Sound Crazy, we're joined by the incredibly talented singer, songwriter, and Berklee College of Music professor Keli Nicole Price! With an impressive catalog of hit songs and a deep understanding of the music industry, Keli takes us on a journey through her career—sharing stories behind the songs she’s written such as 'Deja Vu' by Beyoncé, 'Make it Hot' by Nicole Wray, and 'Can't Get Enough' by Tamia, which most didn't know she'd written! Keli Nicole Price shares the challenges she’s faced as a creative in the business, and the wisdom she now passes on as an educator. She also dives into her longtime friendship with our very own Phillionaire, reminiscing on their early days in the industry and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. From chart-topping collaborations to the realities of navigating the ever-changing music landscape, Keli keeps it real, insightful, and inspiring. Tune in for an episode filled with laughs, knowledge, and behind-the-scenes gems you won’t hear anywhere else. Press play and dive in! We Sound Crazy is your backstage pass to all things music and culture. Special thanks to our We Sound Crazy team! Director: John Dierre Camera Op: James Hart, Josh Sowemimo, John Dierre A2: Sabrina Cedeno Photography: Ah'meer Holt  Security: Tony DeWitt  Editing: Lamont Baldwin Producer: Michael "Roux" Johnson Assistant: Brittany Guydon Talent Producer: Isaac Hamm III Thank you to all of our listeners, as well as our partners at Visit Music City.   Special thanks to Keli Nicole Price! Subscribe to We Sound Crazy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere you get your favorite podcast.  Follow We Sound Crazy on Social Media: ~ Facebook: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscfacebook ~ Instagram: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscinstagram ~ Twitter: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wsctwitter ~ TikTok: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wsctiktok ~ Email: https://ffm.link/wsc-signup Subscribe to We Sound Crazy on YouTube: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscyoutube-subscribe Visit the official We Sound Crazy website: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/officialwebsite #WeSoundCrazy #KeliNicolePrice Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get ready for an inspiring and deeply personal conversation with Karla Redding-Andrews and Justin Andrews, the heart and soul behind the Otis Redding Foundation and the guardians of Otis Redding's timeless musical legacy. We explore the profound impact of Otis Redding's music, from his iconic hits to his enduring influence on generations of artists. Discover the vital work of the Otis Redding Foundation in nurturing young talent through arts and music programs, and celebrate the grand opening of the state-of-the-art Otis Redding Center for the Arts. Plus, we'll be sharing incredible stories passed down by the legendary Zelma Redding, widow of Otis Redding and President & Founder of the Otis Redding Foundation, offering unique insights into his life and legacy. We'll also delve into the complexities of managing a legendary estate, including the fascinating process of clearing iconic songs for use in modern productions, like the unforgettable "Otis (feat. Otis Redding)" collaboration between JAY-Z and Kanye West. And finally, get an exciting glimpse into the upcoming biopic starring Jon Boyega, centered around Zelma Redding's remarkable story, and how it will bring Otis Redding's legacy to a new generation. This episode is a must-listen for music lovers and anyone passionate about preserving and celebrating artistic legacies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen on your favorite podcast service: https://pods.to/wesoundcrazy Stream songs from the episode on our official We Sound Crazy playlists: https://lnkfi.re/8I8Drkfz On this episode of We Sound Crazy, we sit down with the legendary, Grammy-winning producer and songwriter Bryan-Michael Cox—the mastermind behind some of the most iconic R&B records of our time. From his humble beginnings as an intern at Atlanta’s Noontime Productions to shaping the sound of artists like Usher, Muni Long, Mariah Carey, Ari Lennox, Mary J. Blige, and countless others, B. Cox shares his incredible journey through the music industry. We dive deep into his creative process, the art of reinvention, and what it takes to stay relevant in an ever-changing industry. Plus, he drops gems on working with today’s fresh talent and the evolution of R&B. You don’t want to miss this exclusive conversation with one of the greatest musical architects of our generation!  We Sound Crazy is your backstage pass to all things music and culture. Special thanks to our We Sound Crazy team! Director: John Dierre Camera Op: James Hart, Josh Sowemimo, John Dierre A2: Sabrina Cedeno Photography: Ah'meer Holt  Security: Tony DeWitt  Editing: Lamont Baldwin Producer: Michael "Roux" Johnson Assistant: Brittany Guydon Talent Producer: Isaac Hamm III  Thank you to all of our listeners, as well as our partners at Visit Music City.   Special thanks to Bryan-Micahel Cox! Subscribe to We Sound Crazy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere you get your favorite podcast.  Follow We Sound Crazy on Social Media: ~ Facebook: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscfacebook ~ Instagram: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscinstagram ~ Twitter: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wsctwitter ~ TikTok: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wsctiktok ~ Email: https://ffm.link/wsc-signup Subscribe to We Sound Crazy on YouTube: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/wscyoutube-subscribe Visit the official We Sound Crazy website: https://wesoundcrazy.ffm.to/officialwebsite #WeSoundCrazy #Bryan-MicahelCox Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices