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 on We Sound Crazy, we're honored to host the phenomenal Estelle, a Grammy-winning international superstar whose career has left an indelible mark on music! From her West London upbringing to her latest album, Stay Alta, Estelle dives deep into her philosophy of choosing light, navigating the industry, and the profound influence of her musical heroes. Tune in as she breaks down the creation of her new hit song "Roses" during "the Panini" (her endearing term for the pandemic), and shares the surprising origin of "American Boy." Estelle opens up about her incredible collaborative spirit, the importance of artistic integrity, and her encounters with legends, including a truly wild and inspiring story about Prince. Beyond her own artistry, Estelle champions other talent on her Apple Music radio program, The Estelle Show, which has reached over 1,000 episodes! She also weighs in on the timeless debate of 80s vs. 90s music, and participates in our signature "Keep or Kill" game, offering bold opinions on Brandy vs. Monica, Diana Ross vs. Chaka Khan, and more.   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, Mike Johnson Editing/Producer: Lamont Baldwin Show Producer/Remixer: Michael "Roux" Johnson Assistant: Brittany Guydon Photography: Kaylee Steffel     Thank you to all of our listeners, as well as our partners at Visit Music City.   Special thanks to Estelle! 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 #Estelle 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 deep dive into the world of TA Thomas, Mississippi's own singer, songwriter, and producer, as he joins the We Sound Crazy couch! From his early days as the "bridge guy" in the collective Next Town Down to earning a Grammy nomination for his co-write on Chris Brown's Breezy album, TA Thomas's journey is a testament to artistic evolution. He's blazing a unique trail by blending R&B, blues, country, and soul into a sound he proudly calls Southern Soul. His latest project, The Southern Soul EP, is out now and ready for you to vibe to. A true vocal architect, TA discusses how his church upbringing and deep appreciation for hymns and gospel music inform his rich, layered sound. He shares insights into his creative process, including his preference for live instrumentation over loops and his collaborative spirit, working with talents like Lucky Daye, Tunji Balogun of Def Jam Records, and Diane Warren. TA opens up about the inspirations behind Southern Soul, defining it as "your favorite R&B record being sung in church" and sharing his favorite artists within the genre, from Sir Charles Jones to Sam Cooke. He also touches on the current resurgence of Southern Soul and what it means to him as someone raised on its rich traditions. Beyond the music, TA gives us a glimpse into life on the road, from his unique tour essentials (including that infamous "Merce" bag!) to the spiritual journey of his live performances. He discusses the invaluable lessons learned in the music industry, including the importance of staying grounded, prioritizing mental health through journaling, and leaning on family during tough times.   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, Mike Johnson, Aaron Walton Editing/Producer: Lamont Baldwin Show Producer/Remixer: Michael "Roux" Johnson Assistant: Brittany Guydon Photography: Kaylee Steffel    Thank you to all of our listeners, as well as our partners at Visit Music City.   Special thanks to TA Thomas! 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 #TAThomas 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 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 On this episode, the vocal powerhouse and R&B icon pulls back the curtain on her incredible journey through the music industry. Chanté takes us back to being discovered at just 18 and signed by legendary exec Benny Medina—only to be dropped before her debut ever hit shelves. She reflects on what that early heartbreak taught her, and how it shaped the artist she would become. We dive into her run on R&B Divas, the behind-the-scenes pressures of reality TV, and her near miss at joining the LaFace Records roster under Babyface and L.A. Reid. But in a full-circle moment, Chanté shares the exciting news that she's finally collaborating with Babyface on an upcoming record. Fans will also be fascinated to hear how her voice inspired the iconic opening synthesizer keys intro to SWV’s “Weak,” and what it was like teaming up with R. Kelly for the classic duet “Contagious.” It's a candid, empowering, and musical ride through the highs, the lows, and the anointed voice that keeps rising above it all.   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 Chanté Moore! 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 #ChantéMoore 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 Welcome to another episode of We Sound Crazy, your official backstage pass to all things music and culture!  This week, we are honored to welcome R&B-Pop icon, Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and genius, Ne-Yo to the podcast.  In this extensive conversation, Ne-Yo shares insights from his remarkable 20-year career, discussing his approach to touring then versus now, emphasizing his commitment to live performances over lip-syncing.  He reflects on the recent "Mary J. Blige Strength of a Woman Tour" with special guest Mario, highlighting the amazing experience and the powerful moment of performing "You Should Let Me Love You" with Mario for the first time.  Ne-Yo delves into his early career, including his challenging experience with Columbia Records and the creative freedom he found at Def Jam under L.A. Reid, which shaped his debut album.   He discusses the evolution of R&B, the importance of male vulnerability in songwriting, and how it is a subject matter he still wishes to explore in his music. He and Chuck Harmony recount the serendipitous story of their first collaboration, which sparked Harmony's career and led to Ne-Yo writing hits for Céline Dion, Mary J. Blige, and Janet Jackson in a single night!  Ne-Yo also shares the creation process behind his own hits like "So Sick" and "Closer," revealing how L.A. Reid strategically planned the release of "Stay" before "So Sick" as a "jab before the knockout punch."  He recounts the surprising origin of Beyoncé's "Flaws and All," initially intended for Britney Spears, and how Rihanna’s "Good Girl Gone Bad" album also came from songs originally written for Britney.  Ne-Yo shares his desire to collaborate with Stevie Wonder, who, along with Michael Jackson, influenced his acceptance of his own voice.  He also tells the wild story of his group Envy's disastrous performance on Showtime at the Apollo.  Finally, Ne-Yo addresses his personal life, discussing his decision to be open about his polyamorous relationships and offering candid advice on honesty and living authentically.  This is one for the books! So you don't want to miss it.  Stop what every else you're doing and press play now! 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: Darius Jones, 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 Ne-Yo and the Compound Entertainment team! 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 #Ne-Yo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We Sound Crazy welcomes television and music pioneer Stephen Hill — the legendary executive behind some of the most iconic moments in Black entertainment culture. From shaping BET’s golden era with shows like 106 & Park, BET Awards, and Rap City, to his impact as a music industry tastemaker, Hill brings decades of experience, insight, and incredible stories to the table. In this episode, the We Sound Crazy crew dives into Stephen’s remarkable journey—from boardrooms to backstage, from the evolution of Black music on TV to the future of entertainment. Stephen shares the incredible story of how he managed to land Beyoncé for the 2016 BET Awards by personally showing up at her Formation World Tour dates, often the only executive present, determined to find a way for her to say yes. He also recounts the unforgettable moment at the 2007 BET Awards when Jennifer Hudson and Jennifer Holliday performed "And I'm Not Telling You I'm Not Going" – a performance made even more special by the fact that it was the very first time the two singers met, a meeting orchestrated despite film studio restrictions. With his signature wit, wisdom, and candor, Stephen opens up about these career highlights, cultural milestones, and the power of authentic storytelling. Don’t miss this electric conversation with one of the industry’s most influential voices. 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