Musiq Soulchild - Music from the heart........

Musiq Soulchild (real name Taalib Johnson) is a neo-soul act with an instantly recognizable sound. His deeply soulful material commands attention, pulling you in to hear a message that resonates because it comes from something pure. A profound respect for the art and a genuine appreciation of true love.

His voice is something of a hybrid of Usher and Ne-yo, with a rugged overtone that gives it a 'realness' that's captivating.

His cadency takes unexpected turns, flowing seamlessly through the verses and drawing attention to the thoughtful lyrical content.

Prior to researching this piece, we didn't know a whole lot about Musiq. We had just heard a few of his tracks and thought that there was something quite special about him. On doing a little digging, we found that he has a fascinating story.

The eldest of nine children, he is quoted as saying that he always felt like the 'black sheep' of the family as he was always 'doing his own thing.' Hmmm.....for some reason, that seems to resonate... I wonder why :-)

This independent streak saw him dropping out of high school and leaving home at 17 to live on his own. Often sleeping rough, he had to rely on the generosity of friends and strangers for daily survival.

During this time, he became active in the local music scene, regularly attending open mic nights, and sometimes performing in the streets of Philadelphia. That's where he got the nickname 'Musiq' and he later added 'Soulchild' as homage to the classic soul artists that had come before him.

These experiences undoubtedly had a profound impact on Musiq, and it is a testament to his strength of character, that he was able to overcome them and achieve the success that followed.

The debut album Aijuswanaseing (I Just Want to Sing) emerged in 2000. It produced hit singles 'Just Friends' (Sunny) and 'Love', both of which appeared in the Hot 100. 'Love' spent an incredible 22 weeks in the chart.

The sophomore record Juslisen (Just Listen) arrived in 2002 and debuted at number 1 on the Billboard Charts going platinum. Soulstar followed the next year.

After a four year hiatus and a change of management, Musiq returned in 2007 with Luvanmusiq (Love and Music). It produced 'B.U.D.D.Y', 'Teachme', and 'Makeyouhappy'.

To date Musiq has had 2 platinum albums. and 2 gold records. He has also won a number of awards from Billboard, ASCAP, BET and others.

On My Radio, the fifth record from Musiq Soulchild is expected in late 2008.





Don't Change