| Biography |
Jody
Watley's career has spanned over 20 years. Jody got her start as a teenager,
on the popular show "Soul Train" hosted by Don Cornelius. She was a featured
dancer on the show, and eventually got her big break when she was asked to
join the R&B group Shalamar. As a member of Shalamar during the late 70s, Jody helped the group achieve R&B and pop success as the group racked up a string of hits, including: "A night to Remember", "Second Time Around", and the classic "For the Lover in You", which singer Babyface remade in 1996.
Jody's second big break came when she signed with MCA records in 1987 and launched her solo career. Her debut album, the self titled "Jody Watley" went platinum plus, and earned her a Grammy award for best new artist in 1988.
The first single of the album, "Looking for a new love" was an instant smash across the board, going to #1 on the pop, R&B, and dance charts. She had four other hits off that album, including: "Still a Thrill", "Don't You Want Me", "Some Kind of Lover", and "Most of All." The videos from this album were so hot and eye-catching that Jody established herself as a favorite for MTV and VH-1.
Jody's
second album, "Larger than Life", released in 1989, solidified her as a pop
icon in the music industry. The first release, "Real Love" was a mega-hit,
achieving gold status and setting a trend with her new style of bass-thumping
dance. Two other hits followed from this album, including: "Friends" (with
Erik B. and Rakim), and "Everything". The latter showcased Jody's softer side,
and proved to her fans that she is more than just a dance diva. Jody, in fact,
is a versatile and exceptional songstress. Unlike some female artist who thrive on always being in the pop spotlight, Jody decided to tone things down with her third release, "Affairs of the Heart." This album featured more ballads than Jody was used to recording. And if one listens carefully to the album, they instantly notice the smooth, soulful vocals Jody puts out.
Although this album did not go platinum like her previous albums, it received rave reviews and did feature two big hits. They included: "I Want You", and the dance smash, "I'm The One You Need." Jody also released the single, "It All Begins With You", which to date, is one of her best ballad recordings.
In 1993 Jody released yet another MCA album, entitled "Intimacy." It features such hits as "Your Loves Keeps Working On Me", and the sexy rap/hip-hop tune "When A Man Loves A Woman." But shortly after the release of this single, Jody left MCA records and began the works for starting her own record label.
In 1995 Jody released the album, "Affection", on her own Avitone label. It was distributed and marketed through Bellmark Records. The first single, "Affection" was an instant R&B hit. The release of the album showcased Jody's talent as a writer, producer, and singer. Her vocals are sharp and have lots of range.
Jody also directed the video for "Affection", as she always likes to be 100% involved in all aspects of her projects. In the past, Jody has worked with some of the best video producers in the industry, including: Dominic Sena (Janet Jackson videos), and David Fincher (Madonna videos and the movie "The Seven Deadly Sins").
In addition to her own solo projects, Jody has also recorded songs for a number of popular soundtracks, including: "White Men Can't Jump", "Switch", and "Beverly Hills 90210." She also sang on two charity albums: "Band-Aid" that came out in the early 80s, and "Red, Hot and Blue", released in 1990.
Not only does Jody put out great music, but she is one of the hottest trend setters in the entertainment industry. She has been recognized as one of the most beautiful people in the world by People magazine, and as one of the most beautiful women in America by Harper's Bazaar magazine. She has also graced the covers of numerous US and international publications,including Essence magazine and Jet.
In 1996, Jody went a step further, and proved that she can also act. She played the part of "Rizzo" in the hit broadway play, "Grease." This made her one of the first African-American women to play this coveted role.
Look for Jody in other places. She has done modeling for Sachs Fifth Avenue, Gap clothing and has even put out a fitness video entitled, "Dance to Fitness." And in 1996 MCA Records released a Greatest Hits album featuring some very hot dance remixes.
Determined to go the next level, Jody signed with Atlantic Records in 1997. Her debut album for Atlantic features the work of some of the hottest writers and producers on the music scene, including Dwayne Wiggins, Malik Pendleton, and more. As sure as the sun rises, so will Jody Watley's star power. She is truly one of the most talented and genuine artist in the entertainment field today !
