Gina Thompson: From Rodney Jerkins to R&B Legacy – The Story Behind “The Things You Do
In this episode of Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley, platinum-selling R&B artist Gina Thompson shares her journey from her New Jersey roots to working with super-producer Rodney Jerkins and releasing the hit single “The Things You Do.” She reflects on her early influences, recent UK music promotion, and what it's like collaborating with legends like Missy Elliott.Gina also opens up about navigating the highs and lows of the industry, the shift to independent artistry, and the importance of mental health, faith, and family. With new music on the horizon, she reveals her purpose in creating from the heart and staying true to herself.🎙️ Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley is a podcast featuring legendary and emerging funk, R&B, and Prince-associated artists. On air since 1982 and now spanning five decades, the show was personally spotlighted by Prince on his website in 2004. He also gifted us the One Nite Alone box set in 2002 — before any media outlet.
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Scottie Baldwin: Prince’s Live Sound Genius Tells All
Join Scottie Baldwin, the renowned front-of-house engineer for Prince, Madonna, and Lady Gaga, as he sits down with Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley for a masterclass in live sound artistry. Baldwin opens up about his unforgettable experiences working with Prince—highlighting his belief that Prince’s voice was his greatest instrument. He shares powerful reflections on capturing the emotional resonance of live performances and preserving the raw beauty of an artist’s vocal delivery.This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creative and technical side of some of the world’s most iconic shows. Baldwin details the evolution of his role from drum technician to creative collaborator and reveals how working with legends shaped his philosophy. From the intimacy of Prince’s Piano and a Microphone Tour to the future of music production in Asia, Baldwin’s stories offer rare insight into what truly makes a live performance unforgettable.🎙️ Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley is a podcast featuring legendary and emerging funk, R&B, and Prince-associated artists. On air since 1982 and now spanning five decades, the show was personally spotlighted by Prince on his website in 2004. He also gifted us the One Nite Alone box set in 2002 — before any media outlet.#Prince #Funk #npg #scottiebaldwin #MusiciansReveal
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Michael Cooper of Con Funk Shun on Silk Sonic, Stage Presence & R&B Legacy
Michael Cooper, iconic lead vocalist of the legendary funk and R&B group Con Funk Shun, joins Joe Kelley for a powerful conversation on Musicians Reveal. Cooper opens up about the emotional moment he experienced watching Silk Sonic perform the timeless hit “Love’s Train,” and how it reaffirmed the lasting impact of his music. He shares valuable insights into the importance of stage presence, artist aesthetics, and why first impressions matter long before a single note is played.🎙️ Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley is a podcast featuring legendary and emerging funk, R&B, and Prince-associated artists. On air since 1982 and now spanning five decades, the show was personally spotlighted by Prince on his website in 2004. He also gifted us the One Nite Alone box set in 2002 — before any media outlet.From his early days backing soul legends like Rufus Thomas to leading Con Funk Shun to chart-topping success, Cooper reflects on the band's evolution, legacy, and their rigorous touring schedule that keeps the funk alive today. The interview dives deep into the creative process, musical influences, and the unbreakable bond between bandmates. If you’re a fan of classic funk, R&B, or just great stories from a master of the craft, this episode delivers in every groove.🎧 More episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@musiciansreveal/playlists🌐 Website: https://musiciansreveal.com📻 Listen on Spotify / Apple: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rQAZZtdU2cZB6EeleSZ8J / https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/musicians-reveal-funk-soul-r-b-and-prince-associated/id1545165178🔔 Subscribe: https://youtube.com/@musiciansrevealCon Funk Shun: https://www.confunkshunusa.comCon Funk Shun Booking: https://www.confunkshunlive.comMusicians Reveal Mixcloud station: https://www.mixcloud.com/joekelleyradio/#MichaelCooper #ConFunkShun #SilkSonic #FunkMusic #MusiciansRevealPodcast.
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Tony M on Prince, Funk & Creative Freedom | NPG Legacy Revealed
Prince’s iconic funk legacy lives on through the voice of Tony M, the trailblazing rapper and frontman of The New Power Generation. In this exclusive Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley interview, Tony M dives deep into the funk, freedom, and fearless creativity that defined his journey alongside Prince.From his early days in Minneapolis and battle-of-the-bands competitions.Takeaways:Mosley reflects on his journey with Prince, emphasizing the significance of mentorship and the impact of their musical partnership.The podcast discusses the evolution of Mosley's artistry, particularly in embracing his identity as a rapper and lyricist.Mosley shares anecdotes of his experiences within the New Power Generation, illustrating the camaraderie and challenges faced on tour.#TonyM #Prince #NewPowerGeneration #FunkMusic #musiciansreveal Tony M and We Were The New Power Generation (NPG): https://thebandformerlyknownasnpg.comMusicians Reveal official website: https://www.musiciansreveal.comMusicians Reveal Mixcloud station: https://www.mixcloud.com/joekelleyradio/🎧 New interviews weekly.Musicians Reveal YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@musiciansreveal
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A Funk Audience with the Queen: Robert Mercurio on Galactic’s New Chapter
Robert Mercurio, the distinguished bassist and producer of the renowned New Orleans funk ensemble Galactic, graces the Musicians Reveal podcast with Joe Kelley to discuss the intricacies of their latest album, a collaborative effort with the legendary Irma Thomas. Our dialogue delves into the profound impact of the New Orleans music scene on their careers and the invigorating experience of performing at the Jazz Fest. Mercurio elucidates the challenges and rewards of transitioning from a rigorous touring schedule to a more balanced lifestyle in the wake of the pandemic. The conversation further explores the collaborative spirit prevalent in New Orleans, highlighting the significance of preserving musical legacies through artistic partnerships. As we navigate this engaging discourse, we gain insight into the creative processes that underpin the making of their latest record, which promises to resonate with both longtime fans and new listeners alike.Takeaways: Robert Mercurio discusses the exhilarating yet exhausting nature of performing multiple shows at jazz festivals, emphasizing the physical toll it can take on musicians as they age. The conversation highlights the communal and supportive atmosphere of the New Orleans music scene, where established artists actively mentor younger musicians without a competitive edge. Mercurio explains the creative process behind their new album with Irma Thomas, detailing the transition from merely covering songs to creating original material inspired by their collaboration. The significance of preserving musical legacies through collaboration is emphasized, showcasing Galactic's dedication to working with legendary artists like Irma Thomas and the impact of her life experiences on their music. In this episode, Mercurio reflects on the evolution of Galactic's sound and the importance of adapting to different influences while ensuring authenticity in their music. The discussion touches on the challenges of balancing artistic integrity with audience expectations, particularly as Galactic explores new musical directions and collaborations. Links referenced in this episode:GalacticFunk.comTipitinasRecordClub.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Galactic Irma Thomas Tipitina's Dragon Smoke Evan Neville Stanton Eric Lindell Rick Rubin Def Jam Records LL Cool J Bootsy Collins Bernard Odom James Brown Bad Brains Government Issue Dag Nasty Sex Pistols Cyril Neville Macy Gray Mavis Staples Frida Heady Wax Soul Life
Since 1982, Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley has spotlighted iconic and rising artists in funk, soul, R&B, and Prince’s musical family.
From its roots on NPR affiliate WVOF 88.5 FM to its thriving YouTube channel (13K+ subscribers, 4.6M+ views), the show delivers soulful, in-depth interviews with legends and unsung pioneers alike.
🎤 Hosted by Veteran music host and interviewer Joe Kelley, the show has featured:
Rock & Roll Hall of Famers & Grammy winners
Larry Graham, Mavis Staples, Patrice Rushen, Victor Wooten, Cyndi Lauper
Members of Prince’s Revolution, New Power Generation, The Time, and more
Icons from Zapp, Cameo, P-Funk, and beyond
🎶 In 2004, Prince featured Musicians Reveal on his NPG Music Club and invited Joe to premiere his One Nite Alone… box set in 2002—before any media outlet.
New interviews weekly.
🎧 Listen now and explore music history with the artists who shaped it.
🌐 Visit: www.musiciansreveal.com
Watch: www.youtube.com/@musiciansreveal
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