Raphael Saadiq, born Charles Ray Wiggins on May 14, 1966, in Oakland, California, stands as a beacon of modern soul and R&B music. This multi-talented singer, songwriter, and record producer began his music career in the 1980s as a member of the multiplatinum group Tony! Toni! Toné! He established himself not just as a prominent vocalist but also as a respected bassist. After the group disbanded in the mid-1990s, Saadiq embarked on a successful solo career, infusing his music with the rich traditions of old-school R&B, funk, and Motown, while simultaneously embracing contemporary sensibilities.

Over the years, Raphael Saadiq has evolved into a venerated figure in the music industry, recognized for his slick production skills and evocative songwriting. His solo discography is marked by critically acclaimed albums such as "Instant Vintage," "The Way I See It," and "Stone Rollin'," each embodying a unique blend of classic and modern sounds. The release of his 2019 album "Jimmy Lee" – a deeply personal narrative named after his late brother – showcased Saadiq's profound storytelling abilities. Beyond his solo endeavors, he has collaborated with a diverse roster of artists and contributed richly to soundtracks and scores, such as those for "Marvel's Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur," "L.A.'s Finest," and Netflix's "From Scratch." Saadiq's artistry not only reflects his own creative evolution but also echoes the ongoing story of African American music.

Genres

Funk

Neo Soul

Soul

Related Artists

John Legend

D'Angelo

Bilal

Maxwell

Erykah Badu

Musiq Soulchild

Alicia Keys

Anthony Hamilton

Jill Scott

India.Arie

The Weeknd

Kendrick Lamar

Latest Release

TEXAS HOLD 'EM (Piano Version)

Raphael Saadiq

Single - Released March 28, 2024