b. Talib Johnson, 16th September 1977, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.A.
Philadelphia-born Talib Johnson, otherwise known as flourishing R & B artist Musiq Soulchild, who grew up the oldest of nine children and did not finish high school, is now receiving greater recognition.
Musiq, whose influences include James Brown, Patti LaBelle, Billie Holiday, and Sly and the Family Stone, participated in Philadelphia's open microphone scene in his early teens.
The son of a diehard 70's soul music fan, Musiq performed at Philly showcases like The Five Spot and Wilhemina's until his management team, Mama's Boys (Jerome Hipps and Michael McArthur), brought him to Def Jam Records' attention.
Musiq's debut album, 'Aijuswanaseing (I Just Want to Sing)' (2000, Def Jam), was recorded mostly at the Touch of Jazz studios in Philadelphia.
The track 'Girl Next Door' features the vocals of soul-sister Ayana of the duo Aaeries.
Musiq's first single, 'Just Friends (Sunny)' appeared on the soundtrack to 'Nutty Professor II: The Klumps' (Universal, 2000).
In 2002, a new album was released entitled 'Juslisen (Just Listen)' on Def Jam Records, featuring the single 'Half Crazy' and the fine ballad 'Don't Change'.
'Luvanmusiq' arrived in 2007.
Albums:
Aijuswanaseing (Def Jam 2000)
Juslisen (Def Jam 2002)
Soulstar (Def Soul 2003)
Luvanmusiq (Def Soul 2007)
