20 Relationship Lessons I Learned From Jill Scott’s Debut Album
Before the Neo-Soul singer’s anniversary tour kicks off, I reflect on this classic from 20 years ago
When I first moved to Philadelphia in 1998, I didn’t know a lot about its rich music history outside of more widely-known mainstream artists like Patti LaBelle, The O’Jays, Teddy Pendergrass, and DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince. As a New York City native, I quickly learned that Philly has long been a major cultural hub for some of the greatest R&B acts, many of whom navigated the underground scene playing for loyal audiences at local bars and lounges.
I remember going to The Five Spot and events like Jazzyfatnastees’ showcase, Black Lily, where local artists like John Legend, Jaguar Wright, and a young Jazmine Sullivan were regularly featured. I was completely blown away by the amazing talent in the city that softened my “New York or nowhere” stance quite a bit. At the time, there was a new sound that was making waves on the airways. Philly artists were leading the way with their unique blends of jazz, funk, spoken word, hip-hop, and classic soul to create Neo-Soul. The genre gifted us Jill Scott, one of the most notable artists to emerge during the height of Neo-Soul’s reign. Her debut album, Who Is Jill Scott? Words And Sounds Vol. 1 changed…
