Donell Jones, Left Eye

Biography

Donell Jones (born May 22, 1973, in Chicago, Illinois) is an acclaimed American R&B singer, songwriter, and producer, celebrated for his smooth vocal style and heartfelt songwriting. Raised in a musically rich yet challenging environment on Chicago's South Side, Jones began writing songs at age 12 and sang with the group Porscha as a teenager. His early exposure to both East and West Coast music scenes influenced his versatile sound, blending classic R&B with elements of neo soul and quiet storm. After leaving street life behind, Jones focused on music, eventually catching the attention of producer Eddie F, who helped him secure a deal with LaFace Records.

Jones's debut album, 'My Heart' (1996), marked his entry into the industry, but it was his sophomore release, 'Where I Wanna Be' (1999), that established him as a leading R&B artist. The album featured the global hit 'U Know What's Up,' which included a remix with Lisa 'Left Eye' Lopes of TLC, and solidified his reputation for crafting relatable, emotionally resonant songs. Over the years, Jones has released several successful albums, including 'Life Goes On' (2002) and 'Journey of a Gemini' (2006), and has written for major artists such as Usher and 702. His legacy is defined by his consistent chart presence, platinum records, and influence on the evolution of contemporary R&B.

Lisa 'Left Eye' Lopes (May 27, 1971 – April 25, 2002) was an iconic American rapper, singer, and songwriter, best known as a member of the groundbreaking girl group TLC. Renowned for her distinctive rap style and creative vision, Lopes contributed significantly to TLC's success throughout the 1990s. Her collaboration with Donell Jones on 'U Know What's Up' remains a highlight of both artists' careers, bridging the worlds of hip-hop and R&B and showcasing her enduring impact on the genre.

Fun Facts

• Donell Jones wrote vocal arrangements for Madonna’s 'Bedtime Stories' album in 1994.
• He survived a dangerous period of gang involvement in his youth before dedicating himself fully to music.
• Jones and Left Eye did not record 'U Know What's Up' together in the studio; Lopes recorded her part separately.
• Donell Jones won the American Music Award for Favorite Soul/R&B New Artist in 2000.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Eddie F (Edward Ferrell) - Producer and executive who discovered Jones and helped launch his career (Secured Jones's signing to LaFace Records, produced on 'My Heart') [mid-1990s]
• Babyface - Influence on Jones's songwriting and production style (LaFace Records roster, stylistic inspiration) [1990s]

Key Collaborators

• Lisa 'Left Eye' Lopes - Featured rapper on the hit single 'U Know What's Up' (remix) ('U Know What's Up' remix (1999)) [1999]
• Usher - Jones wrote and produced songs for Usher ('Think of You' (1995)) [mid-1990s]
• 702 - Jones wrote songs for the group ('Get It Together') [1990s]
• Styles P. - Featured artist on Jones's song ('Put Me Down' from 'Life Goes On' (2002)) [2002]

Artists Influenced

• Contemporary R&B artists - Jones's melodic style and songwriting have influenced a new generation of R&B singers (General influence on late 2000s and 2010s R&B) [2000s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. U Know What's Up (feat. Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes) (Where I Wanna Be)
2. Where I Wanna Be (Where I Wanna Be)
3. This Luv (Where I Wanna Be)
4. Knocks Me Off My Feet (My Heart)
5. Shorty (Got Her Eyes on Me) (Where I Wanna Be)
6. You Know That I Love You (Life Goes On)
7. Have You Seen Her (Where I Wanna Be)
8. U Know What's Up (Where I Wanna Be)
9. I Hope It's You (Life Goes On)
10. Do U Wanna (Life Goes On)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia