Jon B has recently found himself in hot water after making controversial remarks about Gunna and Chlöe Bailey’s sampling of his classic hit “They Don’t Know.” During an appearance on the “Can We Talk R&B?” podcast, the R&B singer expressed his discontent with their 2022 collaboration, “you & me,” calling it “ratchet” and stating, “I couldn’t stand it. I wish they never did it.”
Jon B, who is known for his smooth vocals and romantic ballads, has been a significant figure in the R&B genre since the late ’90s. His song “They Don’t Know” has been sampled numerous times over the years, and he acknowledged that it is often used by various artists. However, his comments about Gunna and Chlöe’s version have sparked a backlash, particularly due to the racial dynamics involved.
In his critique, Jon B claimed that the sample was not cleared, which raised questions about the legality of its use. He stated, “Gunna, we gotta holla about that. That’s some business s**t we gotta handle.” While he later attempted to soften his comments by saying that being sampled is a “compliment,” many listeners were not satisfied with his initial remarks.
The backlash on social media was swift. Many users took issue with a white artist labeling two Black artists’ work as “ratchet.” One user tweeted, “A white man calling two black ppl ratchet is crazy,” highlighting the sensitivity surrounding cultural appropriation and the language used by artists in discussions about their peers.
Others echoed similar sentiments, expressing disappointment in Jon B’s choice of words. Singer-songwriter Isadore Noir commented, “I 100% understand him not being happy about sample clearance, but issue a copyright strike or cease & desist or [whatever] you have to do but the scorn and way he’s talking about two young black artists is incredibly disappointing.” This sentiment reflects a broader concern about how established artists engage with newer talent, especially across racial lines.
Some fans defended Jon B, arguing that he had every right to express his feelings about the sampling. One supporter stated, “Jon B ain’t said nothing wrong,” suggesting that the criticism he faced was unwarranted. They pointed out that the lack of sample rights and the perceived quality of the new version were valid concerns for any artist.
The conversation around Jon B’s comments also touched on the broader issue of how music sampling is handled in the industry. While sampling can be a way to pay homage to previous works, it can also lead to disputes over ownership and artistic integrity. Jon B’s situation raises questions about the responsibilities of artists when using samples, particularly when it comes to seeking permission and respecting the original creators.
As the debate continues, it remains unclear whether Jon B owns the rights to his masters. However, reports indicate that the sample was cleared by Sony Music, which complicates the narrative surrounding his comments. The situation serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in the music industry, especially regarding race, ownership, and artistic expression.
In the wake of the controversy, Jon B has yet to issue a formal response to the backlash. The incident has sparked a larger conversation about the dynamics of sampling in music and the importance of respectful dialogue among artists. As the music industry evolves, it will be crucial for artists to navigate these conversations with care, ensuring that they honor the contributions of those who came before them while also fostering a spirit of collaboration and respect.
The discourse surrounding Jon B’s remarks highlights the ongoing challenges artists face in addressing issues of cultural appropriation and respect within the music community. As fans and artists alike continue to engage in this conversation, it will be interesting to see how it shapes the future of music sampling and collaboration.
Source: Various sources
