Jermaine Dupri once worked with the iconic Janet Jackson.

Jermaine Dupri believes that today’s R&B singers are missing out on crucial lessons that were once taught in church, and that’s why they fall short when compared to the artists of the 1990s. He shared this perspective in a recent Instagram livestream, highlighting how the church environment played a significant role in shaping the soulful sound of past R&B legends.

“The young Black generation today isn’t going to church, and they’re missing out on that experience with the church band,” Dupri explained, referencing the influence of artists like Bryan-Michael Cox and Jodeci. He continued, “When you listen to that soul, the authenticity comes from something deeper. It’s hard to match Jodeci’s level when you don’t have that foundation. Anthony Hamilton, for example, comes from the church. That raw emotion and depth in his voice? You don’t get that from just being online.”

 

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Fans reacted to Dupri’s comments, with many echoing his sentiments. One fan mentioned, “I’m glad my kids are involved in church. It’s helping them grow as singers and musicians.” Another added, “I totally agree! I was just listening to Anthony Hamilton earlier, and that man really sings!”

During the same livestream, Dupri also touched on another controversial topic, saying that R. Kelly is undeniably the “R in R&B.” He clarified, “I’m not here to discuss the controversy surrounding him, but musically, he’s the epitome of R&B. Hands down.”

The state of R&B has been a widely discussed topic recently, with other figures like Diddy, Tank, Aries Spears, and Joe Budden also weighing in on the genre’s evolution and challenges.