In Episode 138 of the R&B Money Podcast, Tank and J. Valentine sit down with Jabari Johnson, the visionary founder of R&B Only, to explore the meteoric rise of his groundbreaking live music platform. From its modest beginnings to a thriving global phenomenon, Johnson’s journey offers a blueprint for entrepreneurial success and cultural impact.
Johnson’s journey began with hip-hop parties, where the last hour was reserved for R&B tracks—a decision that captivated female attendees. Spotting the untapped potential, he created R&B Only, an event that blends concert and party elements. “It was about storytelling through music,” he explains, focusing on emotional connection and audience interaction.
Starting with venues that held just 150-200 people, Johnson used innovative strategies like free RSVPs to drive attendance. His meticulous approach to analyzing ticket sales and market dynamics helped scale R&B Only to iconic venues like the Palladium. Today, the brand tours over 55 cities across North America and is eyeing expansion into the UK.
Curating DJ playlists with a mix of old-school hits, current bangers, and emerging artists, R&B Only has become a hub for innovation. Johnson also made a pivotal decision to hire only women DJs after noticing that 70% of his audience was female, adding a personal and empowering touch to the shows.
A turning point came when Johnson invested $80-100K in LED screens after attending an industry conference in China. Owning his equipment—including LED screens, special effects, and trucks—allowed him to eliminate rental expenses, significantly boosting profit margins. His operation now includes a Nashville warehouse and supports 80-100 shows annually.
Johnson emphasizes the importance of artist development, criticizing the industry’s reliance on algorithms and one-hit wonders. To support new talent, R&B Only is planning a compilation album featuring both legendary and emerging artists. “We need gatekeepers who care about the genre,” Johnson insists, highlighting the role of curated festivals and podcasts in fostering growth.
Johnson also shared his personal favorites, from Usher and SZA to the Isley Brothers’ timeless “Between the Sheets.” Reflecting on challenges, he recounted an “I Ain’t Saying No Names” moment involving a headliner who overstayed their set, emphasizing the importance of professionalism and collaboration.
With plans for international tours and a deeper focus on community-building, R&B Only is poised to remain a vital force in the R&B genre. “This is more than music—it’s about creating spaces where people feel seen and heard,” Johnson concludes.
