In a recent appearance on the R&B Money podcast with Tank and J Valentine, Grammy-winning artist and entrepreneur Melanie Fiona took a deep dive into her musical influences and personal favorites. Known for her powerful vocals and unique blend of R&B and soul, Fiona shared how her early exposure to the genre shaped her as both a singer and an artist.
Fiona’s top five R&B singers serve as a tribute to the genre’s most iconic voices, all of whom played pivotal roles in influencing her career. Her list includes:
- Stevie Wonder
- Sam Cooke
- Musiq Soulchild
- Whitney Houston
- Lauryn Hill
However, Fiona doesn’t stop at just five. She adds Brandy to the mix, hailing the vocal powerhouse as an artist with “extraordinary ability.” Fiona’s admiration for Brandy’s ability to transcend musical genres underscores her deep respect for the R&B legend.
The conversation took a personal turn when the hosts asked Fiona about her top five R&B songs. Her selections are a blend of classic soul and modern R&B:
- “A Song for You” by Donnie Hathaway
- “Overjoyed” by Stevie Wonder
- “When You Touch Me” by Brandy
- “Killing Me Softly” by Lauryn Hill
- “Sweet Love” by Anita Baker
Throughout the conversation, Melanie’s deep emotional connection to these songs and artists is clear, highlighting the role music has played in shaping her life and career. Tank & J Valentine celebrated her choices, concluding that each pick represents timeless artistry and powerful vocal performance.
