R&B duo THEY—comprising Drew Love and Dante Jones—sat down with Nyla Symone on We Need to Talk to discuss their upcoming album, Love Jones. Named after the classic Black romance film, the album is deeply rooted in nostalgia, blending old-school R&B influences with modern storytelling.
The project, inspired by Dante’s Chicago memories and their shared passion for 90s R&B, is a tribute to the genre’s golden era. Featuring textured, impressionist-style artwork that pays homage to Black art, Love Jones captures themes of love, relationships, and personal growth.
The Making of Love Jones
Dante revealed that the album title came from a friend’s suggestion, cleverly tying into their last names. The duo embraced AI-generated samples alongside traditional songwriting to craft standout tracks like Straight Up, Drive-Thru, Gemini, and Can’t Let Go. Among the highlights is Diamonds and Pearls, a fan-favorite that showcases their signature blend of sultry melodies and raw emotion.
R&B, Influences & The Grammys Debate
THEY credit artists like Usher, 112, and Donell Jones for shaping their sound, particularly their love for New Jack Swing and uptempo tracks. The conversation also took a critical turn when discussing the state of R&B and Chris Brown’s Grammy win, sparking debate about the genre’s recognition in mainstream spaces.
Personal Insights & Fun Moments
Beyond music, the duo opened up about their personal lives—sharing their zodiac signs (Dante is a Libra, Drew is a Cancer), their first major purchases with industry checks (Drew splurged on a hot tub, while Dante copped exclusive Jordans), and Drew’s off-stage role as a basketball coach for his kids.
Touring Plans & The Road Ahead
With Love Jones set for release, THEY are gearing up for a tour, with New York City at the top of their priority list. The duo also teased new music videos and upcoming content, emphasizing their excitement for fan reactions to shape their next creative moves.
