Musiq Soulchild breathes new life into soul music and is reviving the culture behind it. In between each song’s melody and rhythm lies a lyrical expression that captivates you and leaves you craving more.
At age 23, Taalib Johnson, better known as Musiq, took the world by storm with AIJUSWANASEING, an album that bursts with new sounds and flavor. Still riding high on the success of his debut, he is already beginning work for his next as-yet-untitled album. In future musical ventures, he says that he would like to collaborate with Prince, Michael Jackson, George Clinton, James Brown, and of course, Stevie Wonder.
His name was one of the first things that sparked attention from the music world. Its origin stems from his musical reputation in Philly.
“I was known as that music boy,” said Musiq.
He changed the spelling of music to “musiq,” a compound of “muse” and “I.Q.,” but felt it was a lot to live up to. He later attached “Soulchild,” which represents a child of the ’70s soul era.
Following in the footsteps of his musical inspirations, Donny Hathaway and Stevie Wonder, he didn’t necessarily want to be a performer with flashing lights, shiny suits or huge dance routines, but rather an entertainer. Musiq says he wasn’t into receiving attention.
“I wanted people to have an appreciation of my talent and music,” he said.
Along with music, life and love also inspire him, explaining why his favorite song on AIJUSWANASEING is “Love,” which he co-wrote with friend, Carvin Haggins.
“‘Love’ meant the most. It was the state of mind that I was in,” said Musiq.
While he enjoys his singing career, and whole-heartedly believes his musical path was already planned for him, he also has dreams beyond singing.
“It’s up to me to take it as far as I want to,” said Musiq. “I would like to write, produce and direct independent films. I want to do movies. Not necessarily blockbuster movies, but if that happens, that’s cool, too.”
With his irresistible charm and childish good looks, it shouldn’t be too hard for Musiq to break onto the Hollywood scene. He already has an incredible popularity and ever-growing fan base, which would follow him any and everywhere he decides to go.
He admits, though, that his fame has caused some occasional mishaps.
“In Alabama, some girl ripped my clothes off,” he said, describing the craziest thing a fan has ever done to get close to him.
When he isn’t surrounded by adoring fans, or bombarded with songs at the studio, Musiq does absolutely nothing.
“I sleep or vegetate, but nine times out of 10, I am doing something,” he said.
He feels blessed, honored and grateful to have had a hand in soul music.
“I take it very seriously,” Musiq said. “It’s something worth living for.”
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