Boyz II Men’s Shawn Stockman Goes On Twitter To Explain How R&B Has ‘Lost Itself’
Shawn Stockman of the legendary group Boyz II Men is providing his thoughts on the state of R&B music today and some of the headlining artists of the genre.
Taking to Twitter, the 49-year-old relayed how he believes singers in 2022 are more concerned with competing “with the bravado of the hip hop world” rather than taking the time to perfect their craft by “investing in their vocal performances (or not having very strong ones).”
In a series of tweets, Stockman began by claiming there was a time when there was a “clear distinction between a rapper and a singer, persona wise.” He wrote, “R&B has lost their identity because it felt like it had to compete with the bravado of the hip hop world. Because labels stopped supporting the perception of Black men being more than displaying a ‘thug image.'”
“Let me disclaim, my tweets are not to say there aren’t any great singers out there,” Stockman added. “There always have been great singers, but the love they get is disproportionate. So let’s do this: send me some artists y’all think are and I’ll repost! I’ll go first.”
He concluded by expressing his gratitude for those who understand where he’s coming from writing, “Thanks to those who understand my comments concerning R&B is out of pure concern for the culture I gave my life to,” Stockman tweeted. “It’s not about dissing anyone, it’s not about excluding those who rep the right way. Just bringing 2 light that the love 4 the real is disproportionate.”
Fans of the Boyz II Men star believe that his comments may be in reaction to the recent Verzuz battle between Omarion and Mario, which featured other performances by Ray J, Bobby Valentino, Sammie, and Pleasure P. After the battle, many speculated over the vocal talent of some of the performers who took the stage that night. We’ll let you draw your own conclusion on who those individuals might be.
