Next member RL, who is responsible for a string of hits in the 90s including “Too Close” and “Wifey,” recently opened up to Singersroom about a series of topics; professional and personal. Currently recording a new album entitled ‘Music 101’ with his group and production company Minnesota Nights, RL says their taking their time to “do it right,” instead of conforming to what’s out there now.
“We have been gone so long so we want to make sure we do it right,” RL told Singersroom. “A lot of artists are coming out with material that is beneath them because they are trying to be successful. They are working with the hottest producers of today but it is not the right producers for them. Their core audience doesn’t want that! They forget that good music doesn’t die. So we see a lot of our peers with material that is beneath them just to get on the radio. It’s like Dr. Jay coming to the gym with Jordans on. No he’s wearing Converse!”
RL goes on to advise new artists not to believe the hype, adding: “A lot of artists are following the radio and artists that they think are popular are not selling like you think they are. A lot of artists that are popular are not paid. I’m still eating off records from over a decade ago. What happens when what you talk about fades now? New artists need to think about tomorrow. What happens when the S500 and being in VIP changes?”
RL’s advice for new acts is coming from a good place. Before the fame and notoriety, he also had is struggles growing up in Minnesota but insist the artists he looked up to was his source of strength.
“The reason it’s called ‘Minnesota Nights’ is because I contemplated suicide when I was younger,” says RL. “When I was little I would listen to After 7, Jodeci, Baby Face and God would tell me to hold up. That’s what Minnesota Nights remind me of, those rough times. Whenever I get down I remember those Minnesota nights.”
The platinum entertainer does have some regrets though. Blowing a marriage, a record deal with Jive and better business ethics are some of the things he wishes he could rewind and change.
“I would rewind to my marriage. I would rewind to my boy and her cheating. I was so damaged and jaded by the industry. I got divorced and everything I wrote or sang was about me being hurt,” he says. “A woman can fall in love as many times as she wants but a man falls in love like two or three times. I would rewind and change the people around me and handle my business a little differently. I would have been smarter on who I keep close. I kept some people away that should have been closer. I would have handled it a lot better. I was damaged so I needed a break; it’s not like I came out with garbage when I took that break. I Wish I could of did it all over all together because I had a deal with Clive with $450,000 on the table. I didn’t know how to handle it.”
RL, a talented R&B artist who has been making waves in the industry for years, is ready to break his silence on what’s been going on behind the scenes. In an exclusive interview with us, RL opened up about his failed marriage, suicidal thoughts and why artists conform. With raw honesty and emotion, RL shared his story of resilience and strength in the face of adversity.
This inspiring tale proves that no matter how hard things get you can always come out stronger if you’re willing to fight for yourself. Through our conversation, we discovered how he was able to overcome life-altering experiences and rebuild himself into a better version of himself. We invite you to join us as we explore this powerful journey together.
Prepare to be inspired by RL’s story as he reveals what it took for him to reclaim control over his life after enduring heartbreak and depression. He will share valuable lessons learned along the way that could help any individual take back their power and find true happiness again.
Rl’s Story
RL, one of the members of the influential hip-hop group Next Member, has recently opened up about his troubled past. In a candid and revealing interview, RL shared with us his struggles during his failed marriage and how those experiences have shaped him as an artist today.
During this time, RL said he felt isolated from family and friends and even had suicidal thoughts at times. He spoke about how it was difficult to find solace in music when so many artists were conforming to industry standards. It seemed almost impossible for RL to express himself authentically without being judged or criticized by others.
At points throughout this period in his life, RL found great comfort in knowing that there are people who understand what he is going through and can relate to his story. Through connecting with these individuals, he’s been able to stay motivated despite all the adversity he’s faced. This type of connection has allowed him to continue writing meaningful songs that reflect both the pain and joys of life.
The Pressure Of Conformity
RL’s story is a testament to the pressure of conformity in today’s music industry. He has spoken about how he was often made to feel like his musical expression had to fit into an existing mold, rather than allowing him to be truly creative and unique. It can be difficult for artists trying to make their mark in the industry while staying true to themselves at the same time.
The need for musicians to adhere to certain rules or expectations of what a song should sound like can lead them down a dangerous path. They may begin compromising on their own beliefs and principles just so they can get the attention of record labels or fans. This kind of situation goes against everything that RL stands for as an artist; instead he believes that everyone should have free range when it comes to expressing themselves musically.
In spite of this challenge, RL remains hopeful that more people will eventually come around and embrace individuality in music. With more support from listeners who value authenticity over manufactured trends, artists like RL will continue creating powerful works that speak directly from the heart without having to compromise on their artistry.
Conclusion
In the end, RL’s story is one of perseverance and resilience. Despite feeling pressure to conform, he managed to put his mental health first and survive a difficult period in his life. He was able to make it through with the help of family, friends, and music.
RL has come out on top despite all the challenges he faced—from failed relationships to suicidal thoughts. He turned his struggles into strengths and now stands tall as an artist who refuses to settle for anything but authenticity. His journey shows us that we should never give up hope in our darkest moments because brighter days are ahead.
No matter what cards you’re dealt, you can always find your way back if you stay focused on yourself and trust your own unique voice. And although sometimes conforming may seem like the easier route, staying true to yourself will pay off in the long run – just ask RL!
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