If you missed the Soul Train Awards 2023 on BET, you missed a spectacular celebration of R&B and soul music, highlighted by a boss-like performance by seasoned singer and songwriter BJ the Chicago Kid.
The Chicago native owned the audience the moment he opened his set at the awards ceremony with a slow and soulful rendition. He sang, “Time is tickin’, baby, take a load off, I’ll take the weight up off your shoulders, wake up to lovin’ in the morning, if you spend the night with me.”
To the surprise of the audience, Coco made her way to the stage for the second time to join him. The chemistry between the two performers was palpable as they engaged in a dynamic exchange, riffing back and forth on a stage suspended over a glistening pool. Their high-energy performance brought the audience to their feet, creating a lively atmosphere as attendees grooved to the upbeat dance track.
Unforgettable night. Unforgettable performance.
Bryan Sledge was born to church choir directors in Chicago, Illinois, and grew up in the Brainerd neighborhood on Chicago’s South Side. His journey into the music world was sparked by witnessing Janet Jackson’s performance on tour. At 19, he relocated to Los Angeles, California, where he began his music career as a backup singer for the gospel duo Mary Mary and contributed to Stevie Wonder’s A Time to Love (2005).
Sledge extended his talents to songwriting for R&B and gospel artists such as Crystal Aikin, Shirley Caesar, Lalah Hathaway, Joe, and Kindred the Family Soul. He gained visibility by performing on Kanye West’s single Impossible, featuring Twista and Keyshia Cole.
In 2009, BJ the Chicago Kid released his debut mixtape, A Taste of Chicago, followed by The New Beginning later that year. In 2011, he dropped his third mixtape, The Life of Love’s Cupid.
February 2012 marked the independent release of his debut studio album, Pineapple Now-Laters. Subsequently, he signed a record deal with Motown in August 2012. Sledge continued to release tracks like Honey and collaborated with Schoolboy Q on Studio, a single that earned Billboard chart placement.
His major label debut album, In My Mind, was released on February 19, 2016. Later, in 2019, he released his third studio album, 1123, showcasing his versatility and continued growth as an artist.
Let’s get to know more about this talented artist with these five interesting facts:
1. Surrounded by Music from a Young Age
BJ grew up immersed in gospel music, fostering his love for singing at a young age. He honed his skills by performing in church choirs, laying the foundation for his future in the music industry.
2. Influence of His Father on Songwriting
BJ credits his father for helping him understand songwriting, particularly through exposure to Babyface’s music. His father’s love for Babyface’s work unknowingly contributed significantly to BJ’s development as a songwriter.
3. Independent Debut Project
In 2012, BJ independently released his debut studio album, Pineapple Now-Laters. The album, blending R&B, soul, and gospel influences, received positive reviews and showcased his versatility as an artist.
4. Socially Conscious Music
Beyond creating melodic tunes, BJ The Chicago Kid uses his music as a platform to address social issues. His lyrics often explore themes such as love, life struggles, and societal challenges, reflecting a commitment to meaningful storytelling.
5. Musical Recognitions
BJ The Chicago Kid’s artistic prowess has garnered recognition, with multiple Grammy nominations to his name. Nods for Best R&B Performance and Best Traditional R&B Performance underscore his impact and contribution to the music industry.
If you missed his captivating performance at the Soul Train Awards 2023, these facts provide a glimpse into the multifaceted talent of BJ The Chicago Kid.
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