Jody Watley is an iconic Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and businesswoman, known worldwide for being one of the forerunners in modern pop, R&B and rap, for her nine chart-topping studio albums and for her role as a style icon.

Born and raised in Illinois, Watley first appeared on stage at just eight years old and made her television debut at fourteen on dance show Soul Train. A breakout star of the show, Watley was invited to join R&B group Shalamar by Don Cornelius. Watley went on to release hit albums and to be nominated for several Grammys with the group. She left the group in 1983 to pursue a solo career, though she rejoined several years later. In the interim Watley focussed on developing her own career, making appearances on several other artist’s tracks, including Bob Geldof’s Do They Know It’s Christmas.

In 1987, Watley released her debut solo studio album, Jody Watley, which included the hit single Looking For a New Love. Soon after, she won Best New Artist at the 1988 Grammy Awards. In the years following, Watley released several chart-topping albums including Larger Than Life, Affection, The Saturday Night Experience and The Makeover, also embarking on several world tours. Watley has been revered not only for her powerful vocals and for changing the game time and time again, but for her visionary fashion style.

Watley is one of the most highly respected recording artists of our times. In 2018, Watley was named one of the Top Female Artists Of All Time by Billboard. Watley has appeared in Vogue, several editions of Billboard, Rolling Stone, Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue Italia, Vanity Fair and People. In recent years, Watley has released a signature line of fragrances, candles and home goods.