Musiq Soulchild, born Taalib Johnson, is an American R&B singer and songwriter known for his unique style of “urban acoustic soul” music. He first rose to prominence in 2000 with his debut album, Aijuswanaseing, which included the hit singles “Just Friends (Sunny)” and “Love.” Musiq took a brief hiatus in the late 2000s but returned in 2011 with his album MusiqInTheMagiq. So what is Musiq Soulchild up to now in 2023?
Recent Music Releases
Though it’s been over a decade since his last mainstream hit, Musiq continues to release new music for his dedicated fanbase. In May 2022, he dropped his latest album, ‘Pieces of Me’, led by the smooth single “days ago.” The 13-track project shows Musiq staying true to his trademark soulful sound, with laidback beats and heartfelt lyrics. Reviews praised the album’s cohesiveness and said it contained some of Musiq’s strongest songs in years.
Prior to Pieces of Me, Musiq released the album Feel the Real in 2017. It arrived after a five-year break between studio albums, though Musiq issued the Christmas EP Winter Nights in 2015. Feel the Real gave fans 10 new tracks of Musiq’s signature mellow style and depth. Singles included “Simple Things” and “Start Over.”
In 2018, Musiq collaborated with jazz pianist Robert Glasper on the song “I Do.” The following year, he appeared on the track “Wake Up Everybody” by Goapele, singing alongside Erykah Badu, Kokayi, and King. Though he hasn’t matched his early-career success, Musiq continues dropping smooth R&B for his dedicated listeners.
Performing Live
In addition to recording new music, Musiq Soulchild stays busy by performing live concerts. He tours the US and abroad most years, bringing his catalog of hits and new songs to stages in intimate venues. Fans can expect to hear Musiq deliver raw vocal talent and engage the crowd during his shows.
Some recent and upcoming performances for Musiq include:
- Essence Festival in New Orleans – July 2022
- Savoystage Festival in Washington DC – August 2022
- The Apollo Theater in New York City – November 2022
- Basement East in Nashville – January 2023
- House of Blues in Chicago – April 2023
Musiq manages his own bookings, allowing him flexibility with touring schedules. Expect him to continue playing live shows to connect with longtime listeners and introduce his music to new audiences.
Philanthropy & Business Endeavors
In addition to his music career, Musiq Soulchild dedicates time to philanthropic causes and entrepreneurial business ventures.
He has supported charities like the American Diabetes Association and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Musiq also founded the Musiq Soulchild Scholarship Fund in 2006, which grants scholarships to creative high school students.
On the business side, Musiq has invested in real estate and co-owns a vegan soul food restaurant in Atlanta named Souley Vegan. He also recently launched a podcast called Drink Champs that features interviews with hip hop and R&B artists.
Musiq balances his creative passions with efforts to give back and build businesses. His philanthropic and entrepreneurial endeavors reveal his commitment to making a positive impact beyond music.
Personal Life
Though Musiq Soulchild keeps a relatively low profile, some details have emerged about his personal life in recent years.
He has been in a long-term relationship with his girlfriend Ashley Aisha Moon since around 2016. The couple has two young children together – a son named Zaakir born in 2017, and a daughter Asiya born in 2020.
Musiq also has three older children from previous relationships – 15-year-old Amira, and two adults sons, TaRaan and TaQuoia.
When not making music, Musiq enjoys spending time with family, cooking, traveling, and rooting for his hometown Philadelphia Eagles NFL team. He has described himself as spiritual but not religious.
While passionate about his music career, Musiq makes sure to prioritize time for his growing family. Balancing work, philanthropy, and fatherhood keeps him busy post-mainstream success.
Legacy & Influence
Though he doesn’t dominate the charts like his early 2000s heyday, Musiq Soulchild retains a strong legacy and influence within contemporary R&B.
He has released eight studio albums that blend hip hop and soul in creative ways. Singles like “Love,” “Halfcrazy,” and “Who Knows” exhibit his fluid vocals and gift for writing relatable romantic songs.
Musiq has earned one platinum and two gold records from the RIAA. He has received four Grammy nominations, including Best R&B Album for 2007’s Luvanmusiq.
While his catalog and accolades cement his legacy, Musiq has also influenced today’s R&B landscape. Artists like PARTYNEXTDOOR, Jeremih, and Bryson Tiller exhibit his smooth, downtempo style mixed with hip hop beats. His unique “urban acoustic soul” sound spawned many followers.
Additionally, Musiq has written and produced for other artists. He co-wrote the Diddy hit “Shake Ya Tailfeather” and produced tracks for rappers Fabolous and The Game. Musiq’s work behind the mic keeps his sound relevant.
Conclusion
Though his smash hit albums are behind him, Musiq Soulchild continues making music, performing live, giving back, and being a family man. While he may never recapture the magic of songs like “Love” and “Halfcrazy,” Musiq remains dedicated to his craft and fans. He drops smooth R&B periodically, tours theaters and clubs, and runs business ventures when not focused on philanthropy and fatherhood.
Musiq’s influence is also evidenced by the crop of neo-soul artists he inspired. His unique style helped pave the way for today’s brand of mellowed-out hip hop soul. Though no longer dominating the charts, Musiq Soulchild retains a strong legacy and keeps making music on his own terms.
