GUY

Guy is the definitive architect of New Jack Swing, a subgenre that fused the rhythmic sensibilities of hip-hop with the melodic traditions of soul and funk. Formed in Harlem in 1987, the group was the primary vehicle for Teddy Riley, arguably the most influential producer of the late 80s and early 90s.

Riley's use of the Akai MPC and various synthesizers created a 'swing' feel that corrected the stiff quantization of early electronic R&B. Lead singer Aaron Hall provided a bridge to the past with a vocal style heavily indebted to Charlie Wilson of The Gap Band, yet his aggressive delivery was perfectly suited for the harder, hip-hop-influenced beats. The group's influence is vast; Aaron Hall's vocal tics became the template for R. Kelly and Jodeci, while Riley's production style paved the way for Michael Jackson's 'Dangerous' era. Despite a relatively small discography due to internal tensions and Riley's demand as a producer for others, Guy remains the gold standard for the era's urban contemporary sound.