Exploring Zhane's Timeless Album "Pronounced Jah-Nay,"
Introduction to Zhane's Timeless Album
Founded In
Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, United States
Members
Jean Baylor
Renée Neufville
Zhané (pronounced Jah-Nay) was an American R&B/hip hop
Zhane, a talented duo from the '90s, created music that still resonates today. Their album, "Pronounced Jah-Nay," stands out as a classic. Many fans and music lovers continue to explore and appreciate its tracks.
90s R&B duo.
The two met while they attended Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA. They came up with the name Zhané as a combination of their first names Jean and Renée with the French accent on Jean and using a “Z” to stand out.
Their unique sound blends R&B with elements of jazz and hip-hop. This combination makes their music both soothing and dynamic. Let's delve into what makes this album timeless.
Having drawn lessons from the rise of hip-hop, early-90s R&B was no longer the flabby, glitzy, brassy razzamadazzle it had been in the mid-80s. Crucial to the paring-down process was the prominence of En Vogue and the unexpected supremacy of Soul II Soul, both of whom created a positive-minded, floor-filling unfussy vibe, albeit in very different ways. US hip-hop producers were ideally placed to understand this new flowering of soul music, since it was made much the same way as rap, deploying breaks and retro grooves to create something new.
Among the best of this new breed of R&B groups were Zhané, protégées of two New Jersey acts, Naughty By Nature and Queen Latifah, and members of their Flavor Unit collective, yet still independent in outlook. While they’re not as well-remembered as En Vogue, for an all-too-brief period across 1993-94 Renée Neufville and Jean Norris (Zhané is a mock Francophone contraction of their first names) were really saying something, as their debut album, Pronounced Jah-Nay, proves.
Like Pronounced Jah-Nay itself, let’s kick off with the big hit, “Hey Mr. DJ,” a tune that puts the swing into things, thanks to a handy piano sample snipped from Michael Wycoff’s 1982 club groover “Looking Up To You.” The girls sing beautifully here, but some of the credit is due to Naughty By Nature’s Kay Gee in the production suite, who gets Fam of Rottin Razcals to kick up a rumpus with a rabble-rousing rhyme or two to prevent things getting too languid. Busting out of jeeps across the late summer/early autumn of ’93, the record was a Top 10 US smash.
Listeners can appreciate the seamless blend of instruments and vocals. The production enhances the overall listening experience. This quality helps the album stand the test of time.
Influence on Modern Music
Zhane's music has influenced many contemporary artists. Their style and sound can be heard in today's R&B and hip-hop tracks. This influence highlights the duo's lasting impact on the music industry.
Modern artists often sample or reference Zhane's work. This practice keeps their music alive and introduces it to new audiences. Fans of all ages can enjoy the timeless quality of their tracks.
Legacy of for other female artists.
Their influence is seen in the confidence and style of today's performers. Zhane's music and achievements continue to inspire new generations.
One album later,
That was it for Zhané, who parted to pursue solo careers – no surprise when you see who wrote what here: they both composed most of the material, but separately, with Renée Neufville taking the lioness’ share of the credits, though Norris still chipped in with a few gems. R&B moved swiftly on, but Pronounced Jah-Nay, originally released on February 15, 1994, and now given a 2LP reissue, now benefits from a luminous, nostalgic sheen. Say it any way you like, but do say it loud: they still sound just fine.
Conclusion
Exploring Zhane's timeless album is a journey through music history. "Pronounced Jah-Nay" remains a beloved classic. Its unique sound, high production quality, and lasting influence make it a must-listen.
For those who haven't experienced this album, now is the perfect time. Dive into the tracks and discover why Zhane's music continues to captivate audiences.
Track Listing
The album “Pronounced Jah-Nay” by Zhané, released on February 15, 1994, includes the following tracks12:
Hey Mr. D.J.
Intro (Interlude)
Vibe
Sending My Love
Sweet Taste of Love
Changes
You’re Sorry Now
Love Me Today
Off My Mind
La, La, La
Groove Thang
For a Reason
Hey Mr. D.J. (Remix)
Do you have a favorite track from this album?