Johnny Gill Talks 'Game Changer' Success, Bobby Brown, Jamie Foxx & New Edition Biopic

New Edition Biopic, Minus Bobby Brown's Involvement, Coming to BET

You’ve been described as having a “Midas touch” when it comes to sensuous R&B. Do you agree?

It’s a great compliment. But I don’t know if I look at it like that. For me, it’s the Midas level of hard work, passion and belief that I put into this. It refuels me to know that after 32 years, I can still be in the game, in the mix and doing what I’ve enjoyed doing all of my life.

How did you derive your label’s name, J Skillz?

That’s me. Because I play a bunch of different instruments [including guitar, bass and drums], I’ve always been called Skillz. I thought, “Hey, it’s got a ring to it.” So that’s what I named my company.

What’s been your hardest-won lesson?

Learning how to not be dependent. I sat out for 15 years not recording because I was looking for a record deal. Then you start questioning your confidence. I woke up one day and decided why am I sitting here waiting for somebody to do something for me? My talent hasn’t eroded. Then [Notifi founder] Ira DeWitt said I needed to put out new music [starting with 2011’s Still Winning]. And Jamie Foxx told me there’s a void and you can fill it. “You’re the last dying breed of crooners,” he said. “My studio is open any time you want to come.” I’m like OK … maybe I was missed.

Jill Scott, Babyface, Tyrese & New Edition to Headline 2015 Holiday Jam 

Your indie success and that of Tyrese, Lalah Hathaway, Charlie Wilson and newcomers like KING and Kehlani? What impact is that having on the genre?

There’s a resurgence of great established and new R&B artists and songs happening. It’s just a matter of us coming together to keep pushing the boundaries; to be respected and get back to a place where people will listen and understand that R&B should not be at the bottom of the totem pole.

When can fans expect the New Edition biopic the group is co-producing for BET?

We were supposed to start shooting between February and March. But we still have more to do in refining the script, and we’re casting right now. Then we’re ready to load up, aiming to release it at the top of 2017.  It’s weird but so exciting. We’ve been trying to get this done for I can’t tell you how many years. And finally it’s here.