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Bilal began to familiarize himself with the music scene in New York City, meeting big talents such as [[Common (rapper)|Common]], [[The Roots]], and [[Erykah Badu]]. Eventually, he was discovered by Aaron Comess from the [[Spin Doctors]] during an after-school jam session. It was with him that Bilal recorded his demo that landed him a record deal with Interscope.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ontheroxentertainment.com/index.php?option=com_zoo&task=item&item_id=634&category_id=15&Itemid=97 |title=Bilal |publisher=Ontheroxentertainment.com |date= |accessdate=29 March 2012}}</ref>
Bilal began to familiarize himself with the music scene in New York City, meeting big talents such as [[Common (rapper)|Common]], [[The Roots]], and [[Erykah Badu]]. Eventually, he was discovered by Aaron Comess from the [[Spin Doctors]] during an after-school jam session. It was with him that Bilal recorded his demo that landed him a record deal with Interscope.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ontheroxentertainment.com/index.php?option=com_zoo&task=item&item_id=634&category_id=15&Itemid=97 |title=Bilal |publisher=Ontheroxentertainment.com |date= |accessdate=29 March 2012}}</ref>
In 2001, he released his debut album ''[[1st Born Second]]'', which featured contributions from the [[Soulquarians]] as well as high-profile producers such as [[Dr. Dre]] and [[J Dilla]].<ref>[http://www.nydailynews.com/archives/entertainment/2001/06/24/2001-06-24 ]{{dead link|date=March 2013}}</ref>
In 2001, he released his debut album ''[[1st Born Second]]'', which featured contributions from the [[Soulquarians]] as well as high-profile producers such as [[Dr. Dre]] and [[J Dilla]].<ref>[http://www.nydailynews.com/archives/entertainment/2001/06/24/2001-06-24 ]{{dead link|date=March 2013}}</ref>
The album peaked at number 31 on the U.S. [[Billboard 200|''Billboard'' 200]] chart, and it has sold 319,000 copies.<ref>Herrera, Monica. [http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/267153/bilal-to-release-electro-jazz-rock-album-in-2010 Bilal To Release Electro-Jazz Rock Album In 2010]. ''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]''. Retrieved on 2010-01-03.</ref> ''1st Born Second'' received universal acclaim from music critics; and holds a score of 82 out of 100 at [[Metacritic]].<ref name="Meta">[http://www.metacritic.com/music/artists/bilal/1stbornsecond ''1st Born Second'' (2001): Reviews]. [[Metacritic]]. Retrieved on 2009-08-12. [http://www.webcitation.org/5j5HOteVd?url=http://www.metacritic.com/music/artists/bilal/1stbornsecond Archived] 2009-08-16.</ref> The album earned rave reviews from publications, including ''[[The Village Voice]]'', ''[[Chicago Sun-Times]]'', and ''[[USA Today]]'',<ref name="Sun">Columnist. "[https://www.google.com/archivesearch?as_q=Bilal&num=10&hl=en&btnG=Search+Archives&as_epq=1st+born+second&as_oq=&as_eq=&as_user_ldate=8%2F2001&as_user_hdate=8%2F2001&lr=&as_src=Chicago+Sun-Times&as_price=p0&as_scoring=a Review: ''1st Born Second'']". ''[[Chicago Sun-Times]]'': August 12, 2001. Archived from [http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P2-4610576.html the original] on 2009-08-12. (Transcription of original review at [[Talk:1st Born Second#Chicago Sun-Times|talk page]])</ref><ref name="Jones">Jones, Steve. "[https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/USAToday/access/76718889.html?dids=76718889:76718889&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Jul+31%2C+2001&author=Steve+Jones%3B+Elysa+Gardner%3B+Brian+Mansfield&pub=USA+TODAY&desc=Bilal%2C+Blu+and+tasty+Cake%2C+too!&pqatl=google Review: ''1st Born Second'']". ''[[USA Today]]'': D.08. July 31, 2001.</ref><ref name="Cepeda">Cepeda, Raquel. [http://www.villagevoice.com/2001-08-07/music/vagina-monologues/ Review: ''1st Born Second'']. ''[[The Village Voice]]''. Retrieved on 2009-08-12.</ref> and it also received comparisons to the music of [[Marvin Gaye]], [[Stevie Wonder]], [[Sly & the Family Stone]], [[Prince (musician)|Prince]], and [[Curtis Mayfield]].<ref name="Meta"/><ref name="Independent">Columnist. [http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/reviews/album-bilal-678301.html Review: ''1st Born Second'']. ''[[The Independent]]''. Retrieved on 2009-08-12.</ref><ref name="Muze">[http://www.webcitation.org/5sB2l4H8y?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cduniverse.com%2Fsearch%2Fxx%2Fmusic%2Fpid%2F1604738%2Fa%2F1st%2BBorn%2BSecond.htm Product Page: ''1st Born Second'']. [[Muze]]. Retrieved on 2009-08-26.</ref><ref name="Caramanica">Caramanica, Jon. [http://www.blender.com/guide/new/50824/1st-born-second.html Review: ''1st Born Second'']{{dead link|date=December 2016 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}. ''[[Blender (magazine)|Blender]]''. Retrieved on 2010-03-29.</ref>
The album peaked at number 31 on the U.S. [[Billboard 200|''Billboard'' 200]] chart, and it has sold 319,000 copies.<ref>Herrera, Monica. [http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/267153/bilal-to-release-electro-jazz-rock-album-in-2010 Bilal To Release Electro-Jazz Rock Album In 2010]. ''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]''. Retrieved on 2010-01-03.</ref> ''1st Born Second'' received universal acclaim from music critics; and holds a score of 82 out of 100 at [[Metacritic]].<ref name="Meta">[http://www.metacritic.com/music/artists/bilal/1stbornsecond ''1st Born Second'' (2001): Reviews]. [[Metacritic]]. Retrieved on 2009-08-12. [http://www.webcitation.org/5j5HOteVd?url=http://www.metacritic.com/music/artists/bilal/1stbornsecond Archived] 2009-08-16.</ref> The album earned rave reviews from publications, including ''[[The Village Voice]]'', ''[[Chicago Sun-Times]]'', and ''[[USA Today]]'',<ref name="Sun">Columnist. "[https://www.google.com/archivesearch?as_q=Bilal&num=10&hl=en&btnG=Search+Archives&as_epq=1st+born+second&as_oq=&as_eq=&as_user_ldate=8%2F2001&as_user_hdate=8%2F2001&lr=&as_src=Chicago+Sun-Times&as_price=p0&as_scoring=a Review: ''1st Born Second'']". ''[[Chicago Sun-Times]]'': August 12, 2001. Archived from [http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P2-4610576.html the original] on 2009-08-12. (Transcription of original review at [[Talk:1st Born Second#Chicago Sun-Times|talk page]])</ref><ref name="Jones">Jones, Steve. "[https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/USAToday/access/76718889.html?dids=76718889:76718889&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Jul+31%2C+2001&author=Steve+Jones%3B+Elysa+Gardner%3B+Brian+Mansfield&pub=USA+TODAY&desc=Bilal%2C+Blu+and+tasty+Cake%2C+too!&pqatl=google Review: ''1st Born Second'']". ''[[USA Today]]'': D.08. July 31, 2001.</ref><ref name="Cepeda">Cepeda, Raquel. [http://www.villagevoice.com/2001-08-07/music/vagina-monologues/ Review: ''1st Born Second'']. ''[[The Village Voice]]''. Retrieved on 2009-08-12.</ref> and it also received comparisons to the music of [[Marvin Gaye]], [[Stevie Wonder]], [[Sly & the Family Stone]], [[Prince (musician)|Prince]], and [[Curtis Mayfield]].<ref name="Meta"/><ref name="Independent">Columnist. [http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/reviews/album-bilal-678301.html Review: ''1st Born Second'']. ''[[The Independent]]''. Retrieved on 2009-08-12.</ref><ref name="Muze">[http://www.webcitation.org/5sB2l4H8y?url=http://www.cduniverse.com/search/xx/music/pid/1604738/a/1st%2BBorn%2BSecond.htm Product Page: ''1st Born Second'']. [[Muze]]. Retrieved on 2009-08-26.</ref><ref name="Caramanica">Caramanica, Jon. [http://www.blender.com/guide/new/50824/1st-born-second.html Review: ''1st Born Second'']{{dead link|date=December 2016 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}. ''[[Blender (magazine)|Blender]]''. Retrieved on 2010-03-29.</ref>


[[File:Bilal 2008.jpg|right|thumb|260px|Bilal performing in Budapest, Hungary, in 2008.]]
[[File:Bilal 2008.jpg|right|thumb|260px|Bilal performing in Budapest, Hungary, in 2008.]]


The album showcased a wide variety, from the emotionally charged fan-favorite "Soul Sista", which peaked at No. 18 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Songs charts, to the political viewpoints of "Fast Lane" and "Second Child".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.artistdirect.com/nad/store/artist/album/0,,1118569,00.html |title=1st Born Second by Bilal @ ARTISTdirect.com - Shop, Listen, Download |publisher=Artistdirect.com |date=31 July 2001 |accessdate=29 March 2012}}</ref> Bilal managed to gain a sizable following and high attendance at his live shows,<ref name="allmusicbio"/> as well as much acclaim and respect from his peers, many of whom noted his range and ability to sing in a freeform style, and his classically trained falsetto.<ref name="allmusicbio"/> The soulful feel of the album caused Bilal to be labeled as "neo-soul." Bilal stresses that this term does not fit, and throughout his career, his expansion in music and pushing of boundaries proved his point.<ref>{{cite web|author= |url=http://www.thelifefiles.com/2010/09/24/bilal-talks-his-comeback-neo-soul-dr-dre-to-the-life-files/ |title=Bilal Talks His Comeback, Neo-Soul & Dr. Dre To the.LIFE Files! |publisher=Thelifefiles.com |date= |accessdate=29 March 2012}}</ref>
The album showcased a wide variety, from the emotionally charged fan-favorite "Soul Sista", which peaked at No. 18 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Songs charts, to the political viewpoints of "Fast Lane" and "Second Child".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.artistdirect.com/nad/store/artist/album/0,,1118569,00.html |title=1st Born Second by Bilal @ ARTISTdirect.com - Shop, Listen, Download |publisher=Artistdirect.com |date=31 July 2001 |accessdate=29 March 2012}}</ref> Bilal managed to gain a sizable following and high attendance at his live shows,<ref name="allmusicbio"/> as well as much acclaim and respect from his peers, many of whom noted his range and ability to sing in a freeform style, and his classically trained falsetto.<ref name="allmusicbio"/> The soulful feel of the album caused Bilal to be labeled as "neo-soul." Bilal stresses that this term does not fit, and throughout his career, his expansion in music and pushing of boundaries proved his point.<ref>{{cite web|author=|url=http://www.thelifefiles.com/2010/09/24/bilal-talks-his-comeback-neo-soul-dr-dre-to-the-life-files/|title=Bilal Talks His Comeback, Neo-Soul & Dr. Dre To the.LIFE Files!|publisher=Thelifefiles.com|date=|accessdate=29 March 2012|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120328032315/http://www.thelifefiles.com/2010/09/24/bilal-talks-his-comeback-neo-soul-dr-dre-to-the-life-files/|archivedate=28 March 2012|df=dmy-all}}</ref>


In the following years Bilal continued to appear on projects by other artists of both high profile and avant garde, while recording and developing his follow-up set to be released on [[Interscope Records]] and featuring contributions primarily from producers [[Dr. Dre]] and [[J Dilla]]. These plans proved to be changeable and the final result, ''[[Love for Sale (Bilal album)|Love for Sale]]'', was an album that appeared to be built around Bilal's own musicianship. Bilal switched it up on ''Love For Sale'', which includes live instrumentation and a vibe completely new and different from its predecessor.<ref name="theurbandaily">{{cite web|url=http://theurbandaily.com/2010/08/19/bilal-i-wanted-to-quit-making-music/ |title=Bilal: I Wanted To Quit Making Music! |publisher=The Urban Daily |date=19 August 2010 |accessdate=14 September 2013}}</ref> However, his anticipation was shot down after receiving disapproval from Interscope. Unwilling to start from scratch, Bilal continued to push his LP. However, near the album's completion, the album was leaked in its entirety on the Internet.<ref name="theurbandaily" /> Interscope shelved the album indefinitely, hinting that it saw little commercial potential in it. The event sent Bilal into a period of distress,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gangstarrgirl.com/2010/09/bilal-talks-sophomore-lp-why-he-was-never-so-called-neo-soul/ |title=Blog Archive » Bilal Talks Sophomore LP, Why He Was Never So-Called Neo-Soul |publisher=Gangstarr Girl |date=13 September 2010 |accessdate=29 March 2012}}</ref> and was considering quitting music; however, ''Love for Sale'' received over half a million downloads on the Internet,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bilalmusic.com/bio/ |title=BIO - BILAL}}</ref> and Bilal began touring, despite a proper release of the album.
In the following years Bilal continued to appear on projects by other artists of both high profile and avant garde, while recording and developing his follow-up set to be released on [[Interscope Records]] and featuring contributions primarily from producers [[Dr. Dre]] and [[J Dilla]]. These plans proved to be changeable and the final result, ''[[Love for Sale (Bilal album)|Love for Sale]]'', was an album that appeared to be built around Bilal's own musicianship. Bilal switched it up on ''Love For Sale'', which includes live instrumentation and a vibe completely new and different from its predecessor.<ref name="theurbandaily">{{cite web|url=http://theurbandaily.com/2010/08/19/bilal-i-wanted-to-quit-making-music/ |title=Bilal: I Wanted To Quit Making Music! |publisher=The Urban Daily |date=19 August 2010 |accessdate=14 September 2013}}</ref> However, his anticipation was shot down after receiving disapproval from Interscope. Unwilling to start from scratch, Bilal continued to push his LP. However, near the album's completion, the album was leaked in its entirety on the Internet.<ref name="theurbandaily" /> Interscope shelved the album indefinitely, hinting that it saw little commercial potential in it. The event sent Bilal into a period of distress,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gangstarrgirl.com/2010/09/bilal-talks-sophomore-lp-why-he-was-never-so-called-neo-soul/ |title=Blog Archive » Bilal Talks Sophomore LP, Why He Was Never So-Called Neo-Soul |publisher=Gangstarr Girl |date=13 September 2010 |accessdate=29 March 2012}}</ref> and was considering quitting music; however, ''Love for Sale'' received over half a million downloads on the Internet,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bilalmusic.com/bio/ |title=BIO - BILAL |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131004220201/http://www.bilalmusic.com/bio/ |archivedate=4 October 2013 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> and Bilal began touring, despite a proper release of the album.


===2010&ndash;present: Musical return ===
===2010&ndash;present: Musical return ===
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Six days after the release of ''The Retrospection'', Bilal released "Back to Love," the first single off ''A Love Surreal''. A video was released for the song on 8 January 2013, telling the story of a drug-addicted love doctor who ironically uses the advice he gives to his patients to help his own relationship.<ref>[http://www.vibe.com/article/v-premiere-bilal-back-love-video V Premiere! Bilal "Back To Love" (Video)]. Vibe (8 January 2013). Retrieved on 2013-03-07.</ref> The song sets the tone for the album, which Bilal says embodies "the whole process [of love]: meeting, the break-up, [and] the get-back-together." ''A Love Surreal'' was released on 26 February 2013.<ref>[http://potholesinmyblog.com/video-bilals-welcome-to-a-love-surreal/ Video: Bilal’s “Welcome to A Love Surreal”]. Potholes in My Blog. Retrieved on 2013-03-07.</ref>
Six days after the release of ''The Retrospection'', Bilal released "Back to Love," the first single off ''A Love Surreal''. A video was released for the song on 8 January 2013, telling the story of a drug-addicted love doctor who ironically uses the advice he gives to his patients to help his own relationship.<ref>[http://www.vibe.com/article/v-premiere-bilal-back-love-video V Premiere! Bilal "Back To Love" (Video)]. Vibe (8 January 2013). Retrieved on 2013-03-07.</ref> The song sets the tone for the album, which Bilal says embodies "the whole process [of love]: meeting, the break-up, [and] the get-back-together." ''A Love Surreal'' was released on 26 February 2013.<ref>[http://potholesinmyblog.com/video-bilals-welcome-to-a-love-surreal/ Video: Bilal’s “Welcome to A Love Surreal”]. Potholes in My Blog. Retrieved on 2013-03-07.</ref>


With the release of ''[[A Love Surreal]]'', Bilal immediately achieved commercial success, debuting at No. 1 on iTunes' R&B Chart.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bilalmusic.com/2013/03/bilals-a-love-surreal-is-1-selling-on-itunes-in-r-b/ |title=BILAL’s A LOVE SURREAL is #1 selling on ITUNES in R& B! &#124; BILAL |publisher=Bilalmusic.com |date=14 April 2013 |accessdate=20 April 2013}}</ref> On Billboard, the album debuted at No. 17 on the Independent Albums Chart, No. 19 on the R&B Albums Chart, and No. 103 on the Billboard 200, ranking higher than its predecessor, ''[[Airtight's Revenge]]''. The album also received numerous high reviews, including an 8/10 from SPIN Magazine,<ref>{{cite web|last=Mlynar |first=Phillip |url=http://www.spin.com/reviews/bilal-a-love-surreal-eone |title=Bilal, 'A Love Surreal' (eOne) &#124; SPIN &#124; Albums &#124; Critical Mass |publisher=SPIN |date= |accessdate=20 April 2013}}</ref> a 4.5/5 stars from [[Allmusic]], and a 4/4 stars from [[USA Today]].<ref>{{cite web|author= |url=http://www.usatoday.com/story/life/music/2013/02/25/bilal-mavericks-ivan-and-alyosha-listen-up/1947213/ |title=Listen Up: Bilal, Mavericks, Ivan and Alyosha |publisher=Usatoday.com |date=26 February 2013 |accessdate=20 April 2013}}</ref>
With the release of ''[[A Love Surreal]]'', Bilal immediately achieved commercial success, debuting at No. 1 on iTunes' R&B Chart.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bilalmusic.com/2013/03/bilals-a-love-surreal-is-1-selling-on-itunes-in-r-b/ |title=BILAL’s A LOVE SURREAL is #1 selling on ITUNES in R& B! &#124; BILAL |publisher=Bilalmusic.com |date=14 April 2013 |accessdate=20 April 2013 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130722180617/http://www.bilalmusic.com/2013/03/bilals-a-love-surreal-is-1-selling-on-itunes-in-r-b/ |archivedate=22 July 2013 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> On Billboard, the album debuted at No. 17 on the Independent Albums Chart, No. 19 on the R&B Albums Chart, and No. 103 on the Billboard 200, ranking higher than its predecessor, ''[[Airtight's Revenge]]''. The album also received numerous high reviews, including an 8/10 from SPIN Magazine,<ref>{{cite web|last=Mlynar |first=Phillip |url=http://www.spin.com/reviews/bilal-a-love-surreal-eone |title=Bilal, 'A Love Surreal' (eOne) &#124; SPIN &#124; Albums &#124; Critical Mass |publisher=SPIN |date= |accessdate=20 April 2013}}</ref> a 4.5/5 stars from [[Allmusic]], and a 4/4 stars from [[USA Today]].<ref>{{cite web|author= |url=http://www.usatoday.com/story/life/music/2013/02/25/bilal-mavericks-ivan-and-alyosha-listen-up/1947213/ |title=Listen Up: Bilal, Mavericks, Ivan and Alyosha |publisher=Usatoday.com |date=26 February 2013 |accessdate=20 April 2013}}</ref>


==Discography==
==Discography==
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* [[The Roots]] on "The OtherSide" from ''[[Undun]]''
* [[The Roots]] on "The OtherSide" from ''[[Undun]]''
'''2012'''
'''2012'''
* [[Robert Glasper]] on "Always Shine Ft. [[Lupe Fiasco]]" & "Letter to Hermione" from ''[[Black Radio]]''<ref>{{cite web|title=Letter to Hermione (Ft. Bilal)|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/black-radio/id488036560|work=iTunes|publisher=Blue Note Records}}</ref>
* [[Robert Glasper]] on "Always Shine Ft. [[Lupe Fiasco]]" & "Letter to Hermione" from ''[[Black Radio]]''<ref>{{cite web|title=Letter to Hermione (Ft. Bilal)|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/black-radio/id488036560|work=iTunes|publisher=Blue Note Records|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131012053921/https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/black-radio/id488036560|archivedate=12 October 2013|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
* [[Lupe Fiasco]] on "How Dare You" from ''[[Lupe Fiasco's Food & Liquor II: The Great American Rap Album Pt. 1]]''
* [[Lupe Fiasco]] on "How Dare You" from ''[[Lupe Fiasco's Food & Liquor II: The Great American Rap Album Pt. 1]]''
* [[Chrisette Michele]] on "Can the Cool Be Loved?" from ''Better''
* [[Chrisette Michele]] on "Can the Cool Be Loved?" from ''Better''
Line 183: Line 183:
==External links==
==External links==
* [http://www.bilalmusic.com/ Official site]
* [http://www.bilalmusic.com/ Official site]
* [http://www.obnoxiouslisteners.com/album/1st-born-second-bilal/ Obnoxious Listener's Review of Bilal]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20080921192028/http://www.obnoxiouslisteners.com/album/1st-born-second-bilal/ Obnoxious Listener's Review of Bilal]
* [http://www.soulrnb.com/communaute/groups?categoryid=10 Bilal Fan Group] SoulRnB.com
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20100726174109/http://www.soulrnb.com/communaute/groups?categoryid=10 Bilal Fan Group] SoulRnB.com
* {{Allmusic|class=artist|id=p454406|label=Bilal}}
* {{Allmusic|class=artist|id=p454406|label=Bilal}}
* [http://soulinterviews.com/progressive-underground/609-bilal-video-interview.html Bilal 2011 Video Interview ] Soulinterviews.com
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20110207154022/http://soulinterviews.com/progressive-underground/609-bilal-video-interview.html Bilal 2011 Video Interview ] Soulinterviews.com


{{Bilal}}
{{Bilal}}

Revision as of 03:21, 20 July 2017

For other uses, see Bilal (disambiguation).

Bilal
Background information
Birth nameBilal Sayeed Oliver
Born (1979-08-23) August 23, 1979 (age 44)
OriginPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
GenresNeo soul,[1] R&B, funk, jazz, hip hop[2]
Occupation(s)Musician, singer, songwriter, producer
Instrument(s)Vocals, keyboards, guitar
Years active1999–present
LabelsInterscope
Plug Research
Purpose/E1 Music
WebsiteBilalMusic.com, Bilal on X

Bilal Sayeed Oliver (born August 23, 1979),[3] better known mononymously as Bilal, is an American singer-songwriter, musician and producer. He is currently an independent artist residing in New York City.[4]

Bilal is noted for his wide vocal range, his work across multiple genres, and his live performances. He has been well received, both nationally and internationally, with an extensive list of collaborations including Kendrick Lamar, Common, Erykah Badu, Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Guru, Kimbra, J Dilla, Robert Glasper, The Roots, and many more.

Early life

Bilal was born as Bilal Sayeed Oliver in Germantown Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He grew up in a religiously mixed household, his mother being a devout Christian and his father, a Muslim. He regularly attended church with his mother in a small church that consisted of mostly family members. It was where Bilal grew an interest in music and singing.[5] Bilal attended The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music.[6] Attended and Graduated from the High School for Creative And Performing Arts (CAPA) in 1998.

Career

1999–2010: Debut and hiatus

Bilal began to familiarize himself with the music scene in New York City, meeting big talents such as Common, The Roots, and Erykah Badu. Eventually, he was discovered by Aaron Comess from the Spin Doctors during an after-school jam session. It was with him that Bilal recorded his demo that landed him a record deal with Interscope.[7] In 2001, he released his debut album 1st Born Second, which featured contributions from the Soulquarians as well as high-profile producers such as Dr. Dre and J Dilla.[8] The album peaked at number 31 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart, and it has sold 319,000 copies.[9] 1st Born Second received universal acclaim from music critics; and holds a score of 82 out of 100 at Metacritic.[10] The album earned rave reviews from publications, including The Village Voice, Chicago Sun-Times, and USA Today,[11][12][13] and it also received comparisons to the music of Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Sly & the Family Stone, Prince, and Curtis Mayfield.[10][14][15][16]

Bilal performing in Budapest, Hungary, in 2008.

The album showcased a wide variety, from the emotionally charged fan-favorite "Soul Sista", which peaked at No. 18 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Songs charts, to the political viewpoints of "Fast Lane" and "Second Child".[17] Bilal managed to gain a sizable following and high attendance at his live shows,[3] as well as much acclaim and respect from his peers, many of whom noted his range and ability to sing in a freeform style, and his classically trained falsetto.[3] The soulful feel of the album caused Bilal to be labeled as "neo-soul." Bilal stresses that this term does not fit, and throughout his career, his expansion in music and pushing of boundaries proved his point.[18]

In the following years Bilal continued to appear on projects by other artists of both high profile and avant garde, while recording and developing his follow-up set to be released on Interscope Records and featuring contributions primarily from producers Dr. Dre and J Dilla. These plans proved to be changeable and the final result, Love for Sale, was an album that appeared to be built around Bilal's own musicianship. Bilal switched it up on Love For Sale, which includes live instrumentation and a vibe completely new and different from its predecessor.[19] However, his anticipation was shot down after receiving disapproval from Interscope. Unwilling to start from scratch, Bilal continued to push his LP. However, near the album's completion, the album was leaked in its entirety on the Internet.[19] Interscope shelved the album indefinitely, hinting that it saw little commercial potential in it. The event sent Bilal into a period of distress,[20] and was considering quitting music; however, Love for Sale received over half a million downloads on the Internet,[21] and Bilal began touring, despite a proper release of the album.

2010–present: Musical return

After nine years without a properly released album, Bilal made a comeback on 14 September 2010 with Airtight's Revenge, a sophomore LP released under independent record label Plug Research. Bilal describes the album as a retrospective album: an album that explores his experiences and things that he's learned since his last release. An experimental album, Airtight's Revenge blends jazz, hip-hop, electronic, rock, soul, and blues into one raw, genuine collection of music.[22]

In 2012, Bilal revealed plans for a new album under a new label, eOne Music.[23] During several interviews, Bilal described the new project as "a lot warmer and [more] sensual" than its conceptual predecessor.[24] The new album, titled A Love Surreal, has a more acoustic sound, as Bilal worked very closely with his entire band. To set up the album's release, on 5 December 2012, Bilal released a mixtape titled The Retrospection via Facebook.[25]

Six days after the release of The Retrospection, Bilal released "Back to Love," the first single off A Love Surreal. A video was released for the song on 8 January 2013, telling the story of a drug-addicted love doctor who ironically uses the advice he gives to his patients to help his own relationship.[26] The song sets the tone for the album, which Bilal says embodies "the whole process [of love]: meeting, the break-up, [and] the get-back-together." A Love Surreal was released on 26 February 2013.[27]

With the release of A Love Surreal, Bilal immediately achieved commercial success, debuting at No. 1 on iTunes' R&B Chart.[28] On Billboard, the album debuted at No. 17 on the Independent Albums Chart, No. 19 on the R&B Albums Chart, and No. 103 on the Billboard 200, ranking higher than its predecessor, Airtight's Revenge. The album also received numerous high reviews, including an 8/10 from SPIN Magazine,[29] a 4.5/5 stars from Allmusic, and a 4/4 stars from USA Today.[30]

Discography

Studio albums
Mixtapes
  • The Return of Mr. Wonderful (2007)
  • The Retrospection (2012)
Singles

Appearances

Songs:
with Common
  • "Funky For You" (Common & Jill Scott) from Like Water for Chocolate
  • "Nag Champa (Afrodesiac for the World)" from Like Water for Chocolate
  • "The 6th Sense" from Like Water for Chocolate
  • "Heaven Somewhere" from Electric Circus
  • "Aquarius" from Electric Circus
  • "Star69 (PS With Love)" from Electric Circus
  • "Faithful" (Common & John Legend) from Be
  • "It's Your World/Pop's Reprise" from Be
  • "U, Black Maybe" from Finding Forever
  • "Misunderstood" from Finding Forever
  • "Play Your Cards Right" from Finding Forever
  • "Joy and Peace" from Black America Again
  • "Home" from "Black America Again"
  • "A Bigger Picture Called Free" from "Black America Again"
  • "Letter To The Free" from "Black America Again"
with others

1999

  • Grenique[31] on "Let Go", "You Say" and "Love Within" from Black Butterfly

2000

2001

2002

  • Scratch, on "Square One" from The Embodiment of Instrumentation
  • Talib Kweli on "Waitin' for the DJ" & "Talkin' to You" from Quality
  • Da Ranjahz & Ras Kass on "Da Dopest"
  • Jaguar Wright on "I Can't Wait" from Denials Delusions and Decisions
  • Tweet on "Best Friend" from Southern Hummingbird
  • Cherokee, on "A Woman Knows" from Soul Parade
  • John Ellis, on "John Brown's Gun", "Nowny Dreams" and "The Lonely Jesus" from Roots, Branches & Leaves

2003

2004

  • Boney James's "Better With Time", from Pure
  • Robert Glasper on "Maiden Voyage" and "Don't Close Your Eyes" from Mood
  • Max Herre on "Playground" from Max Herre

2005

  • Robert Glasper on "Chant" from Canvas
  • Luvpark on "Fade Away" and "Luvtheme" from Luvpark

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2014

2015

2016

Awards and nominations

Bilal has been nominated four career Grammy Awards, winning one.

Tours

References

  1. ^ Price, Emmett George (2010). Encyclopedia of African American Music. Vol. 3. ABC-CLIO. p. 656. ISBN 0313341990.
  2. ^ Good, Karen Renée (October 2000). "Next". Vibe. New York: 106. Retrieved 14 December 2012.
  3. ^ a b c Kellman, Andy. "Bilal Biography". Allmusic. Retrieved 2010. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |accessdate= (help)
  4. ^ "Bilal Biography". Starpulse.com. Retrieved 29 March 2012.
  5. ^ Swan, Rachel. "Rough-Style Romancer | Music | Oakland, Berkeley & the Bay Area". Eastbayexpress.com. Retrieved 29 March 2012.
  6. ^ "History".
  7. ^ "Bilal". Ontheroxentertainment.com. Retrieved 29 March 2012.
  8. ^ [1][dead link]
  9. ^ Herrera, Monica. Bilal To Release Electro-Jazz Rock Album In 2010. Billboard. Retrieved on 2010-01-03.
  10. ^ a b 1st Born Second (2001): Reviews. Metacritic. Retrieved on 2009-08-12. Archived 2009-08-16.
  11. ^ Columnist. "Review: 1st Born Second". Chicago Sun-Times: August 12, 2001. Archived from the original on 2009-08-12. (Transcription of original review at talk page)
  12. ^ Jones, Steve. "Review: 1st Born Second". USA Today: D.08. July 31, 2001.
  13. ^ Cepeda, Raquel. Review: 1st Born Second. The Village Voice. Retrieved on 2009-08-12.
  14. ^ Columnist. Review: 1st Born Second. The Independent. Retrieved on 2009-08-12.
  15. ^ Product Page: 1st Born Second. Muze. Retrieved on 2009-08-26.
  16. ^ Caramanica, Jon. Review: 1st Born Second[permanent dead link]. Blender. Retrieved on 2010-03-29.
  17. ^ "1st Born Second by Bilal @ ARTISTdirect.com - Shop, Listen, Download". Artistdirect.com. 31 July 2001. Retrieved 29 March 2012.
  18. ^ "Bilal Talks His Comeback, Neo-Soul & Dr. Dre To the.LIFE Files!". Thelifefiles.com. Archived from the original on 28 March 2012. Retrieved 29 March 2012. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  19. ^ a b "Bilal: I Wanted To Quit Making Music!". The Urban Daily. 19 August 2010. Retrieved 14 September 2013.
  20. ^ "Blog Archive » Bilal Talks Sophomore LP, Why He Was Never So-Called Neo-Soul". Gangstarr Girl. 13 September 2010. Retrieved 29 March 2012.
  21. ^ "BIO - BILAL". Archived from the original on 4 October 2013. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  22. ^ "Music - Review of Bilal - Airtight's Revenge". BBC. Retrieved 29 March 2012.
  23. ^ [EXCLUSIVE] Bilal Finds New Label, New Attitude - Entertainment & Culture. EBONY. Retrieved on 2013-03-07.
  24. ^ Artist to Artist: Bilal–Supersonic Soul. Soul Train. Retrieved on 2013-03-07.
  25. ^ Hey everybody, as.... Facebook. Retrieved on 2013-03-07.
  26. ^ V Premiere! Bilal "Back To Love" (Video). Vibe (8 January 2013). Retrieved on 2013-03-07.
  27. ^ Video: Bilal’s “Welcome to A Love Surreal”. Potholes in My Blog. Retrieved on 2013-03-07.
  28. ^ "BILAL's A LOVE SURREAL is #1 selling on ITUNES in R& B! | BILAL". Bilalmusic.com. 14 April 2013. Archived from the original on 22 July 2013. Retrieved 20 April 2013. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  29. ^ Mlynar, Phillip. "Bilal, 'A Love Surreal' (eOne) | SPIN | Albums | Critical Mass". SPIN. Retrieved 20 April 2013.
  30. ^ "Listen Up: Bilal, Mavericks, Ivan and Alyosha". Usatoday.com. 26 February 2013. Retrieved 20 April 2013.
  31. ^ "Black Butterfly: Grenique: Music". Amazon.com. Retrieved 20 April 2013.
  32. ^ "Letter to Hermione (Ft. Bilal)". iTunes. Blue Note Records. Archived from the original on 12 October 2013. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

External links

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