Algee Smith Reveals How Rodney Jerkins Helped Him Clear ‘The Boy Is Mine’ Sample for New Song at the Last Minute (Exclusive)

Algee Smith Receives Support from Rodney Jerkins to Clear ‘The Boy Is Mine’ Sample

Algee Smith found himself in a dilemma when he co-wrote a new song titled “Spiraling” and needed to clear a sample from Brandy and Monica’s 1998 hit, “The Boy Is Mine” before its release. With time running out, Algee Smith, aged 30, reached out to renowned producer Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins for assistance in clearing the sample. The process had been ongoing for months with no success, but with Jerkins on board, the hurdles were swiftly cleared, allowing the song to be included in Smith’s latest EP, Love Lost, which was released in July.

The track, “Spiraling,” not only features the sampled song but also showcases Smith’s love for old-school R&B. Through the song and EP, Smith opens up about his personal experiences, particularly the challenges faced after a relationship breakdown. He describes the EP as a deeply introspective and vulnerable piece of work, reflecting on his own faults and taking accountability for his actions. The project served as a therapeutic outlet for him to navigate through the emotions of heartbreak.

Growing up surrounded by gospel music and starting to play the drums at a tender age of 2, Smith’s musical journey took flight when his family relocated from Atlanta to Los Angeles to support his dreams. Despite facing financial struggles and living on a friend’s couch with minimal funds, Smith persevered. Eventually, his hard work paid off, leading to successful acting roles in projects such as Euphoria and Kathryn Bigelow’s film, Detroit. His artistic evolution is evident as he continues to shape his craft and aims to excel in both the film and music industries.

Smith’s determination to create meaningful art that resonates with audiences is apparent in his latest music endeavours. By infusing his personal narratives into his work, he aims to forge connections with listeners who may relate to the emotions and experiences depicted in his songs. His passion for music and storytelling is palpable, driving him to pursue his dreams of achieving success in both the film and music realms.

Looking back at his journey, Smith acknowledges the unwavering support from his parents, who played a pivotal role in nurturing his talent and guiding him through the ups and downs of his career. His resilience, coupled with his passion for music, has propelled him towards his goal of creating impactful and memorable art. With a blend of raw honesty and introspection, Algee Smith continues to captivate audiences with his compelling storytelling and musical prowess.

Smith’s collaboration with Rodney Jerkins serves as a testament to the power of mentorship and industry support in the music world. Through perseverance and strategic partnerships, artists like Smith can overcome obstacles and bring their creative visions to fruition. As Smith embarks on the next phase of his career, his commitment to authenticity and emotional depth sets him apart as an artist to watch in the evolving landscape of R&B music.

In conclusion, Algee Smith’s journey serves as an inspiring narrative of resilience, passion, and creative drive in the face of challenges. With a compelling blend of personal storytelling and musical artistry, Smith continues to carve out his path in the industry, leaving an indelible mark on the world of R&B music. His collaboration with Rodney Jerkins underscores the importance of industry relationships and mentorship in fostering artistic growth and success. As Smith navigates his artistic evolution, his dedication to authenticity and emotional expression paves the way for a promising future filled with artistic achievements and creative endeavours.