If you’re from Gen X, there’s a pretty good chance Jon B’s classic love song “They Don’t Know” is your jam. It’s one of those tracks that instantly takes you back to the emotional times of your first serious romance. Though he had a few other hits in the ‘90s, this is definitely Jon B’s signature song.
Over the years, there have been countless covers of the song, but one in particular has Jon B feeling some type of way. During a recent appearance on the “Can We Talk R&B?” podcast, the “Someone to Love” singer made his thoughts on Gunna and Chlöe’s “You & Me,”—which samples the guitar and lyrics from his hit—very clear.
“They put that ratchet record out that I couldn’t stand, and I wish they never did,” he said. “[They] actually never got my rights to do that record, either, so, Gunna, we gotta holler about that… That’s some business s—- we got to handle.”
Art is always subjective, however, we’ve certainly heard better versions. As usual, Chlöe’s vocals are beautiful. Maybe next time, just let her sing the whole song. The track’s music video on YouTube features quite a few new comments from people who were curious after Jon B’s remarks. It seems most of them agree with the singer.
One person sided with the ‘90s R&B star, writing, “Jon B brought me here and I can for 1000% sure say that he was right.”
Another viewer noted how disrespectful it was to do this without the original artist’s consent, replying, “It’s unfortunate that this song was made without Jon B’s permission and blessing. He deserved recognition and his flowers for real.”
Someone else, didn’t mince words as they made their thoughts on remakes known, writing, “Leave the old good stuff ALONE!”
Based on the comments under the video, a lot of people didn’t even know this song existed. While Jon B has every right to be upset about an allegedly unauthorized sample, his words have actually brought more attention to the track he despises.