J. Poww’s 2025 release I Did It My Way is more than just an album—it’s a heartfelt conversation between past and present. As the former frontman of the ‘90s R&B group U.N.V., Poww taps into the rich emotional palette that defined his early career, delivering a collection of soul classics that feel as personal as they are timeless.
The album, released in February, revisits ten iconic tracks, including Babyface’s “Whip Appeal,” Freddie Jackson’s “Rock Me Tonight,” and Bobby Caldwell’s “What You Won’t Do for Love.” Rather than mimic the originals, Poww reinterprets them through his seasoned voice and lived experience. The result is a sound that honors the spirit of these songs while offering something distinctly new. His rendition of U.N.V.’s own hit, “Something’s Goin’ On,” serves as a powerful bridge between where he’s been and where he’s going.
Behind the album’s warm, polished production is Grammy-winning producer Christopher Bivins, known as Buddafly Wolf. Together with engineer Jezreel Santos, the team crafted a sonic atmosphere that feels intimate and modern, yet steeped in the textures of classic R&B. The arrangements are careful not to overshadow the emotional gravity of the lyrics, allowing Poww’s voice to carry the weight and warmth of each story.
For Poww, the project is rooted in gratitude. In interviews, he’s spoken about his desire to pay tribute to the artists who shaped him, ensuring that each cover received the original artist’s blessing. There’s a deep sincerity in how these songs are handled—this isn’t a nostalgia grab, but rather a love letter to a genre and era that still pulse through his veins.
Live audiences have had a chance to experience the magic firsthand, with Poww performing selections from the album on tour. A standout moment was his appearance alongside Boyz II Men at Soaring Eagle Casino Resort, a show that underscored his lasting connection to the R&B community.
With I Did It My Way, J. Poww proves that the essence of soul doesn’t fade—it matures, deepens, and takes on new meaning. ~ Doug D. Sims
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