GINUWINE: Ginuwine Thoughts

By Kathy Harris

There are several stars in the music world who consistently radiate light. They become the envy of the men and rule the hearts of women. Multi-platinum R&B crooner Elgin Baylor aka Ginuwine is one such individual. The 33-year-old heartthrob is an absolute personification of his name and has returned to win over the hearts of fans once again. His sultry sex appeal is best remembered on Billboard hits such as “Pony,” “Differences,” and “In Those Jeans.” Four years have passed since Ginuwine released his last full length project, 2005’s Back II Da Basics. His latest single “Last Chance” from his recently released new album, A Man’s Thoughts, marks the return to the familiar sound his fans have grown to love. As he confidently relays on the stellar new track, “If I only got one shot to win you, then call me Jordan, 4th quarter in ‘92,” he re-asserts that his persuasive vocals are indeed still on point. On a picturesque afternoon in Los Angeles, Ginuwine shares thoughts on his new album, the state of music today and why he needed to take a hiatus from the industry.

“Music is the key to everything,” Ginuwine says with a smile. “I saw Michael Jackson on the Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever Special in 1983 and the reaction he received inspired me to move people in the same way.” The Washington D.C. native would use that motivation to later become an impressionist of the King of Pop and perform in local talent shows with a group by the name Physical Wonder. After graduating from Forestville High School in 1993, he went on to earn a paralegal associate’s degree from Prince George’s Community College just in case his pursuits in music did not work out. However, Ginuwine was never worried; he knew he had a special gift. “I couldn’t live with myself if I didn’t try,” he explains.

Shortly after graduation, Ginuwine would be discovered by Jodeci member, songwriter and producer, Devante Swing and become a part of Devante’s Swing Mob Collective. He reflects, “Devante took me in and through him, I met Missy Elliot and Timbaland (Timothy Mosely). He gave me my first opportunity and I ran with it.” Believing in the saying, “When opportunity knocks, kick down the door,” Ginuwine would take the strategy to become a megastar. Soon after meeting Timbaland and Missy, Elgin Baylor adopted the stage name “Ginuwine” and grew wings from there. As the synergy developed between Timbaland, Ginuwine would continue to belt out unforgetable R&B hits such the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles Chart number one hit “Pony” from his debut album, Ginuwine…the Bachelor. Between his mesmerizing vocals and Timbaland’s provocative, revolutionary beats, the two would immediately make an impact and become a force to be reckoned with.

In 1999, Ginuwine release his second album, 100% Ginuwine, also produced by Timbaland. The album debuted at number five on the charts, becoming his second platinum album and certifying Ginuwine as a bona fide sex symbol. 100% would also make Timbaland one of the most sought-after producers in music. Unfortunately, as a result of schedule conflicts and the natural growth of stars in the music biz, the duo would go their own ways by the release of 2001’s The Life. “We both started off when we were not the men or artists that we have become today,” Ginuwine reflects. “I am happy to be a part of his legacy.” Although the two did not collaborate on The Life, the album would still reach platinum status upon the strength of Ginuwine’s only Billboard Hot 100 Top Five single “Differences.”

Following the release of his fifth studio album Back II Da Basics in 2005, Ginuwine decided to take a hiatus from making music. For an artist who consistently topped the charts from 1995 to 2006, many questioned why he would take a break from such consistent success? He explains, “I just needed a break. After working hard for almost ten years, you deserve a break. I just wanted to do family things and spend time at home.”

Today, he remains a very happily married man and father of two young ladies. “Fatherhood is so important. Whatever it takes to be a good father you have to do it,” Ginuwine says with passion. One of the greatest traits about Ginuwine has always been his humanity. His “genuine” nature is what the public has grown to know and love about him. Through his memorable, infectious and heartfelt songs, his fans and music advocates in general understand and identify with his views on sex, dating and relationships.

Now, with his new album A Man’s Thoughts, Ginuwine’s mission is to quench the thirst of his loyal fans and develop a new fan base with his unadulterated skills and dedication to the craft. He conveys, “I want this new album to reflect me; the way I am now and how I live. It definitely reflects a more mature me and how I do things.” His new single “Last Chance” is produced by Brian Michael Cox and is certainly an ode to this notion. Thoughts features an impressive collective of industry vets from various music genres including Missy Elliott, Brandy and Bun B backed by the production from several of today’s most revered hitmakers such as the aforementioned Cox, Johnta Austin, Polow Da Don and The Runners.

At times, it’s hard for the public to differentiate the person from their profession–especially when it comes to the world of entertainment. Ginuwine makes the separation rather easy by providing the most affective vehicle for fans and the world to learn about him and his life: through music. His success and longevity is seldom heard of and truly extraordinary in an era where established artists are facing increasingly difficult obstacles to sell albums while most newcomers fail to even see the booth to record sophomore projects. Not Ginuwine, who continues to artistically express his Thoughts, and light up the stage and charts with the star power he always knew he possessed.

Images: Kenny Sweeny

Styling: Penelope Patteee