When you think of the architects of modern R&B and pop, two names stand above the rest: Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. With a career spanning decades, this dynamic duo has shaped the sound of music history. Recently, the legends sat down to discuss their incredible journey, their philosophy on longevity, and their upcoming residency in Las Vegas. From their humble beginnings in Minneapolis to becoming five-time Grammy winners and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees, Jam and Lewis have remained remarkably grounded. Their secret? A focus on being “warm for a long time” rather than just the hottest thing of the moment.

The “Nothing But Hits” Residency in Las Vegas

The biggest news for fans is the announcement of their residency at Voltaire at the Venetian Resort in Las Vegas. Titled “Nothing But Hits,” the show runs from the 17th to the 26th of the month. This isn’t just another concert; it’s a celebration of a catalog that has defined generations. For those lucky enough to attend the meet-and-greet, the duo is even offering personalized and signed iconic Jam and Lewis sunglasses. These signature shades are part of their Flight Time Lifestyle brand, a nod to their legendary production company, Flight Time.

Why a Residency Now? The “Bucket List” Mentality

Many wonder why producers of their stature, who have already achieved everything possible in the music industry, would choose to do a residency now. For Jimmy Jam, it’s about checking off the “bucket list.” “We’re trying to check things off the list of things we haven’t done,” Jimmy explained. He reminisced about their early days as a local band in Minneapolis. Back then, they were just musicians playing everyone else’s hits. That experience actually taught them how to write and produce. Now, they have the opportunity to return to the stage as musicians, but this time, they are playing their own legendary hits. Terry Lewis has a slightly more colorful name for it—he calls it the “F*** It List.” At this stage in their careers, they are doing it for the love of the craft and the joy of the performance.

Key Takeaways: Wisdom from the Legends

Beyond the music, the interview provided deep insights into the mindset required to stay at the top of a competitive industry for forty years. Here are some of the most actionable insights from the duo:

• Be Comfortable Being Uncomfortable: Terry Lewis emphasized that nerves are a good thing. Growth only happens when you step outside your comfort zone. “If you’re just always solid in how you feel about things, then you’re never going to try anything different,” Terry noted.
• Longevity Over Hype: Jimmy Jam shared their production philosophy: “We don’t want to be the hottest producers; we just want to be warm for a long time.” This focus on consistency over temporary fame is why they hold the record for the most nominations in the Producer of the Year category at the Grammys (11 nominations).
• Never Stop Learning: Terry pointed out that as they’ve gotten older, they’ve become smarter because they now know what they don’t know. This allows them to ask the right questions and continue evolving.
• Embrace Your Role: For the residency, Terry is excited to step away from the roles of producer, mentor, and businessman to simply be a bass player. There is power in returning to your primary passion.

The Power of Versatility: Choosing the Right Vocalists

To bring their massive catalog to life on the Vegas stage, Jam and Lewis hand-picked two powerhouse vocalists: Ruben Studdard and Shanice. The decision was strategic. Jimmy Jam explained that their repertoire covers a massive spectrum of male and female vocal styles. Ruben Studdard, the first American Idol winner, was chosen for his ability to master any genre—from the smooth soul of Alexander O’Neal to the modern hits of Usher and Johnny Gill. On the female side, Shanice (a Star Search winner) was the perfect fit. Jimmy described her as a “Janet disciple,” capable of tackling the complex and demanding hits of Janet Jackson, as well as songs by Mary J. Blige, Mariah Carey, and Cherrelle.

The 40th Anniversary of ‘Control’

The interview also touched on a massive milestone: the upcoming 40th anniversary of Janet Jackson’s Control album. Released in February 1986, Control was the project that cemented Jam and Lewis as production royalty and transformed Janet into a global superstar. When asked where he ranks Control among their masterpieces, Terry Lewis remained humble. “I’ve never ranked anything,” he said. “You just love them for what they are.” He lives by the philosophy that yesterday’s score doesn’t count for today’s game. For Jam and Lewis, the focus is always on what have you done for me lately—a fitting reference to one of their most famous tracks.

A Legacy That Keeps Moving Forward

Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis are more than just hitmakers; they are students of music who became its masters. Their upcoming residency at the Venetian is a rare opportunity to see the men behind the curtain step into the spotlight. Whether they are discussing the importance of being “warm for a long time” or the necessity of staying “uncomfortable” to foster growth, their wisdom is as timeless as their music. As they prepare to take over Las Vegas with “Nothing But Hits,” one thing is clear: the legacy of Jam and Lewis is still being written, one beat at a time. Don’t miss the chance to see these icons live in Las Vegas this month, and keep an eye on Flight Time Lifestyle for a piece of music history.