Donnie Simpson Show

S2 E11: Raheem DeVaughn

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Donnie reconnects with Grammy-nominated R&B singer/songwriter Raheem DeVaughn, marking 20 years of friendship and the 20th anniversary of Raheem's debut album, "The Love Experience." Raheem reflects on his artistic journey, the empowering themes in his hit song "Woman," and the invaluable lessons he learned from his parents. He opens up about personal challenges related to his father's mental health, which fuels his advocacy for mental health awareness through his foundation, highlighting the importance of therapy and self-care. Raheem also shares his experiences as a radio personality on Howard University Radio for the original Quiet Storm, honoring the legacy of Melvin Lindsey. This heartfelt conversation reveals how music, personal growth, and spirituality shape Raheem's life. Don't miss this inspiring episode!

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S2 E10: The LeVert Experience

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Join R&B trio The LeVert Experience—Marc Gordon (original member of LeVert), Dave Tolliver (Men at Large), and Joe Little III (The Rude Boys)—as they honor the legacy of Gerald and Sean LeVert. Discover how they preserve and celebrate LeVert's timeless music while sharing about their personal growth and shifts in the music industry. Catch a sneak peek of their soulful performances that revive the essence of R&B, inspired by legends like Stevie Wonder, Nat King Cole, and Parliament-Funkadelic. Tune in to this conversation that revives the soulful heart of R&B and pays tribute to the enduring legacy of Gerald and Sean LeVert.

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S2 E9: Kevin Ross

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Wed, 3 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this motivating episode, R&B singer/songwriter/producer Kevin Ross shares his journey working with stars like Jamie Foxx and Toni Braxton, as well as his contributions to television. Inspired by his parents and mentors from Duke Ellington School of the Arts and Berklee, he transitioned from writing for others to his own artistry after catching the attention of LA Reid. Kevin shares insights about his time at Motown, where he released his debut single "Long Song Away," and emphasizes the rise of independent entrepreneurship in R&B, highlighting artists like Eric Roberson and Raheem DeVaughn. They explore the significance of music videos, radio, and TV in today's music landscape. Also, Kevin reveals his dream collaboration and the legacy he hopes to leave for future generations.

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S2 E8: James Brown

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this inspiring episode of The Donnie Simpson Show, Donnie sits down with James "JB" Brown, a 5-time Emmy Award-winning broadcaster and current host of NFL Today and Inside The NFL. This interview goes beyond sports talk, capturing two close friends catching up as JB reflects on his remarkable journey from Harvard to breaking barriers in sports broadcasting. They discuss their personal friendship, grandparenting joys, and JB's insights into success and bringing out the best in others. They also delve into JB's path to becoming an ordained minister and his passion for uplifting others. Don't miss this candid and heartfelt conversation!

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S2 E7: Will Downing

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 14:48:00 +0000

Singer/songwriter Will Downing sits down with Donnie to discuss his creative and personal journeys as he works on his 29th album. Since the release of his debut album in 1988, Will reflects on the evolution of the in-studio recording process and the ongoing demand for new music in today's tech-driven landscape. He reveals how a pivotal scholarship set him on his musical path, his influences from icons like Luther Vandross and Al Jarreau, and the artists he hopes to collaborate with. Will also gets personal about battling a major health issue and the deep, heartbreaking loss of his daughter, which inspired his poignant song "Till We Meet Again." Don't miss this powerful conversation about music, health, loss, and resilience.

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S2 E6: Sherry Carter

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Wed, 5 Nov 2025 13:27:00 +0000

Former Video Soul co-host Sherry Carter reunites with Donnie for a long-awaited sit-down! They discuss the impact of BET and Video Soul, share funny celebrity stories, recount behind-the-scenes moments, and set the record straight about Tupac and more. Don't miss this nostalgic trip down memory lane as they play catch-up and discover what Sherry's been up to—it's like listening in on two friends reminiscing about the good ole days!

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S2 E5: October London

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 02:26:00 +0000

Grammy Award Winner and Death Row artist October London kicks back with Donnie on the couch! In this episode, they unpack the significance of awards, their mutual love for Old-School R&B, his creative flow, and signing with Snoop Dogg. Discover October's latest projects and why he stays loyal to Death Row. Don't miss this cool conversation that's giving nostalgic Video Soul vibes!

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S2 E4: Robert "Bob" Johnson

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 11:43:00 +0000

Robert "Bob" Johnson, the powerhouse behind Black Entertainment Television (BET) and the first Black billionaire, sits down with Donnie for a must-see interview at the iconic Video Soul studio—where it all began! They dive into their roots at BET and how Bob turned it into a game-changing platform for Black content. Discover Bob's vision of BET, the magic behind Video Soul's cultural impact, and his candid thoughts on the criticism he faced during the network's sale, as well as his latest venture. Don't miss this rare opportunity to join Donnie in an unforgettable conversation with his former boss, mentor, and visionary, packed with rich history and captivating stories!

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S2 E3: Anthony Hamilton

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 19:35:00 +0000

Grammy Award-winning R&B artist Anthony Hamilton delves into his family roots and musical influences that have shaped his distinctive sound. In this captivating interview, Anthony shares his love for South Africa, reveals the story behind his hit song "Charlene," and discusses the lasting impact of icons like Prince and Frankie Beverly on his career. Don't miss this engaging conversation—tune in now!

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S2 E2: Chanté Moore

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Wed, 8 Oct 2025 18:51:00 +0000

Don't miss this unforgettable episode of The Donnie Simpson Show featuring the amazing Grammy-nominated R&B singer, songwriter, and actress, Chanté Moore!

Chanté takes a walk down memory lane, reflecting on her very first time at the Video Soul studio during the launch of her hit single "Love's Taken Over." In this engaging conversation, she opens up to Donnie about:

Motherhood and balancing family life with her career.

Her dedication to perfecting her craft as an enduring R&B artist.

Her unexpected and massive rise to international fame in China, becoming a viral sensation in the far East.

Tune in for a candid and soulful discussion with an R&B diva!

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S2 E1: Big Daddy Kane

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Wed, 1 Oct 2025 12:45:00 +0000

Donnie sits down with legendary artist and rap icon, Big Daddy Kane.

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S1 E10: George Wallace

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Wed, 26 Jan 2022 11:00:00 +0000

In the season finale, Donnie talks with comedian George Wallace (not to be confused with former governor of Alabama, George Wallace). George dives right into his adventures in show business, including his groundbreaking 1980 appearance on the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, who rarely featured Black guests at the time. George also reminisces on his close friendship with Jerry Seinfeld and how they ended up as roommates when they first started in the New York City comedy scene.

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S1 E9: Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Donnie talks with close friends, R&B songwriting duo Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. The three of them go way back, but not many people know that they were introduced to each other by none other than Donnie's mother! They discuss Jimmy and Terry's experiences in the music industry and their favorite memories of the late, great Prince. As a bonus, Jimmy reveals the importance of creating music and how it impacts his daily life.

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S1 E8: Maya Milan

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 11:00:00 +0000

In this week's episode, Donnie sat down with the one and only Maya Milan, a rising singer from the DMV area who finished as the runner-up in BET's The Next Big Thing. Maya's career kicked off with a fantastic start, beginning with childhood. She reveals who her biggest music inspirations are, including R&B icons Keyshia Cole, Mary J. Blige, and Whitney Houston. Maya reflects upon her youthful days of singing in her church and its influence on her career years later.

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S1 E7: J. Prince

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Wed, 5 Jan 2022 15:41:41 +0000

In this episode, Donnie speaks with J. Prince, a god in the hip-hop industry. They discuss the rapid changes in the music industry landscape in recent years and go over some of his past work. J. Prince gets deep and shares reasons why he believes everyone deserves a second chance—a philosophy reflected in his body of work. https://youtu.be/OXWXnE4mNNQ

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S1 E6: The Sugarhill Gang

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Wed, 29 Dec 2021 11:00:00 +0000

In episode six, Donnie sits down with Master Gee and Wonder Mike of The Sugarhill Gang, the creative masterminds behind "Rapper's Delight." The creators of the first-ever US top 40 rap hit, Master Gee and Wonder Mike, share some unique perspectives on the state of hip-hop today and examine how hip-hop can provide social commentary. They also dive into the group's New Jersey origins and vote on who they believe to be the greatest rapper of all time.

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S1 E5: K-Ci

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Wed, 22 Dec 2021 17:52:13 +0000

In this episode, chart-topping singer-songwriter K-Ci of the reunited quartet Jodeci joins Donnie. K-Ci spills about his musical origins singing gospel music in Baltimore and divulges rare tales of his adventures as a '90s icon--many of them involving his brother, JoJo. Later, K-Ci breaks down his wild experience driving from Charlotte to New York with no money to pitch Jodeci to MCA Records.

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S1 E4: Regina Belle

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Wed, 15 Dec 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In today's episode, Donnie speaks with singer-songwriter Regina Belle, a wonderful friend since 1989. They talk at length about Aretha Franklin and what her music meant to them, as well as the changes in the music industry Regina experienced since starting her career back in the late 1980s. They also explore Belle's personal life, including her triumphant battle with a brain tumor, her experience of winning a Grammy, and the enormous rise of her fanbase as a result of "A Whole New World" (one of, if not, the most successful Disney song of all time).

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S1 E3: Tichina Arnold

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Mon, 6 Dec 2021 15:04:22 +0000

Donnie Simpson sits down with Tichina Arnold: the beloved star of many iconic television shows, such as Martin, Everybody Hates Chris, and the award-winning The Neighborhood on CBS. Tichina dissects her career path, tracing back from her start at the Billie Holiday Theatre in Brooklyn through her current endeavors--even discovering unexpected fame in Brazil. They also reveal the joys of show business and their travels to Jamaica, ending with a passionate discussion about horoscopes.

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S1 E2: DL Hughley

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Mon, 6 Dec 2021 15:02:25 +0000

In this episode, Donnie Simpson catches up with the king of comedy, D.L. Hughley. In an unexpected twist, Hughley gets philosophical and discusses his unique perspective on self-love and why Marvin Gaye is his primary inspiration. But, in typical D.L. fashion, he also breaks the seriousness to talk about his performance on Dancing with the Stars and his ongoing feud with Dennis Miller.

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S1 E1: Smokey Robinson

pattstevens@gmail.com (Donnie Simpson) — Mon, 6 Dec 2021 15:00:20 +0000

In the first episode of the Donnie Simpson Show Podcast, Donnie sits down with legendary Motown singer-songwriter Smokey Robinson to chat about their experiences in show business and the legacy of Motown Records. The two also dive into Smokey's most profitable songs, some of which may come as a surprise to even the most dedicated Smokey fans.

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