In this flashback, we revisit our full-length interview with R&B veteran Donell Jones. He opened up about growing up on the South Side of Chicago, his experiences with gang banging, and being arrested for armed robbery at the age of 15. Donell also explained how the OGs helped keep things under control when he was growing up, comparing that to the “chaos” he sees in Chicago today.

As the conversation continued, Donell spoke about his father, who was a pastor and also inspired his love of music, as well as the influence of his grandparents and mother.

The 49-year-old then reflected on connecting with Heavy D’s former DJ and legendary producer Eddie F of Untouchable Entertainment and LaFace Records, writing music for Usher’s album, and eventually signing with one of the hottest R&B labels in the country.