This Is How We Do It: Exploring Montell Jordan's Enduring Impact
"This Is How We Do It": A Deep Dive into Montell Jordan's Masterpiece
Montell Jordan's "This Is How We Do It" isn't just a song; it's a cultural snapshot. Released in 1995, the track became an instant anthem, capturing the essence of West Coast cool and youthful exuberance. But what makes this song so enduring? Why does it still resonate with audiences decades later? This article explores the song's origins, its cultural impact, and the legacy it has cemented in music history.
The Birth of an Anthem: From Gospel Roots to Hip-Hop Infusion
Montell Jordan's musical journey began far from the hip-hop scene. Raised in a religious household, his early musical experiences were steeped in gospel. He sang in church and developed a strong foundation in vocal performance. This gospel influence, surprisingly, played a crucial role in shaping the soulful melodies and harmonies that would later define his signature sound.
Before hitting it big with "This Is How We Do It," Jordan wasn't initially focused on becoming a performer. He was studying at Pepperdine University, working towards a degree in psychology. Music was a passion, but not necessarily a career path. However, his undeniable talent and drive eventually led him to pursue music professionally. He started writing songs and shopping them around to various labels. His demos caught the attention of Russell Simmons at Def Jam Recordings, leading to a record deal.
The creation of "This Is How We Do It" was a collaborative effort. Montell Jordan worked with producers like Oji Pierce to craft the perfect blend of hip-hop beats, catchy melodies, and relatable lyrics. The song's sample, lifted from Slick Rick's "Children's Story," provided a familiar and infectious foundation. Jordan then layered his smooth vocals and storytelling lyrics on top, creating a sound that was both fresh and familiar.
Lyrical Landscape: Painting a Picture of Friday Night
The genius of "This Is How We Do It" lies in its simplicity. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a typical Friday night in South Central Los Angeles, capturing the energy, excitement, and camaraderie of youth culture. It's a celebration of good times, friendship, and the simple pleasures of life. The song's relatability is key to its enduring appeal. Everyone, regardless of their background, can connect with the feeling of wanting to let loose and enjoy a weekend.
Consider some of the iconic lyrics:
- "This is how we do it, all through the night, how we do it." - This instantly recognizable hook is the song's anchor, a simple yet powerful statement of identity and celebration.
- "South Central does it like nobody does." - This line specifically grounds the song in its cultural context, highlighting the unique style and energy of South Central Los Angeles.
- "Rollin' in my ride, chillin' with my crew." - This evokes a sense of community and belonging, emphasizing the importance of friendship and shared experiences.
These lyrics, combined with Jordan's smooth delivery, create an immersive experience for the listener, transporting them to the heart of the party. It's a soundtrack for good times, a reminder of youthful energy, and a celebration of community.
Cultural Impact: Beyond the Charts
"This Is How We Do It" wasn't just a chart-topping hit; it was a cultural phenomenon. The song's infectious energy and relatable lyrics resonated with audiences across demographics and geographical boundaries. It became a staple at parties, clubs, and sporting events, solidifying its place in popular culture.
The song's success also helped to bridge the gap between hip-hop and mainstream audiences. While hip-hop had been gaining popularity for years, "This Is How We Do It" presented a more accessible and palatable version of the genre to a wider audience. Its clean lyrics and catchy melodies made it suitable for radio play and family-friendly events, further expanding its reach.
Furthermore, the song's music video, directed by Hype Williams, played a significant role in shaping its image and appeal. The video showcased the vibrant street culture of Los Angeles, featuring breakdancing, lowrider cars, and a diverse cast of characters. It presented a positive and celebratory image of urban life, countering negative stereotypes and promoting a sense of community.
The Enduring Appeal: Why It Still Resonates Today
Decades after its release, "This Is How We Do It" continues to be a beloved and frequently played song. Its enduring appeal can be attributed to several factors:
- Nostalgia: For many, the song evokes a sense of nostalgia, transporting them back to a simpler time. It's a reminder of carefree youth, good friends, and unforgettable memories.
- Relatability: As mentioned earlier, the song's themes of friendship, celebration, and the pursuit of good times are universally relatable. Everyone can connect with the feeling of wanting to let loose and enjoy life.
- Timelessness: Despite being rooted in the 1990s, the song's core message and musical style remain timeless. It doesn't sound dated or out of touch.
- Catchiness: The song's infectious beat and catchy melodies are simply irresistible. It's a song that makes you want to dance and sing along, regardless of your age or musical preferences.
The song has also enjoyed a resurgence in popularity thanks to its use in films, television shows, and commercials. Its upbeat energy and recognizable hook make it a perfect choice for creating a sense of fun and excitement. This exposure to new audiences has helped to keep the song relevant and popular with younger generations.
Montell Jordan's Legacy: More Than Just One Hit
While "This Is How We Do It" remains Montell Jordan's signature song, his musical career extends far beyond this one hit. He released several other successful albums and singles throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, exploring various genres and styles. He collaborated with other artists and continued to evolve his sound. However, the impact of "This Is How We Do It" on his career is undeniable.
The song catapulted him to stardom, opening doors and creating opportunities that he might not have otherwise had. It established him as a major force in the music industry and cemented his place in pop culture history. While he later transitioned to a career in ministry, his musical legacy remains strong. He continues to perform "This Is How We Do It" at concerts and events, bringing joy to audiences around the world.
Furthermore, Montell Jordan's success paved the way for other artists to blend hip-hop and R&B, creating a new sound that resonated with a wide audience. He helped to break down barriers and create new opportunities for artists from diverse backgrounds. His influence on the music industry is undeniable.
The Song's Enduring Influence on Music
The influence of "This Is How We Do It" can be heard in countless songs and artists that followed. Its blend of hip-hop beats, soulful melodies, and relatable lyrics became a blueprint for many successful pop and R&B tracks. The song's emphasis on community and celebration also resonated with a generation of artists who sought to create music that was both fun and meaningful.
Consider these examples of the song's influence:
- Pop Music: The song's catchy melodies and sing-along hooks influenced the development of mainstream pop music, making it more accessible and relatable to a wider audience.
- R&B: The song's blend of hip-hop and R&B helped to blur the lines between the two genres, creating new opportunities for artists to experiment with different sounds.
- Hip-Hop: While not a traditional hip-hop song, "This Is How We Do It" helped to introduce hip-hop culture to a wider audience, paving the way for the genre's continued growth and mainstream acceptance.
The song's legacy extends beyond the music itself. It helped to shape the cultural landscape of the 1990s and continues to resonate with audiences today. It's a reminder of a time when music was fun, optimistic, and inclusive.
"This Is How We Do It" in Modern Media
The song's enduring popularity is evident in its continued use in modern media. It has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, often used to evoke a sense of nostalgia or create a party atmosphere. Its inclusion in these platforms helps to keep the song relevant and popular with new generations of listeners.
Here are a few examples of its use in modern media:
- Films: The song has been featured in films such as "The Nutty Professor," "White Chicks," and "Pixels," often used to create a comedic or celebratory mood.
- Television Shows: It has appeared in television shows such as "Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," "Scrubs," and "Brooklyn Nine-Nine," often used to create a sense of nostalgia or highlight a particular cultural moment.
- Commercials: The song has been used in commercials for brands such as McDonald's, Pepsi, and Old Navy, often used to create a sense of fun and excitement.
These appearances in modern media help to ensure that "This Is How We Do It" remains a relevant and recognizable song, even for those who weren't alive when it was first released.
The Transition to Ministry: A New Chapter for Montell Jordan
In recent years, Montell Jordan has transitioned to a career in ministry, becoming a pastor and motivational speaker. This shift may seem surprising to some, but it's a natural extension of his lifelong faith and his desire to make a positive impact on the world. He has spoken openly about his struggles with fame and fortune, and his desire to use his platform to inspire others to live a more meaningful life.
While his focus has shifted away from secular music, he still acknowledges the importance of "This Is How We Do It" in his life and career. He understands that the song brought joy to millions of people, and he continues to perform it at select events. He sees the song as a tool that he can use to connect with people and share his message of hope and redemption.
His transition to ministry demonstrates his commitment to using his talents and experiences to serve others. He has become a role model for many, showing that it's possible to change direction in life and pursue a new path that aligns with your values and beliefs.
Legacy Secured: "This Is How We Do It" in the Annals of Music History
"This Is How We Do It" has undeniably earned its place in music history. It's a song that transcends genres, generations, and cultural boundaries. Its infectious energy, relatable lyrics, and timeless appeal have made it a beloved classic. It's a song that continues to be played, enjoyed, and celebrated around the world.
The song's legacy is secured not only by its chart success and cultural impact, but also by its ability to evoke a sense of joy, nostalgia, and community. It's a song that reminds us of the importance of friendship, celebration, and the simple pleasures of life.
As long as people continue to gather, celebrate, and enjoy life, "This Is How We Do It" will continue to be a part of the soundtrack. It's a timeless anthem that will forever be associated with Montell Jordan and the spirit of the 1990s.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Song - A Cultural Touchstone
In conclusion, "This Is How We Do It" is more than just a catchy song; it's a cultural touchstone. It represents a specific moment in time, a unique blend of musical styles, and a universal celebration of youth and community. Its enduring appeal speaks to the power of music to connect people, evoke emotions, and create lasting memories. Montell Jordan's masterpiece continues to resonate with audiences today, solidifying its place in music history as a timeless classic.