Raphael Saadiq

Raphael Saadiq has continuously rejuvenated and reshaped aspects of traditional Black music since his breakthrough with Tony! Toni! Toné!'s "Little Walter" (1988). In retrospect, that number one R&B/hip-hop hit -- with its modern sound and clever incorporation of the melody from the spiritual "Wade in the Water" -- seems like a statement of intent that has guided the stylish retro-contemporary singer, songwriter, instrumentalist, and producer throughout a discography of tremendous depth. As the multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated Tony! Toni! Toné! wound down in the mid-'90s, Saad...