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Description
New Jack Smooth is a sub-genre of R&B that serves as a bridge between the rhythmic intensity of New Jack Swing and the sensual, melodic atmosphere of Quiet Storm.
It retains the characteristic 'swing' drum patterns, heavy gated snares, and hip-hop influenced production of New Jack Swing but applies them to mid-tempo grooves and ballads rather than high-energy dance tracks.
The sound is defined by its polished production, lush synthesizer layers, and a focus on romantic, soulful vocal performances, creating a vibe that is both danceable and suitable for late-night listening.
History
The genre emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s as a natural evolution of the New Jack Swing movement pioneered by producers like Teddy Riley.
As New Jack Swing dominated the charts with high-energy dance anthems, R&B artists and producers began adapting the sound for 'Quiet Storm' radio formats. They slowed down the tempo and softened the aggressive edges of the production while keeping the signature swing beat that defined the era.
During the early 1990s, this sound became the standard for R&B ballads. Artists like Michael Sterling and Marva Hicks exemplified this blend, releasing tracks that possessed the grit of hip-hop drums but the harmonic complexity of soul music. It was a time when the 'slow jam' became more rhythmic, moving away from the acoustic ballads of the 70s toward a more synthesized, beat-driven sound.
While the mainstream popularity of the specific 'New Jack' drum sound faded by the mid-90s in favor of smoother Hip-Hop Soul, the genre has maintained a cult following. It is often celebrated today in specific digital micro-genres and playlists that highlight these smooth, groove-heavy gems that defined the romantic side of the 90s R&B era.
How to make a track in this genre
To compose in the style of New Jack Smooth, focus on creating a groove that is rhythmic yet relaxed.
The foundation is the 'swing' beat. Use a drum machine (like an MPC60 or SP-1200) with a swing setting between 55% and 65%. The kick drum should be punchy, and the snare should be heavy and often 'gated' (cutting off abruptly). The tempo should sit comfortably between 80 and 95 BPM—fast enough to nod your head to, but slow enough to set a mood.
Use digital synthesizers popular in the early 90s, such as the Yamaha DX7 or Roland D-50. Layer 'glassy' electric piano sounds with warm, analog-style synth pads to create a lush background. Basslines should be deep and funky, often played on a synth, locking in tight with the kick drum to emphasize the swing feel.
Vocals should be soulful and melismatic, drawing from the gospel and soul traditions. Harmonies are essential; stack multiple vocal tracks to create thick, chordal backgrounds during the chorus. Lyrically, focus on themes of romance, courtship, and relationships. A spoken-word intro or bridge, delivered in a deep, smooth voice, is a classic trope of the genre.
