Timbaland is similar to producers such as Norman Whitfield in that he helped to redefine the sound of an entire genre of music with an immediately recognizable production style. The songs he produces feature unusual arrangements, sounds, and instrumentation, tied together by a trademark sense of rhythm. Like Spector and Whitfield, Timbaland's production sometimes overshadows the credited performer and becomes the actual "star" of the song. With songwriters Steve "Static" Garrett and childhood friend Missy Elliott, Timbaland has helped to create some of the most successful songs in modern pop music and urban music, including singles for Aaliyah, Ginuwine, SWV, Total, and 702.
Mosley grew up in Norfolk, Virginia, where he became acquainted with Missy Elliott and Melvin Barcliff, whose MC name was "Magoo." Originally a disc jockey known as "DJ Timmy Tim," Mosely began making hip-hop backing tracks on a Casio keyboard he owned. In 1993 Elliott heard his material and, taken by Mosley's unique sense of rhythm, immediately began working with him.
Elliott and her girl group Sista auditioned for DeVante Swing, producer and member of successful R&B act Jodeci. Devante signed Sista to his Swing Mob label, and Elliott brought Mosely and Barcliff along with her. Mosely began working under Devante, who renamed the young producer Timbaland, after the Timberland boot popular in hip-hop fashion.
Sista and Timbaland & Magoo became part of Devante's stable of Swing Mob signees known as "Da Bassment" crew, joining artists and groups such as male singer Ginuwine, male vocal group Playa, and girl group Sugah. Timbaland did production work on a number of projects with Devante, including the 1995 Jodeci LP The Show, The After-Party, The Hotel, and Sista's debut LP, which was shevled and never saw release.
Timbaland was also friends with Pharrell Williams, and had dabbled in projects with him as S.B.I., or Surrounded By Idiots. Pharrell recalls in an interview: "âIn seventh grade I met Chad. Thatâs twenty years ago by now. Like I said earlier, we started producing beats together. But then again, I also played with this famous group which consisted of Timbaland, Magoo, myself and some other guy. Chad wasnât a part of the group, so I was in The Neptunes and in Surrounded By Idiots at the same time.â A few tracks produced by the group float around on the internet, the most distributed being "Big White Spaceship".
In 1995, most of Devante's acts broke their ties with the producer and went their own ways. Elliott, Timbaland, Magoo, Playa, and Ginuwine continued to collaborate, and began working on individual projects of their own. Elliott began receiving recognition as a songwriter and guest artist for artists such as 702 and MC Lyte, and Timbaland was sometimes assigned to produce remixes of Elliott-penned songs. One of these, the remix to 702's "Steelo" in 1996, became Timbaland's first important production credit.
Also in 1996, Ginuwine released his debut album, Ginuwine...the Bachelor, which was produced entirely by Timbaland. The album was both a commercial and critical success, and its first single, "Pony," was the first example of what would later become the signature Timbaland sound.
The track for "Pony," which Timbaland had created two years prior during the Swing Mob days, was characterized by a shifting, syncopated rhythm, similar to samba or jungle music, which used snare and kick hits on typically non-accented beats in the measure. Stuttering high-hats typical of southern bass music accompanied the basic drum sounds, which were, unusual for hip-hop and R&B of this period, severely gated to create short, strong sounds. This use of the "short snare" is in marked contrast to the "long snare" sound in New Wave music in the 1980s, which featured a heavily amplified, almost white noise snare drum put through reverb. Accompanying the unusual rhythm were melody lines created by playing odd sound effects (vocal effects and cartoon slide whistles) through a sampling keyboard. The other tracks on Ginuwine...the Bachelor also featured similar production and arrangements. On many of the tracks, Timbaland can be heard either rapping or providing ad-libs, similar to what both Elliott and Puff Daddy where doing at the time; Timbaland's deep voice was usually vocoded to give it an electronic sound.
While work was being completed on Ginuwine...the Bachelor, R&B artist Aaliyah contracted Timbaland and Missy Elliott to write and produce most of her second album, One In A Million. The tracks that were crafted for Aaliyah featured innovative arrangements similar to those on Ginuwine...the Bachelor. One In A Million went on to sell over two million copies, and made superstars out of not only Aaliyah, but Elliott and Timbaland as well.
Elliott and Timbaland became one of the most successful and prolific songwriting/production teams of the late-1990s. By the end of the decade, Timbaland's sound had been heard in records from artists such as SWV, Destiny's Child, Nicole Wray, Jay-Z, Nas. Most of his production work during this period was reserved for his original stable of collaborators: two Missy Elliott albums (Supa Dupa Fly and Da Real World), a second effort by Ginuwine (100% Ginuwine), and Playa's debut album (Cheers 2 U). Timbaland produced much (if not all) of the material on many of their albums during this period, and also made two albums of his own: one with Magoo, and one solo album. Timbaland's own raps, which were usually ghostwritten by Elliott, Magoo, or his younger brother Garland Mosley (AKA Sebastian), were almost always accompanied by other MCs, including his main collaborators and numerous guest artists.
Timbaland spawned a plethora of imitators, some of which went as far as to sample sections of his work to create similar-sounding tracks. The popularity of the "Timbaland sound" marked a shift in hip-hop music from rougher, sample-based tracks to simpler, more synthetic musical accompainiment (unlike many hip-hop producers, Timbaland rarely sampled older records; most of his tracks were crafted by him and his in-house band). Since Timbaland worked in both hip-hop and R&B and often combined elements of one in tracks for the other, his work aided the blending together of the two genres, which became less and less distinct during the first half of the 2000s.
Foreign, especially Asian, instrumentation is present through much of his early work (Xscape's "My Secret" remix, especially, with a rollicking sitar outro and Timbaland ad-libbing "Let's take a little trip...to India"), but was most successful and prevalent with Jay-Z's "Big Pimpin'" (1999), which borrowed directly from the song "Khosara" by Egyptian composer Baligh Hamdi. Missy Elliott's 2001 hit single, "Get Ur Freak On" from her third album, Miss E...So Addictive, was also likewise a smash, using a speedy dhol drumline typical of Bhangra. His borrowing from these cultures has resulted in mixed reactions, with many critics embracing his musical adventurousness and eclecticism and more esoteric, purist factions reacting catiously, and sometimes negatively. In an interview with Missy Elliott in RayGun Magazine, he mentioned a diverse base of influences, from UK Drum 'N Bass to Garage.
Timbaland-produced songs such as Ludacris' "Roll Out (My Business)," Jay-Z's "Hola' Hovito," Petey Pablo's "Raise Up," and Beck's "Diamond Dogs" were recorded and released during this period, and he contributed to Limp Bizkit's 2001 remix album, New Old Songs. He also contributed three songs--all eventually released as singles--to Aaliyah's self-titled third album.
Timbaland & Magoo's second album together, Indecent Proposal, had been scheduled for release in November 2000, and was to feature appearances by Beck, Aaliyah, and new Timbaland proteges--some of whom were signed to his new Beat Club Records imprint--Ms. Jade, Sebastian, Petey Pablo, and Tweet (who was a member of Sugah during the Swing Mob days). The album was delayed until for an entire year, finally being released the following November, and was a commercial disappointment. Beck's vocals for the track "I Am Music" were not included on the final released version, which instead featured Timbaland singing alongside Static (Steven Garrett) of Playa and Aaliyah, who had been killed in a plane crash three months before the release of the album. The loss of Aaliyah deeply affected Timbaland, whose work was less omnipresent after 2001.
The first release on Beat Club was the debut album by Caucasian MC Bubba Sparxxx in October 2002, Dark Days, Bright Nights. Timbaland contributed three tracks to Tweet's debut album, Southern Hummingbird, and produced most of Missy Elliott's fourth and fifth LPs, Under Construction and This Is Not A Test! He also produced hit singles and album tracks for artists such as Li'l Kim ("The Jump Off") and Pastor Troy during this period. Collaborating with Scott Storch, Timbaland also produced a number of tracks on former *NSYNC lead singer Justin Timberlake's solo debut, Justified, including the hit single "Cry Me a River".
Late in 2003, Timbaland delivered the second Bubba Sparxxx album, Deliverance, and the third Timbaland & Magoo album, Under Construction, Part II. Both albums were released to little fanfare or acclaim even though Deliverance was praised by reviews and embraced by the internet community.
Timbaland continues to produce hit singles and albums for artists; in 2004 Timbaland-produced singles by LL Cool J, Xzibit, and Jay-Z became staples on urban radio, and he produced the bulk of Brandy's fourth album, Afrodisiac. New songs from artists such as Tweet and The Game are set for release in 2005.
2005 saw Timbaland producing a song on Tweet and The Game's albums ("Steer" and "Put You on The Game" respectively). He also produced 2 songs on Missy Elliott's 6th album (The Cookbook), "Joy" featuring Mike Jones and "Partytime."
Timbaland started his new label, Mosely Music Group, once again under Interscope. On the label are singers Nelly Furtado and Keri Hilson, and rapper D.O.E. Timbaland's parternship and mentorship of upcoming producer Nate "Danjahandz" Hills is evident in Timbaland's rejuvination in music.
Furtado looks to have her third album, Loose, released under MMG with in the first half of 2006 with Hilson's debut following shortly after. Timbaland is also slated to work with Justin Timberlake, Hilary Duff as well as albums by Jamie Foxx, JC Chasez, Busta Rhymes, Diddy, Ludacris, Chingy, Chilli of TLC, Tweet, and a lot more.
In 2006, Timbaland produced songs "Promiscuous" "My love" and "Sexyback" topped the charts for over fourteen weeks. In 2007, the tracks "Say It Right" and "What Goes Around" also topped the charts. The year 2007 also saw the release of his album "Timbaland presents Shock Value" which featured Fall Out Boy, The Hives, Elton John, Nicole Scherzinger, Justin Timberlake, Nelly Furtado, Missy Elliot, Sebastian (his brother), Keri Hilson, Money, Attitude, and Jim Beanz.
Promiscuous
timbaLand Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
So, I'm jamming, right? And I see her in the background
I'm like, "oh"
The song "Promiscuous" by Timbaland and Nelly Furtado is all about sexual tension between two individuals. The first verse sets the tone for the song, as Timbaland approaches Nelly Furtado and expresses his interest in her while she seems to play a little hard to get. The chorus is a back and forth between the two, with Timbaland calling Nelly a "promiscuous girl" and Nelly responding that Timbaland is a "promiscuous boy." The two seem to have a playful and sexual energy between them, with both parties expressing interest in the other.
The second verse takes things a step further, with Nelly saying that she can handle herself but may need Timbaland's help in the future. The two continue to tease and flirt with each other throughout the song, with Nelly asking Timbaland if he can handle her and Timbaland responding confidently that he can. The song is all about physical attraction and the desire to explore that attraction.
Line by Line Meaning
Am I throwing you off?
Are my words and actions making you feel confused or uncomfortable?
Nope
No, you're not throwing me off.
How you doing, young lady?
How are you feeling, woman who catches my eye?
The feeling that you giving really drives me crazy
The way you make me feel is intoxicating and I can't get enough of it.
You're dope, have a player 'bout to choke
You're amazing and I'm so enamored with you that I can't speak.
I was at a loss of words first time that we spoke
I couldn't find the right words to express my attraction to you when we first met.
You're looking for a girl that'll treat you right
You want to find a woman who will treat you well in a relationship.
Have you looking for her in the daytime with a light
You've been searching for this woman diligently, even during the day time when there's light.
You might be the type if I play my cards right
If I make the right moves and say the right things, you might be into me.
I'll find out by the end of the night
I'll know for sure by the end of tonight.
You expect me to just let you hit it
You think I'm interested in only a sexual relationship with you.
But will you still respect me if you get it?
Will you still regard me positively after we have sex?
All I can do is try, give me one chance
I can only do my best to prove myself to you, please give me a chance.
What's the problem? I don't see no ring on your hand
I don't understand why you're apprehensive about me. You don't seem to be attached or committed to anyone else.
I'll be the first to admit it
I'll be honest and upfront about this.
I'm curious about you, you seem so innocent
I'm very interested in you because you seem so pure and wholesome.
You wanna get in my world, get lost in it
You want to explore my world, and get completely immersed in it.
Boy, I'm tired of runnin', let's walk for a minute (hey)
I'm tired of playing games, let's just enjoy each other's company for a while.
Promiscuous girl, wherever you are
A lustful woman, no matter where she is.
I'm all alone, and it's you that I want
I'm alone and I desire you.
Promiscuous boy, you already know
A womanizer, you're aware of this.
That I'm all yours, what you waiting for?
I'm completely devoted to you, what are you waiting for?
Promiscuous girl, you're teasin' me
A seductive and teasing woman, that's what you are.
You know what I want, and I got what you need
You're aware of my desires, and I can fulfill your needs.
Promiscuous boy, let's get to the point
A womanizer, let's not beat around the bush.
'Cause we're on a roll, you ready?
We've got momentum and things are progressing, are you ready for what's to come?
Roses are red, some diamonds are blue
Roses are red, and some diamonds have a blue hue.
Chivalry is dead, but you're still kinda cute
Chivalry is no longer observed, but you're still rather charming.
Hey, I can't keep my mind off you
I'm completely fixated on you, I can't stop thinking about you.
Where you at? Do you mind if I come through?
Where are you located? May I come visit you?
I'm out of this world, come with me to my planet
I'm exceptional, and I want you to come with me on this incredible journey.
Get you on my level, do you think that you can handle it?
I want you to understand what it's like to be with me, do you believe you're capable of it?
They call me Thomas, last name Crown
I go by the name Thomas Crown.
Recognize game, I'ma lay mine's down
Acknowledge my expertise, I'm going to put my skills on display.
I'm a big girl, I can handle myself
I'm mature and capable of taking care of myself.
But if I get lonely I might need your help (whoa)
However, if I become lonely, I might require your assistance.
Pay attention to me, I don't talk for my health
Listen to what I'm saying, I'm not speaking without reason.
I want you on my team, so does everybody else
I want you to be on my side, and so do many other people.
Shh, baby we can keep it on the low (low)
Let's keep our relationship secret.
Let your guard down, ain't nobody gotta know (know)
Relax and be yourself, there's no need to worry about other people finding out about us.
If you with it, girl, I know a place we can go
If you're interested in pursuing a relationship with me, I know the perfect place for us to go.
What kind of girl do you take me for? (Hey)
What kind of woman do you think I am?
Don't be mad, don't get mean
Don't be angry, don't become hostile.
Wait, I don't mean no harm
Hold on, I don't intend to cause any harm.
I can see you with my t-shirt on
I can envision you wearing my clothing.
I can see you with nothin' on
I can imagine you completely nude.
Feelin' on me before you bring that on
Touching and feeling me before undressing.
Bring that on? You know what I mean
Bring that on? You know exactly what I'm talking about.
Girl, I'm a freak, you shouldn't say those things
I'm a sexual deviant, but you shouldn't encourage me talking so explicitly.
I'm only tryna get inside of your brain
I'm just trying to understand your thoughts and motives.
To see if you can work me the way you say
To see if you can satisfy me in the way that you claim you can.
It's okay, it's alright
It's acceptable, there's nothing wrong with it.
I got something that you gon' like
I have something that you'll enjoy.
Hey, is that the truth or are you talking trash?
Hey, is what you're saying factual or are you kidding around?
Is your game M.V.P. like Steve Nash? (Hey)
Are your skills in this area exceptional, like Steve Nash's basketball skills?
Promiscuous boy, I'm callin' ya name
A womanizer, I'm addressing you directly.
But you're drivin' me crazy the way you're makin' me wait
But the way you're making me wait is driving me mad.
Promiscuous boy, we're one in the same
We're both promiscuous and have similar tendencies.
So we don't gotta play games no more
Therefore, we don't have to engage in games and deception any longer.
Lyrics © DistroKid, Universal Music Publishing Group, ANTHEM ENTERTAINMENT LP, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, RESERVOIR MEDIA MANAGEMENT INC
Written by: Floyd Nathaniel Hills, Nelly Kim Furtado, Timothy Clayton, Timothy Z. Mosley
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@SuperRaedizzle
Surprised with how fresh this song still sounds
@Queenofblood666x
Hi Rae â€ïžâ€ïžâ€ïžâ€ïž
@zoezhong1721
Hi
@artist.lifeart
Hi
@gabygab9608
Hiii rae how are you
@420_Lucifer
Mainly because of TikTok
@SuperRaedizzle
3:34 I had no idea Justin Timberlake was in this video
@anthonyvasquez1259
first
@Home-uv6xg
Lmao the scene he played is so funny tho
@gravejugg
fr