This Is How We Do It

Released in April 1995, 'This Is How We Do It' served as the manifesto for Def Jam's R&B expansion. Montell Jordan, standing at 6'8", was a physically and vocally imposing figure who redefined the 'Hip-Hop Soul' blueprint previously established by Uptown Records. The album is most famous for its title track, which famously sampled Slick Rick’s 'Children’s Story,' but the full project reveals a sophisticated understanding of songcraft. Produced largely by Oji Pierce and Jordan himself, the record successfully integrated the sonic language of West Coast rap - specifically the heavy bass and laid-back tempos - with traditional soul structures. Critical reception via AllMusic highlights the album's ability to maintain a 'party' atmosphere without sacrificing vocal integrity. The inclusion of tracks like 'Daddy’s Home' demonstrates a willingness to tackle complex themes of fatherhood and regret, providing a narrative depth that elevated the album beyond simple club fare. It remains a cornerstone of 90s R&B, marking the moment the genre fully embraced the aesthetics of the hip-hop generation.