Jazzyfatnastees

Jazzyfatnastees, the duo of Tracey Moore and Mercedes Martinez, represent a pivotal bridge in the evolution of neo-soul, specifically within the Philadelphia 'Soulquarian' orbit. Originally a quartet signed to Tommy Boy, their transition to a duo coincided with a move to Philly and a deep association with The Roots.

This connection is foundational; they were the first act signed to Motive Records, the Roots' MCA imprint. Their sound identity is defined by intricate vocal counterpoint and a commitment to live, organic instrumentation that eschews the programmed rigidity of mainstream 90s R&B. Beyond their recordings, they were culturally significant as founders of 'Black Lily,' a legendary weekly showcase at Philly’s Five Spot that provided a platform for Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, and Floetry. Critical consensus views them as 'musician's musicians,' praised for their harmonic sophistication and their role in fostering the organic soul community. Their career arc shows a steady refinement of this unhurried, jazz-influenced aesthetic, maintaining a high standard of self-written and self-produced material that remains a benchmark for the genre's more intellectual, understated wing.