Welcome to The Rhythm Rewynd — a space where music lives, breathes, and grooves. Here, I dive into the classics, explore fresh sounds, break down live performances, and create playlists that feed the soul.

I’m Rachel J., a lifelong music lover who started this blog in 2025 as a creative outlet to express my passion for music — old and new — and to connect with fellow music lovers who want to share thoughts, critiques, and new discoveries.

Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia — the birthplace of many musical legends such as OutKast, T.I., Ciara, and TLC, I have always felt a deep connection to the vibrant cultural landscape that defines this city. A city steeped in musical history and home to Def Jam Records, I was surrounded by rich sounds from day one. Growing up in Atlanta is where my love for music began; my childhood home was filled with vinyls and CDs spanning several decades, featuring genres from hip-hop to R&B and even jazz. My earliest memories are listening to albums with my family and hearing, “What do y’all know about this?” My journey then took me to Howard University in Washington, DC, swirling in music all across the Black diaspora, where I was fortunate enough to explore various musical styles and traditions, learning from legends and fellow artists alike. The university played a vital role in shaping my understanding of music as both an art form and a form of cultural expression, as I connected with old-school go-go pioneer Chuck Brown and icons like Marvin Gaye to new-age R&B artist Ari Lennox. I now live in Philadelphia, a dynamic city that gave us the soul-soaked voices of Jill Scott, Jazmine Sullivan, and Boyz II Men, and I continue to immerse myself in its rich musical heritage, collaborating with local musicians and exploring the thriving arts scene, which inspires me every day to push the boundaries of creativity and expand my own musical horizons.

Through all the cities I’ve called home, one thing has remained constant: a deep appreciation for the sounds that shape Black culture and reflect the Black experience. From the soul and funk records spinning in my parents’ living room to the hip-hop and R&B gems I discovered on Atlanta radio and 106 & Park, music has always been a source of joy, identity, and inspiration.

The Rhythm Rewynd is my space to celebrate that love, sharpen my writing, and share the playlists and reflections that come from years of listening, feeling, and vibing. I’m a self-proclaimed music extraordinaire who’s seen dozens of artists live — from Beyoncé (3x!) and Kendrick Lamar (2x) to J. Cole, Jill Scott, Amine, Drake, Future, Tyler, the Creator, Corinne Bailey Rae, Usher, Janet Jackson, Ari Lennox, Summer Walker, The Migos, and many more.

So if you’re into rewinding the classics, vibing with the new, and celebrating music in all its forms —you’re in the right place. Let’s journey through the rhythm together.

With Love,

Rachel J.