The ongoing debate over who can really sing in R&B took a sharp turn this week, with Jacquees and Mario at the center of a viral clash. What began as a casual question on Cam Newton’s Funky Friday podcast quickly spiraled into a heated online conversation about talent, tone, and legacy.
During the interview, Newton posed a provocative challenge: “Every singer can’t sing. But let’s be real—who really can?” As he ran through a list of names that included Omarion, Bryson Tiller, Ray J, and Jacquees, Mario paused before delivering his now-viral critique: “He can sing, he can sing. He can’t sang, but he can sing. He be on key.”
That subtle dig—just two words, “can’t sang”—was enough to set off Jacquees. Within hours, the Georgia-born singer fired back on X, writing, “Cam Newton & Mario some h**s, keep my name out y’all mouth on dat lil podcast…. I been minding my business.”
Though the post was deleted soon after, screenshots spread fast, sending fans into debate mode. Jacquees joins a conversation started by Kevin McCall last month.
Jacquees Addresses Mario and Cam Newton Over Singing Comments
Some sided with Mario, praising his technical range and control, calling him “the blueprint for real vocals.” Others defended Jacquees, arguing his melodic style reflects the evolution of R&B, where mood often outweighs power.
Memes comparing the two singers’ live performances flooded social media, reviving the question that’s followed Jacquees since he dubbed himself the “King of R&B” in 2019. Jacquees is best known for his “Quemix,” where he remixes other R&B hits.
Jacquees’ reaction captured the tension between tradition and innovation in the genre. For many, Mario represents an era that values raw delivery and live skill. Jacquees, meanwhile, embodies the streaming generation—smooth, confident, and unafraid to experiment with tone and technology.
While Cam Newton laughed off the comment on-air, Jacquees’ post made clear he wasn’t amused. The viral moment not only reignited old debates but also reaffirmed Jacquees’ knack for staying in the cultural conversation—whether through controversy or music.
Neither Mario nor Newton has publicly addressed the exchange. Still, fans expect Jacquees to answer in the way he knows best—through song. In R&B, this clash the passion behind the mic remains the driving force behind the genre.
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