Raphael Saadiq

Growing up in Oakland, California, Raphael Saadiq found refuge at the Oakland Boys Club, a place where he could “do the right thing and still fit in.” While violence plagued his neighborhood, the Club offered an alternative path through activities like bumper pool, woodshop, and most importantly, music programs.

The Club's summer camp program proved transformative, getting him out of the city and onto the stage for talent shows. These early performances built the confidence and skills that would lead to an extraordinary breakthrough—at just 17, he earned a spot touring with the legendary Prince.

As a founding member of Tony! Toni! Toné!, Raphael helped create some of R&B's most beloved hits. His evolution into a solo artist and sought-after producer has seen him work with music's biggest names while maintaining the authenticity and soul that defined his Oakland roots.