February 6, 1995, marked a pivotal moment in music history. When Montell Jordan released his debut single, "This Is How We Do It," the landscape of R&B and Hip-Hop was undergoing a seismic shift. This track did more than just top the charts; it redefined the crossover potential of "Hip-Hop Soul," a genre that married the smooth, melodic sensibilities of R&B with the gritty, rhythmic foundation of rap.

Nearly three decades after its release, the opening piano riff and the iconic line "It's Friday night and I feel alright" still possess the power to fill a dance floor instantly. From weddings to sporting events, the song has transcended its 1990s origins to become a universal cultural touchstone. Understanding its enduring legacy requires a deep dive into its production, its cultural context, and the unique career of the man who brought it to life.

The Cultural Landscape of 1995 and the Def Jam Revolution

To appreciate the impact of "This Is How We Do It," one must understand the state of the music industry in the mid-90s. At the time, Def Jam Recordings was the undisputed heavyweight champion of Hip-Hop. Founded by Rick Rubin and Russell Simmons, the label had built its reputation on the raw energy of artists like LL Cool J, Public Enemy, and Beastie Boys. However, by 1995, the market was shifting.

Montell Jordan was a massive 6'8" singer with a soulful voice and a background in jazz and gospel. When he signed with Def Jam, he became the label’s first major R&B artist. This was a significant gamble for a label known for boom-bap beats and aggressive lyricism. "This Is How We Do It" served as the bridge. It proved that Def Jam could dominate the "Urban Contemporary" space without losing its street credibility.

The song arrived during the tail end of New Jack Swing, a style pioneered by Teddy Riley that blended swing beats with R&B. However, Jordan’s track moved away from the frantic energy of New Jack Swing toward a more laid-back, "G-Funk" adjacent groove that resonated with the West Coast aesthetic of the era.

The Anatomy of a Masterpiece: Sampling Slick Rick and Bob James

The brilliance of "This Is How We Do It" lies in its DNA. The track is built upon one of the most recognizable samples in Hip-Hop history: the drum beat and melodic structure of Slick Rick’s 1988 classic, "Children's Story."

By utilizing the "Children's Story" sample, produced by Slick Rick himself, Montell Jordan and co-producer Oji Pierce tapped into an existing reservoir of cultural nostalgia. But the sampling didn't stop there. "Children's Story" had itself interpolated the bassline from Bob James' 1974 jazz-fusion track "Nautilus." This layering creates a rich, multi-generational sonic texture.

In our analysis of the production, the key to the song’s success is the "enhanced" drum beat. While Slick Rick's original was sparse and storytelling-focused, Jordan’s version boosted the low-end frequencies, making it club-ready. The juxtaposition of Jordan’s smooth, church-trained vocals over a "hard" Hip-Hop beat was revolutionary for 1995. It was a template that many artists, from Mary J. Blige to Usher, would continue to refine throughout the decade.

Decoding the Lyrics: A Love Letter to South Central Los Angeles

While many party songs of the 90s focused on generic themes of dancing, "This Is How We Do It" was deeply rooted in a specific time and place: South Central Los Angeles. For those who grew up in the "Shaw" (Crenshaw Boulevard) or around the neighborhoods mentioned in the song, the lyrics felt like a documentary of a perfect Friday night.

The lyrics navigate the delicate balance of street life and celebration:

  • The "Forty" and the "Six-Four": References to drinking 40-ounce malt liquor and driving a 1964 Chevy Impala were staples of West Coast culture.
  • The Peace Treaty: One of the most significant lines in the song is "All the gang-bangers forgot about the drive-by." In the mid-90s, Los Angeles was still recovering from the civil unrest of 1992 and the height of the gang wars. Jordan’s lyrics envisioned a momentary truce sparked by music—a sentiment of unity that gave the song a deeper emotional resonance than a standard club track.
  • The Professional Aspiration: Jordan mentions "Once upon a time in '94, Montell made no money and life sure was slow." This autobiographical touch made him relatable. He wasn't just a superstar; he was a guy from the neighborhood who worked hard to "get his groove on before he go get paid."

Visual Excellence: The Hype Williams Aesthetic

No discussion of this song is complete without mentioning the music video. Directed by the legendary Hype Williams, the video is a masterclass in 90s visual storytelling. Williams, who would go on to define the look of the "Bling Era" with his fisheye lenses and vibrant color palettes, kept things relatively grounded for Jordan’s debut.

The video features a house party in South Central, filled with authentic fashion of the time—Karl Kani oversized gear, "summertime skirts," and gold chains. The lighting was warm and inviting, capturing the "alright" feeling Jordan sang about. It wasn't about the excess of a mansion; it was about the communal joy of a neighborhood gathering. This visual authenticity helped the song cross over from the R&B charts to MTV and mainstream pop audiences worldwide.

Chart Domination and Commercial Success

The commercial trajectory of "This Is How We Do It" was nothing short of spectacular. Released in early February, it climbed the charts steadily until it hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100 on April 15, 1995.

The song achieved several rare feats:

  1. Seven-Week Reign: It held the top spot for seven consecutive weeks, displacing Madonna’s "Take a Bow."
  2. R&B Supremacy: Simultaneously, it topped the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart for seven weeks, proving its universal appeal.
  3. Platinum Certification: The single sold over one million copies in the United States alone.
  4. Grammy Recognition: It earned Montell Jordan a Grammy nomination for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance.

While Jordan had subsequent hits, such as "Somethin' 4 Da Honeyz" and the sultry "Get It On Tonite" in 1999, "This Is How We Do It" remained his signature achievement. It is often cited as one of the most successful debut singles of all time.

Who wrote This Is How We Do It?

The song was a collaborative effort that combined fresh talent with established legends. The primary credits are as follows:

  • Montell Jordan: Lead vocals, songwriting, and co-production.
  • Oji Pierce: Co-production and songwriting. Pierce was instrumental in shaping the "Hip-Hop Soul" sound of the track.
  • Slick Rick (Ricky Walters): Credited as a songwriter due to the extensive use of the "Children's Story" sample.
  • Bob James: Often credited via interpolation for the "Nautilus" bassline elements.

The synergy between Jordan's melodic writing and Pierce's rhythmic sensibilities created a "lightning in a bottle" moment that proved difficult for others to replicate.

What is the BPM of This Is How We Do It?

For DJs and music producers, the technical specifications of the song are a key reason for its longevity. The song sits at approximately 104 BPM (Beats Per Minute).

This tempo is considered the "sweet spot" for party music. It is slow enough for a relaxed "two-step" dance but fast enough to maintain high energy. Its 4/4 time signature and steady backbeat make it incredibly easy to mix with both older funk tracks and modern R&B hits. This technical versatility ensures that it remains a staple in "Old School" sets globally.

The Legacy of Remixes and Covers

The impact of "This Is How We Do It" can be measured by how many times it has been reinvented.

  • The Mis-Teeq Version (2002): The British girl group Mis-Teeq released a garage-influenced cover that reached number seven on the UK Singles Chart. It introduced the song to a new generation of listeners in the early 2000s.
  • The Joe Stone Remix (2015): Dutch DJ Joe Stone released "The Party (This Is How We Do It)," a deep house reimagining that featured new vocals from Montell Jordan. This version dominated European club charts, proving the melody's adaptability to electronic dance music.
  • Cultural Appearances: The song has appeared in dozens of films and TV shows, including Ali G Indahouse, Fresh Off the Boat, and Glee. Its presence in these media outlets often serves as shorthand for "90s nostalgia" or "pure celebration."

From the Club to the Pulpit: Montell Jordan’s Evolution

One of the most fascinating aspects of the song’s history is the personal journey of its creator. By the mid-2000s, Montell Jordan began to feel a different calling. Despite his success in the music industry, he felt a void that fame could not fill.

In 2010, Jordan made the surprising announcement that he was leaving the secular music industry. He transitioned into a new role as a worship leader and eventually a minister at Victory World Church in Georgia. Interestingly, he has not disowned his hit song. Instead, he often uses it as a platform to talk about his journey, sometimes performing "clean" or "spiritual" versions of the track to engage with audiences.

Jordan’s ability to transition from a 90s R&B icon to a respected religious leader has added a layer of depth to the song's legacy. It represents a specific chapter of his life—a celebration of his roots and his rise—that he still views with gratitude.

Why does the song still resonate today?

The longevity of "This Is How We Do It" can be attributed to three main factors:

  1. Universal Inclusivity: As Jordan himself has stated, the song is about how everyone does their thing. Whether you are "an O.G. mack or a wannabe player," the song invites you into the party. It is inherently non-exclusionary.
  2. Sonic Perfection: The Slick Rick sample provides a "pre-approved" rhythmic foundation that humans seem biologically wired to enjoy. The groove is undeniable.
  3. The "Feel-Good" Factor: In an era where much of R&B and Hip-Hop can be heavy or aggressive, "This Is How We Do It" remains relentlessly positive. It captures the specific, fleeting joy of a Friday night when the bills are paid, the car is running, and the music is loud.

FAQ: Common Questions About This Is How We Do It

What year did This Is How We Do It come out?

The single was officially released on February 6, 1995, as the lead track for Montell Jordan's debut album of the same name.

What song does This Is How We Do It sample?

The primary sample is from Slick Rick’s 1988 hit "Children's Story." It also interpolates the bassline from "Nautilus" by jazz musician Bob James.

Did Montell Jordan win a Grammy for this song?

While the song was a massive hit and received a nomination for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance at the 38th Annual Grammy Awards, it did not win. However, it won "Best R&B 12-inch" at the International Dance Music Awards.

Is Montell Jordan still making music?

Montell Jordan primarily focuses on gospel and worship music today. He released a book and album titled Becoming Unfamous which chronicles his transition from R&B star to minister.

What is the meaning behind the lyrics?

The song is a celebration of the party culture in South Central Los Angeles. It describes a typical Friday night where the community comes together to enjoy music and life, setting aside the hardships of the neighborhood.

Summary of the Song’s Impact

"This Is How We Do It" is more than just a 90s throwback; it is a masterclass in musical fusion and cultural storytelling. By successfully blending the raw energy of Def Jam's Hip-Hop roots with the polished vocals of an R&B powerhouse, Montell Jordan created a blueprint for the next two decades of urban music. The song’s reliance on a classic Slick Rick sample ensured its familiarity, while its authentic depiction of Los Angeles life gave it a soul that resonated far beyond the borders of California.

Today, the track stands as a testament to a specific era of optimism in R&B. It remains a essential inclusion in any definitive list of the greatest party songs ever recorded. Whether it’s the booming bassline or the inviting "Sha, la, la, la, la, la, lo" intro, "This Is How We Do It" continues to prove that some vibes are truly timeless.