[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 103 (Thursday, June 18, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E587]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING EDWARD THEODORE ``TEDDY'' RILEY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ANDRE CARSON

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 18, 2026

  Mr. CARSON. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Edward Theodore 
``Teddy'' Riley, a visionary musician, producer, songwriter, and 
innovator whose extraordinary contributions to American music have left 
an indelible mark on generations of artists and listeners around the 
world. Mr. Riley will be celebrated during this year's Juneteenth 
commemoration at Indianapolis' historic Madam C.J. Walker Legacy Center 
located in the 7th Congressional District, which I'm honored to 
represent here in Congress.
  Teddy Riley began as a child prodigy and was playing instruments in 
church and working in recording studios as a teenager. Few artists can 
claim to have created an entirely new musical genre, launched the 
careers of future superstars, influenced generations of musicians 
around the world, and helped to redefine popular music. Teddy Riley has 
accomplished all four.
  Widely recognized as the creator of New Jack Swing, Teddy Riley 
revolutionized popular music by blending the rhythmic energy of hip-hop 
with the soulful melodies of R&B. He helped define the sound of an era 
and transformed the landscape of contemporary music through his 
creativity and pioneering spirit. His influence can be heard in 
countless recordings and continues to shape artists across genres to 
this day.
  Over a career spanning more than four decades, Mr. Riley produced, 
wrote, and performed some of the most iconic songs in modern music. His 
work with legendary artists helped launch chart-topping hits and 
platinum-selling albums, including collaborations with Michael Jackson 
(``Remember the Time'' and ``Dangerous''), Bobby Brown (``My 
Prerogative''), Keith Sweat, Stevie Wonder, Doug E. Fresh, Kool Moe 
Dee, and many others. As a founding member of the acclaimed groups Guy 
and Blackstreet, he further cemented his place in music history with 
timeless classics that remain beloved by audiences around the world, 
including his Grammy Award-winning hit ``No Diggity''.
  Beyond his commercial success, Teddy Riley's legacy is one of 
innovation, mentorship, and artistic excellence. His groundbreaking 
production techniques helped bridge musical genres, expand creative 
possibilities for future generations, and elevate the cultural impact 
of Black music throughout the world. His contributions have earned him 
widespread acclaim, including two Grammy Awards, the Soul Train Award, 
the Hip-Hop Hall of Fame, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He 
is recognized as one of the most influential producers in modern music 
history.
  Mr. Speaker, Teddy Riley's remarkable career stands as a testament to 
the power of creativity, perseverance, and innovation. As he is 
celebrated during this Juneteenth in Indianapolis, I ask my colleagues 
to join me in recognizing his extraordinary achievements and enduring 
contributions today to American music and culture.

                          ____________________