HONORING EDWARD THEODORE "TEDDY" RILEY

On 2026-06-18, Representative André Carson (D-IN-7) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING EDWARD THEODORE "TEDDY" RILEY" in the House.

HONORING EDWARD THEODORE "TEDDY" RILEY

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 103 (Thursday, June 18, 2026) [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. ____________________