Latest news with #Xscape
Black America Web
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Black America Web
Where My Girls At?: R&B Girl Groups You Forgot About
We always talk about the slew of nostalgic boy bands and groups, but we never talk about the girls… There was something magical about the girl group era of the 90s and early 2000s. Labels were still investing in artist development, videos stayed on rotation for weeks, and every crew had their own style. Some groups dropped timeless singles that still get love at the clubs, while others faded before getting some shine. RELATED: 11 Living Legends Who Deserve Their Flowers These weren't just singers, they were whole personalities. You could tell who the lead was before they even hit the hook. And the fashions? It used to be a masterclass on 'one band, one sound' outfits with just enough individuality to stand out. But as the music scene shifted, a lot of these groups got lost in the shuffle. Maybe their label folded. Maybe the sound changed. Sometimes there was internal conflict amongst the girls. Maybe the public just wasn't ready for what they were bringing. Still, their records sit in glove boxes and old CD collections waiting to be played again. We all remember TLC, Xscape, SWV, and Blaque… but what about these girls? Let's take a trip down memory lane… Where My Girls At?: R&B Girl Groups You Forgot About was originally published on 1. Cleopatra A British R&B/pop group made up of sisters Cleo, Yonah, and Zainam Higgins. Signed to Madonna's Maverick Records in the late 90s, they are remembered for their 1998 debut single 'Cleopatra's Theme.' 2. MoKenStef A Los Angeles R&B trio consisting of Monifa, Kenya, and Stephanie. Signed to Outburst Records, they scored a hit in 1995 with the single 'He's Mine.' 3. 3LW A female R&B trio consisting of Adrienne Bailon, Kiely Williams, and Naturi Naughton. The group debuted in 2000 under Epic Records and is best known for the singles 'No More (Baby I'ma Do Right)' and 'Playas Gon' Play.' 4. Drama A female R&B trio from the 90s consisting of Regina Craig, Thea Norman, and Malinda Jenkins. Signed to Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis' Perspective Records, they were discovered by Gerald LeVert, who helped produce their 1997 debut album, 'Open Invitation'. 5. Willie Max A Detroit-based R&B trio of sisters Rose, Sky, and Lyric Williams. Signed to Raphael Saadiq's Pookie Records in the late 90s, they released the single 'Can't Get Enough' in 1998. 6. Gyrl A teen R&B group featuring Jamila, Miyoko, and Paulette Maxwell. Associated with Immature/IMx in the mid-90s, they are known for their 1995 single 'Play Another Slow Jam.' 7. Assorted Phlavors A female R&B quartet made up of LaKisha Johnson, Julia Garrison, Tiffany Phinazee, and Antonia Bryant. Known for blending R&B, jazz, and hip-hop, they recorded songs including 'Be Patient,' 'Tell Me,' and 'Don't Let Go.' 8. Jade A female R&B trio made up of Tonya Kelly, Joi Marshall, and Di Reed. Signed to Giant Records, they broke out in 1992 with the hit 'Don't Walk Away' from their debut album Jade to the Max. 9. Allure An R&B quartet consisting of Alia Davis, Linnie Belcher, Lalisha McLean, and Akissa Mendez. Signed to Mariah Carey's Crave Records in the late 90s, they are best known for 'All Cried Out' with 112. 10. For Real A female R&B quartet featuring Josina Elder, Necia Bray, Wendi Williams, and LaTanyia Baldwin. Signed to A&M Records in the mid-90s, they gained recognition with 'Love Will Be Waiting at Home' from Waiting to Exhale. 11. Isyss An R&B quartet featuring La'Myia Good, LeTecia Harrison, Ardena Clark, and Quierra Davis-Martin. Signed to Arista Records in the early 2000s, they are remembered for 'Day & Night' featuring Jadakiss and 'Single for the Rest of My Life'. 12. JS A sister duo consisting of Kim and Kandy Johnson. Mentored by R. Kelly and signed to Interscope Records, they released 'Ice Cream' in 2003. Kandy is currently married to Ron Isley. 13. Cherish An Atlanta-based R&B group made up of sisters Farrah, Neosha, Felisha, and Fallon King. Signed to Capitol Records, they gained mainstream success in 2006 with 'Do It to It.' 14. Nina Sky Identical twin sisters Natalie & Nicole Albino. Signed to Next Plateau/Universal Records, they broke through in 2004 with the Reggaeton-infused hit 'Move Ya Body.' 15. TG4 A teen R&B quartet consisting of Sevyn Streeter, Keisha Henry, Davida Williams, and Ashley Gallo. Signed to T.U.G./A&M Records in the early 2000s, they released the single 'Virginity' in 2002. 16. KP & Envyi An R&B/hip-hop duo consisting of Khia Phillips (KP) and Susan Hedgepeth (Envyi). Signed to EastWest Records, they scored a major (and timeless) hit in 1998 with 'Swing My Way.'
Black America Web
06-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Black America Web
R&B Royalty Returns: Xscape & NEXT Rock VyStar Amphitheater
Source: Courtesy / VyStar Amphitheater Over the weekend, the VyStar Amphitheater at The Bridge lit up with hometown pride as R&B royalty Xscape returned to the stage for a soul-stirring, sold-out show. Read more inside. On Saturday (July 26), Xscape gave fans the R&B nostalgia they missed. The concert was originally postponed due to inclement weather, but it transformed into a triumphant celebration of Black music, legacy, and Atlanta excellence. For the fans who waited patiently, the payoff was pure magic. Kandi Burruss, Tameka 'Tiny' Harris, and sisters LaTocha and Tamika Scott took the stage in Stockbridge, Georgia with unmatched energy, reminding the crowd exactly why they have remained one of the most iconic girl groups in music history. From the moment the opening chords of 'Just Kickin' It' dropped, the crowd was on its feet. Fans were singing, dancing, and reliving the golden era of '90s R&B. The group's chemistry was electric, their vocals razor sharp, and their connection to the audience palpable. We care about your data. See our privacy policy. The night reached emotional highs with fan favorites like 'My Little Secret' and 'Understanding,' before closing with a moving rendition of 'Who Can I Run To' that had the entire amphitheater singing along under the Georgia stars. Adding even more heat to the night were R&B legends NEXT, who served as the evening's special guests. The trio turned up the nostalgia with timeless hits like 'Wifey,' 'Too Close,' and 'Butta Love,' proving they still have the charm and vocals that first made them fan favorites. The event was a community celebration. Sponsored by VyStar Amphitheater, Aflac, Piedmont Henry, Visit Henry County, and the City of Stockbridge, the night underscored the power of music to bring people together. It also spotlighted Stockbridge as a vibrant hub for live entertainment and cultural connection. Fans left buzzing with joy, hearts full, and playlists ready to stream Xscape and NEXT on repeat. R&B is alive, well, and thriving in Georgia. SEE ALSO R&B Royalty Returns: Xscape & NEXT Rock VyStar Amphitheater was originally published on
USA Today
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Jermaine Dupri honoring Quincy Jones at Essence Festival: See list of performers
Jermaine Dupri is gearing up to take over the Essence Festival of Culture stage to honor his late friend, mentor and music icon Quincy Jones in New Orleans this weekend. "This is the Blackest festival that we have in America, and I feel like Quincy is the greatest Black producer of American Black music," Dupri previously told USA TODAY. The So So Def founder's "Essence Flowers" tribute is scheduled for Sunday, July 6, at the Caesars Superdome and will feature R&B and hip hop powerhouses. Here's what we know about Jermaine Dupri's upcoming set at Essence Fest: Jermaine Dupri: On the key to a hit record, Quincy Jones and his 'tribute of all tributes' List of performers Dupri's tribute will include performances from musical acts who sampled Quincy Jones' hit songs. For instance, MC Lyte's and Xscape's 90s hit record, "Keep On, Keepin' On", sampled Michael Jackson's "Liberian Girl," which was co-produced by Jones. "That's what I'm going to do in my set; I'm going to make you realize that you might not even realize how much Quincy Jones you have listened to," he said. How to get tickets to Essence Festival Essence Festival of Culture will be held from July 4 to July 6 in New Orleans. Tickets for the concerts are available on Ticketmaster. The three-day bundle is currently sold out, but single-day tickets are still available. For July 6, the night Jermaine Dupri is performing, tickets are as low as $82. The panoramic performance will be an educational "tribute of all tributes," showing "the importance of Quincy and who he was to me and who I am as a producer standing across from him," Dupri said. Taylor Ardrey is a news reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach her at tardrey@
USA Today
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Jermaine Dupri on the key to a hit record, Quincy Jones and his 'tribute of all tributes'
Jermaine Dupri on the key to a hit record, Quincy Jones and his 'tribute of all tributes' Show Caption Hide Caption Jermaine Dupri to pay tribute to music titan Quincy Jones at ESSENCE Rapper Jermaine Dupri gives a sneak peak into his Quincy Jones tribute set list that features Xscape, MC Lyte and many more. When the illustrious music titan Quincy Jones passed away at the age of 91 last November, Jermaine Dupri acknowledged him as someone who gave him "much more confidence about music and life." The two hit it off when they first met. "He called me his little brother, and I was always at his house," in Los Angeles, Dupri recalled. They chatted over homemade hamburgers, and Jones inspired him in his journey to become vegan. "A lot of the conversations we had, they'll stick with me for the rest of my life." For the esteemed producer, rapper, and So So Def founder, Jones's widely acclaimed career − which ranged from being a part of notable films, working on classic records with legends and his partnership with the King of Pop Michael Jackson − was his blueprint: "I patterned myself after him in my own way," he said. 'Tribute of all tributes' This July, Dupri is poised to honor Jones' influence and legendary catalog at this year's Essence Festival of Culture in New Orleans. He intends to put his all on the stage. "This is the Blackest festival that we have in America, and I feel like Quincy is the greatest Black producer of American Black music," Dupri told USA TODAY. "I wanted something that translated to the generation of people that I feel like my music is made for and a younger audience." The panoramic performance will be an educational "tribute of all tributes," showing "the importance of Quincy and who he was to me and who I am as a producer standing across from him," he added. Essence Fest: Performers announced for 2025: Dates, tickets, hosts, what to know What to expect during Dupri's 'ESSENCE Flowers' tribute Included in Dupri's setlist is the late 90s gold-certified record "Keep On, Keepin' On" with MC Lyte and Xscape. It sampled Michael Jackson's "Liberian Girl," which was co-produced by Jones. The song was the perfect blend to create a radio smash for the rap pioneer and chart-topping girl group he discovered. "If you hear MC Lyte's version, you might not realize that it's 'Liberian Girl,'" Dupri stated. "That's what I'm going to do in my set; I'm going to make you realize that you might not even realize how much Quincy Jones you have listened to." Other additions to the tribute are the iconic R&B trio SWV, who added their twist to Jones' production on Jackson's "Human Nature" for their beloved debut hit "Right Here." Rap powerhouses The Pharcyde and Mobb Deep's contribution to the performance would underscore how Jones' work was heavily sampled in hip-hop culture. Singer Al B. Sure!, a feature on Jones' 1989 "The Secret Garden (Sweet Seduction Suite)," and other vocalists like Tyrese and Robin Thicke, who were a part of the modern, up-tempo version with Dupri's magic touch decades later, will also take the stage. The 2010 remake came at a time when "Quincy gave young producers the opportunity to take one of his songs and remix it," Dupri stated. It was included on Jones' final album, "Q: Soul Bossa Nostra," made up of contemporary renditions of his classic hits from acts spanning multiple genres. Thicke also appeared in a reimagining of Jackson's "P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)" on the same project. Great modern artists do their homework, Dupri says Dupri is a force in his own right and has a prowess for creating timeless music, like Jones. He has worked with the greats, from Usher to Ludacris to Mariah Carey. In recent years, the Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee has collaborated with rising stars like Dvsn on 2022's "If I Get Caught." Dupri announced that he had signed the Canadian R&B duo to his record label this week. Dupri also worked with singer Ari Lennox, co-producing one of her latest songs, "Soft Girl Era." He also caught a massive hit with Muni Long's ballad "Made For Me," which became a TikTok sensation and secured the vocalist a Grammy Award for the "Live On BET" version. He said their sole studio session was a breeze because Long was knowledgeable. "It's really about going in the studio with talented people that listen and pay attention to the elements that have created songs that are bigger than the songs that they make," Dupri said. Some of those elements to make a hit of that caliber that are missing from today's musical climate are a well-versed producer and a studied artist, according to Dupri. He recently initiated discourse online when he argued that the youth in the current state of R&B lack the traditional church influence. Dupri further clarified his point: "You can go in your room and make a song and get on the charts. That's amazing, but the simplicity of it at some point doesn't live up to the extraordinary space that I know I grew up listening to. People don't understand how important having these pieces in the studio with you are." Taylor Ardrey is a news reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach her at tardrey@
Yahoo
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
The Notorious B.I.G. Allegedly Apologized for Xscape Diss Before Death, Says Tiny Harris
The Notorious B.I.G. allegedly made amends with Xscape before his death. In an interview with The Morning Hustle on Wednesday, April 30, Tameka "Tiny" Harris and Kandi Burruss of the R&B girl group recalled how the rapper — born Christopher George Latore Wallace and also known as Biggie Smalls — apologized to them before his death after previously insulting their looks on his 1994 single "Just Playing (Dreams)." On the track, Biggie hurled insults and named the sexual acts he wanted to engage in with several celebrities, including Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Jasmine Guy and Xscape. Related: Who Killed the Notorious B.I.G.? Inside the Rapper's Shocking Murder 28 Years Ago "I'll f--- RuPaul before I f--- them ugly-a-- Xscape bitches," he raps on the track. According to Harris, 49, and Burruss, 48, Biggie allegedly apologized at a 1997 Soul Train Awards afterparty. 'Somebody came, I don't know if it was Diddy, somebody came and said, 'Biggie wanna speak to y'all,'' said Harris. 'I was just like, 'I'm going to see what he's talking about.'' She added: 'And you know, he was very nice, he was very apologetic and he basically said, 'I don't know what I was thinking. Look, I'm ugly as hell. Y'all is beautiful, and I just wanted to say I apologize for whatever.'' According to Harris, the most shocking part was that Biggie allegedly died 'probably 20, 30 minutes after that.' 'It was great to hear that he acknowledged that he was wrong," she concluded. is now available in the Apple App Store! Download it now for the most binge-worthy celeb content, exclusive video clips, astrology updates and more! Related: Notorious B.I.G.'s Mom Voletta Wallace Declares She Wants to 'Slap the Daylights Out of Sean Combs' Biggie was killed when he was 24 years old, but he had already established himself as a rap legend. The Brooklyn-born musician released his debut album Ready to Die in 1994 and posthumously released Life After Death in 1997. The latter is one of the only hip-hop albums to sell 10 million copies and reach diamond status. On March 9, 1997, Biggie was leaving a Soul Train Awards afterparty when he was shot and killed by an assailant in a black Chevy Impala. His murder is closely linked to the killing of fellow '90s hip-hop superstar Tupac Shakur, as the two were involved in a battle where Biggie represented the East Coast and Tupac the West. Read the original article on People
