Blackstreet
Blackstreet: The Journey of No Diggity and Beyond
Blackstreet, the R&B quartet that soared to fame with their iconic anthem "No Diggity," has etched itself into the annals of music history. Their journey has been marked by remarkable achievements, challenges, and controversies, shaping their legacy as one of the most influential groups of their era.
The Birth of Blackstreet
Blackstreet's inception can be traced back to 1991, when Teddy Riley, the mastermind behind the New Jack Swing movement, assembled a group of five talented singers: Chauncey Hannibal, Dave Hollister, Eric Williams, Everett Braddock, and Mark Middleton. Initially named "Street", they signed with Riley's Uptown Records and released their debut single, "Baby Be Mine," in 1994.
The Breakthrough: "No Diggity"
Their breakthrough came with the release of their sophomore album, "Another Level," in 1996. The album's centerpiece, "No Diggity," became an instant global smash, topping charts worldwide and earning them a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. The song's infectious melody, smooth harmonies, and catchy lyrics cemented Blackstreet's status as one of the most sought-after R&B acts of the time.
Departure and Controversy
Despite the success of "No Diggity," Blackstreet faced internal conflicts that led to the departure of two members: Mark Middleton and Everett Braddock. This was followed by a controversial lawsuit with their record label, Uptown Records, which claimed that Riley had withheld royalties from the group. The legal battle dragged on for several years, casting a shadow over their career.
Continued Success and Hiatus
Undeterred by these challenges, Blackstreet continued to release music, including the albums "Finally" (1999) and "Level II" (2003). They enjoyed continued success with hits like "Don't Leave Me" and "Girlfriend/Boyfriend," further solidifying their place in the R&B landscape. However, after the release of "Level II," the group went on hiatus.
Reunion and Legacy
In 2016, Blackstreet reunited with three of its original members: Chauncey Hannibal, Dave Hollister, and Eric Williams. They embarked on a successful tour and released a new single, "Fix." While they have not released a full-length album since their reunion, they continue to perform and engage with their loyal fanbase.
Discography
* Street (1994)
* Another Level (1996)
* Finally (1999)
* Level II (2003)
Members
* Chauncey Hannibal (lead vocals)
* Dave Hollister (lead vocals)
* Eric Williams (lead vocals, drums)
* Mark Middleton (backing vocals, bass)
* Everett Braddock (backing vocals, keyboards)
Blackstreet, the R&B quartet that soared to fame with their iconic anthem "No Diggity," has etched itself into the annals of music history. Their journey has been marked by remarkable achievements, challenges, and controversies, shaping their legacy as one of the most influential groups of their era.
The Birth of Blackstreet
Blackstreet's inception can be traced back to 1991, when Teddy Riley, the mastermind behind the New Jack Swing movement, assembled a group of five talented singers: Chauncey Hannibal, Dave Hollister, Eric Williams, Everett Braddock, and Mark Middleton. Initially named "Street", they signed with Riley's Uptown Records and released their debut single, "Baby Be Mine," in 1994.
The Breakthrough: "No Diggity"
Their breakthrough came with the release of their sophomore album, "Another Level," in 1996. The album's centerpiece, "No Diggity," became an instant global smash, topping charts worldwide and earning them a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. The song's infectious melody, smooth harmonies, and catchy lyrics cemented Blackstreet's status as one of the most sought-after R&B acts of the time.
Departure and Controversy
Despite the success of "No Diggity," Blackstreet faced internal conflicts that led to the departure of two members: Mark Middleton and Everett Braddock. This was followed by a controversial lawsuit with their record label, Uptown Records, which claimed that Riley had withheld royalties from the group. The legal battle dragged on for several years, casting a shadow over their career.
Continued Success and Hiatus
Undeterred by these challenges, Blackstreet continued to release music, including the albums "Finally" (1999) and "Level II" (2003). They enjoyed continued success with hits like "Don't Leave Me" and "Girlfriend/Boyfriend," further solidifying their place in the R&B landscape. However, after the release of "Level II," the group went on hiatus.
Reunion and Legacy
In 2016, Blackstreet reunited with three of its original members: Chauncey Hannibal, Dave Hollister, and Eric Williams. They embarked on a successful tour and released a new single, "Fix." While they have not released a full-length album since their reunion, they continue to perform and engage with their loyal fanbase.
Discography
* Street (1994)
* Another Level (1996)
* Finally (1999)
* Level II (2003)
Members
* Chauncey Hannibal (lead vocals)
* Dave Hollister (lead vocals)
* Eric Williams (lead vocals, drums)
* Mark Middleton (backing vocals, bass)
* Everett Braddock (backing vocals, keyboards)