Blaque

Blaque was an American R&B girl group formed in Atlanta, Georgia, in the late 1990s. Consisting of members Natina Reed, Shamari Fears, and Brandi Williams, Blaque gained prominence with their infectious blend of R&B, pop, and hip-hop. Here are some facts about the group:

1. Formation and Early Success: Blaque was formed in 1996 by the late Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes of TLC, who discovered the group at an Atlanta talent show. Lopes mentored the trio and helped secure them a record deal with Columbia Records. In 1999, Blaque released their self-titled debut album, which spawned the hit singles "808" and "Bring It All to Me". The album was certified platinum and propelled Blaque to mainstream success.

2. Musical Style and Influence: Blaque's music was characterized by its catchy hooks, slick production, and infectious energy. The group's sound blended elements of R&B, hip-hop, and pop, reflecting the musical trends of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Blaque's success helped pave the way for other R&B girl groups of the era and influenced subsequent generations of artists with their urban-pop fusion.

3. Acting and Media Appearances: In addition to their music career, members of Blaque pursued opportunities in acting and media. Natina Reed appeared in films like "Bring It On" and "Honey", while Shamari Fears had a recurring role on the television series "The Real Housewives of Atlanta". The group also made guest appearances on various television shows and contributed music to soundtracks for films and TV shows.

4. Tragic Loss and Disbandment: In 2002, tragedy struck when Natina Reed, one of the founding members of Blaque, was killed in a hit-and-run accident at the age of 32. Reed's untimely death deeply affected the group, and they went on hiatus in the aftermath of the tragedy. While Blaque never officially disbanded, they did not release any new music following Reed's passing, effectively marking the end of their music career as a trio.

5. Legacy and Influence: Despite their relatively short-lived tenure as a group, Blaque left a lasting impact on the R&B and pop music landscape of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Their infectious hits and distinctive style continue to be celebrated by fans of the era, and their music remains a nostalgic favorite for many. Blaque's influence can be heard in the work of contemporary artists who draw inspiration from the vibrant R&B and hip-hop scene of the late 1990s.