Dalvin DeGrate

R&B Singer and Musician: Dalvin DeGrate is an American R&B singer, songwriter, and musician best known as a member of the iconic R&B group Jodeci. Born Dalvin Ertimus DeGrate on July 23, 1971, in Hampton, Virginia, he rose to fame in the 1990s as part of the groundbreaking quartet known for their soulful harmonies, innovative production, and sensual ballads.

Founding Member of Jodeci: Dalvin DeGrate, along with his brother DeVante Swing (Donald DeGrate Jr.), and fellow singers K-Ci (Cedric Hailey) and JoJo (Joel Hailey), formed Jodeci in the late 1980s. The group quickly made a name for themselves with their debut album, "Forever My Lady" (1991), which featured the hit singles "Come & Talk to Me" and the title track "Forever My Lady". Jodeci's fusion of R&B, hip-hop, and gospel influences set them apart and established them as pioneers of the New Jack Swing era.

Multi-Instrumentalist and Producer: In addition to his vocal talents, Dalvin DeGrate is also a skilled musician and producer, proficient in playing various instruments, including the keyboard, guitar, and drums. His musical versatility and production skills played a significant role in shaping Jodeci's sound and contributed to the group's success. DeGrate's contributions as a producer can be heard on several Jodeci albums, as well as on projects for other artists in the R&B and hip-hop genres.

Solo Career and Collaborations: After Jodeci's initial success, Dalvin DeGrate pursued a solo career, releasing his debut solo album, "Met.A.Mor.Phic", in 2000. The album showcased his musical range and featured collaborations with artists such as Timbaland, Method Man, and 2Pac. Although his solo career did not achieve the same level of commercial success as Jodeci, DeGrate continued to collaborate with other artists and remained active in the music industry.

Legacy and Influence: Dalvin DeGrate's contributions to R&B music as a member of Jodeci have left an indelible mark on the genre. Jodeci's groundbreaking fusion of R&B, hip-hop, and gospel influences paved the way for future generations of artists and helped shape the sound of contemporary R&B. DeGrate's talent as a vocalist, musician, and producer continues to be celebrated by fans of R&B music, ensuring that his legacy as a member of one of the most influential groups in R&B history will endure for years to come.