II Tru

II Tru was an American R&B duo comprised of singers LaVonn Battle and Deah Dame. Active in the late 1990s and early 2000s, II Tru gained recognition for their smooth harmonies, soulful vocals, and poignant lyrics. Here are five key facts about II Tru:

1. Formation and Early Career: II Tru was formed in the mid-1990s in Oakland, California. The duo consisted of childhood friends LaVonn "Budda" Battle and Deah "Deah Dame" Dame, who shared a passion for music from a young age. Drawing inspiration from R&B and soul artists of the time, II Tru began writing and recording their own songs, honing their craft and developing their signature sound.

2. Signing with No Limit Records: II Tru caught the attention of Master P, the founder of No Limit Records, one of the most prominent hip-hop labels of the late 1990s. Impressed by their talent and potential, Master P signed II Tru to No Limit Records, providing them with a platform to showcase their music to a larger audience. II Tru's affiliation with No Limit Records helped elevate their profile in the R&B and hip-hop scenes.

3. Album Releases and Hit Singles: II Tru released their debut album, "Da Crime Family", in 1999 under No Limit Records. The album featured collaborations with other No Limit artists, including Master P, Silkk the Shocker, and C-Murder. "Da Crime Family" spawned several hit singles, including "Ballers", "Hustlers", and "Ride", which received airplay on urban radio stations and MTV. The album's commercial success further solidified II Tru's status as rising stars in the R&B and hip-hop world.

4. Impact and Legacy: II Tru's music resonated with fans of R&B and hip-hop, particularly those who appreciated smooth harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and infectious beats. The duo's songs often explored themes of love, struggle, and perseverance, reflecting their own experiences and the realities of life in urban America. While II Tru's time in the spotlight was relatively short-lived, their impact on the music industry and their dedicated fanbase endure as part of the legacy of No Limit Records and the late 1990s hip-hop/R&B era.

5. Disbandment and Later Endeavors: Despite their early success, II Tru's career was cut short when LaVonn Battle tragically passed away in 2003. His untimely death marked the end of II Tru as a duo, leaving behind a legacy of soulful music and cherished memories for fans. Following II Tru's disbandment, Deah Dame pursued other musical endeavors while also honoring the memory of his former partner. Though their time together was brief, II Tru's impact on R&B and hip-hop music continues to be remembered and celebrated by fans of the genre.