Jade

Jade was an American R&B and new jack swing group formed in Chicago in the late 1980s. Comprising Tonya Kelly, Joi Marshall, and Di Reed, Jade gained popularity in the early 1990s with their soulful harmonies, catchy melodies, and energetic performances. Here are some key facts about Jade:

1. Formation and Early Career: Jade was formed in 1989 by Tonya Kelly, Joi Marshall, and Di Reed, who were classmates at Chicago's Academy of Scholastic Achievement. The trio shared a passion for music and began performing together, blending their powerful voices and dynamic stage presence to create a unique sound. Their talent and charisma quickly caught the attention of music industry executives, leading to a record deal with Giant Records.

2. Breakthrough Success with "Don't Walk Away": Jade achieved breakthrough success with their debut single, "Don't Walk Away", released in 1992. The song became an instant hit, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and topping the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. "Don't Walk Away" showcased Jade's signature blend of R&B and new jack swing, featuring infectious rhythms, lush harmonies, and a memorable chorus. The success of the single propelled Jade into the spotlight and established them as one of the leading R&B acts of the early 1990s.

3. Album Releases and Chart Success: Following the success of "Don't Walk Away", Jade released their debut album, "Jade to the Max", later that year. The album was well-received by both fans and critics, reaching platinum status and spawning additional hit singles such as "I Wanna Love You", "One Woman", and "Looking for Mr. Do Right". Jade's infectious grooves, soulful vocals, and catchy melodies resonated with audiences, earning them a dedicated fan base and further cementing their status as chart-topping R&B divas.

4. Continued Impact and Legacy: Jade continued to release music and tour throughout the 1990s, building on the success of their debut album. They released two more albums, "Mind, Body & Song" (1994) and "With All My Heart" (1997), which featured a mix of R&B ballads, uptempo jams, and infectious dance tracks. While their commercial success waned in later years, Jade's influence on the R&B and new jack swing genres remained significant, and their music continued to be celebrated by fans of 90s R&B.

5. Individual Pursuits and Reunion: After the release of their third album, members of Jade pursued individual endeavors in music and other fields. Tonya Kelly and Joi Marshall pursued songwriting and production careers, while Di Reed explored acting and entrepreneurship. In 2018, Jade reunited for a performance at the R&B Rewind Festival in Atlantic City, New Jersey, delighting fans with their classic hits and nostalgic vibes. Though they may no longer be active as a group, Jade's music remains a cherished part of 90s R&B nostalgia, ensuring that their legacy lives on for future generations to enjoy.