Amidst the vibrant tapestry of R&B history, the vocal group After 7 stands as a beacon of soulful melodies and enduring harmony. Their iconic ballad "Ready or Not" catapulted them to stardom in 1989, establishing them as pioneers of the urban contemporary genre.
Formation and Early Days:
After 7 emerged from the heart of Houston, Texas, in 1987. The group's original lineup consisted of Kevon Edmonds, Danny DeGrate, Gerald Levert, and Melvin Edmonds, all of whom shared a deep passion for music. Their initial performances at local talent shows honed their vocal skills and stage presence.
Signing with Virgin Records:
In 1989, After 7's undeniable talent caught the attention of Virgin Records. The label signed the group and released their debut album, "After 7," which featured the smash hit "Ready or Not." The song topped the R&B charts for several weeks and became an instant classic, earning them widespread recognition and critical acclaim.
Challenges and Controversies:
Despite their early success, After 7 faced its share of challenges. In 1996, tragedy struck when Gerald Levert passed away from natural causes. His untimely death shook the music world and left a profound void in the group.
The aftermath of Levert's passing brought forth a period of uncertainty and personal struggles for the remaining members. However, their unwavering determination to continue their musical journey prevailed.
Lineup Changes and New Chapters:
In the wake of Levert's passing, After 7 underwent a series of lineup changes. Kevon Edmonds and Danny DeGrate left the group in 1997, with Melvin Edmonds remaining as the sole original member.
The group welcomed new members, including Donell Jones, Jason Edmonds, and Marc Nelson. With this refreshed lineup, After 7 released several more successful albums, including "Reflections" (1999) and "The Very Best of After 7" (2000).
Discography:
Over the course of their illustrious career, After 7 has released numerous albums that have left an indelible mark on the R&B landscape. Their discography includes:
* After 7 (1989) * Takin' My Time (1992) * Reflections (1999) * The Very Best of After 7 (2000) * Time Is on Our Side (2002) * Forever Your Girl (2008)
Legacy and Impact:
After 7's legacy as one of the most influential R&B groups of their era remains firmly established. Their signature harmonies, smooth vocals, and timeless melodies have captivated generations of music lovers.
The group's contributions to the genre have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including:
* Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal for "Ready or Not" (1990) * Soul Train Music Award for Best R&B/Soul Single – Group, Band or Duo for "Ready or Not" (1990) * American Music Award for Favorite Soul/R&B Band/Duo/Group (1993)
Throughout their journey, After 7 has faced adversity with resilience and determination. Their unwavering commitment to their craft has ensured their enduring success as an iconic group that continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.