BIOGRAPHY
Jodeci was formed in Charlotte, North Carolina, in 1989. The group consists of two sets of brothers: Cedric "K-Ci" Hailey and Joel "JoJo" Hailey, and Donald "DeVante Swing" DeGrate and Dalvin DeGrate. Their name is a combination of the members' first names: Jo from JoJo, De from DeVante, and Ci from K-Ci.
In 1991, Jodeci released their debut album, "Forever My Lady," which became a major success. The album featured hit singles like "Come and Talk to Me" and the title track "Forever My Lady." Jodeci's music blended soulful R&B vocals with hip-hop beats, marking the emergence of the New Jack Swing sound.
The group's second album, "Diary of a Mad Band" (1993), continued their success with hits like "Cry for You" and "Feenin'." Jodeci's impact on the R&B scene was characterized by their raw and emotional performances, as well as their fusion of traditional R&B with contemporary hip-hop elements.
In 1995, Jodeci released their third album, "The Show, the After Party, the Hotel," which featured tracks like "Freek'n You" and "Love U 4 Life." The album showcased their continued exploration of sensuality and relationships in their music.
Despite their early success, internal issues and individual pursuits led to a hiatus for Jodeci in the late 1990s. The members engaged in solo projects, collaborations, and production work during this period.
In recent years, Jodeci has made comebacks, including performing at various events and releasing new music. Their influence on contemporary R&B and hip-hop artists is evident, with many citing Jodeci as an inspiration.
Jodeci's legacy is celebrated for their soul-stirring ballads, edgy sound, and impact on the New Jack Swing movement. They remain influential figures in the history of R&B and are remembered for their contribution to the evolution of the genre.