BIOGRAPHY
The Deele was formed by producers and songwriters Antonio "L.A." Reid and Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds, who later became major figures in the music industry. The original lineup included lead vocalist Carlos "Satin" Greene, Kevin Roberson, Darnell "Dee" Bristol, Stanley "Stick" Burke, and Bruce Robinson.
The group signed with Solar Records and released their debut album, "Street Beat," in 1983. The album included the single "Body Talk," which became a hit on the R&B charts. The success of "Street Beat" laid the foundation for The Deele's prominence in the R&B scene.
In 1987, The Deele released the album "Material Thangz," which featured one of their biggest hits, "Two Occasions." The ballad, written by Babyface and L.A. Reid, became a chart-topping success and remains a classic in the realm of R&B slow jams.
The Deele's music was characterized by smooth harmonies, soulful ballads, and a blend of R&B and funk influences. Their contributions to the sound of 1980s R&B are notable, particularly through the successful partnership of Babyface and L.A. Reid, who continued to shape the landscape of contemporary R&B.
Despite lineup changes and individual members pursuing other endeavors, The Deele's impact on the music industry endures through their chart-topping hits and their influence on subsequent generations of R&B artists.
Following their success with The Deele, Babyface and L.A. Reid went on to become highly successful producers, songwriters, and executives in the music business, working with numerous artists across various genres. The Deele's legacy is recognized for their contributions to the soulful and romantic side of 1980s R&B.