News
Unsung, April 7, 328 TV One, “Blaque”
In a brand new episode of Unsung, airing on Sunday, April 7 at 9:00 PM on TV One, the spotlight shines on the influential music group Blaque.
Blaque, the American girl group, rose to fame in the late 1990s with their chart-topping hits, including the platinum-certified single “808.” Despite their success, the group’s journey was marked by tragic setbacks, including the death of founding member Natina Reed.
The group, originally known as Blaque Ivory outside the US, was formed in 1996 by Natina Reed, who was later joined by high school friend Shamari Fears and Brandi Williams. Their name, an acronym for “Believing in Life and Achieving a Quest for Unity in Everything,” reflected their positive message.
With the support of TLC’s Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, who signed them to her production company, Blaque released their self-titled debut album in 1999. The album sold over 1.5 million copies and was certified Platinum, spawning hits like “808” and “Bring It All to Me.”
Blaque’s success continued with their involvement in the 2000 film Bring It On, starring Gabrielle Union, and the release of their second album, Blaque Out, in 2001. However, tragedy struck in 2002 with the death of their mentor, Lisa Lopes, in a car accident. The group disbanded in 2004, but attempted a comeback in 2012, which was cut short by Reed’s accidental death.
Reed, an American singer, rapper, and actress, was born in New York City and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. She began her music career in her early teens, writing songs and jingles. Her talent caught the attention of Lisa Lopes, who signed her as a writer for TLC. Reed’s skills led to her forming Blaque, with Fears and Williams completing the trio.
Blaque’s music blended R&B, pop, and hip-hop influences, with their sound described as “universal.” Their debut album, produced by Dallas Austin, featured collaborations with Missy Elliott and Queen Latifah. The group’s success earned them a spot as an opening act for NSYNC and TLC’s FanMail Tour in 1999.
Despite their initial success, Blaque faced challenges with their subsequent albums. Their second album, Blaque Out, was released in 2001 but failed to match the impact of their debut. Their third album, Torch, was never officially released due to creative differences and label issues.
In 2004, Reed left the group to pursue a solo career and focus on acting. The remaining members, Fears and Williams, continued as a duo, but their attempts at a reunion were hindered by personal setbacks. Reed passed away in 2012, struck by a car in Georgia. She was 32 years old and survived by her son, Tren Brown, fathered by rapper Kurupt.
Blaque’s legacy includes their chart-topping hits, their impact on the late ’90s and early 2000s music scene, and their influence on girl groups that followed. Their story is one of both triumph and tragedy, showcasing the highs and lows of the music industry.
Tune in to TV One on Sunday, April 7 at 9:00 PM as Unsung uncovers the inspiring story of Blaque.