Blackstreet

Biography

Blackstreet is an American R&B group formed in 1991 by producer Teddy Riley, a key figure in the creation of the new jack swing genre, and Chauncey "Black" Hannibal. The group was one of the most popular R&B vocal groups of the 1990s.

Formation and Debut

After the breakup of his previous group Guy, Teddy Riley decided to form a new quartet. The initial lineup included Riley, Hannibal, Levi Little, and Joseph Stonestreet. Stonestreet was later replaced by Dave Hollister before the release of their first album. The group's name is a combination of Chauncey's nickname "Black" and Stonestreet's last name. Their first single, "Baby Be Mine," was featured on the soundtrack for the 1993 movie *CB4*. In 1994, Blackstreet released their self-titled debut album, *Blackstreet*. The album was a platinum-selling success, propelled by singles like "Before I Let You Go," "Booti Call," and "Joy."

Breakthrough with 'Another Level'

Following the debut album, both Dave Hollister and Levi Little left the group and were replaced by Mark Middleton and Eric Williams. This new lineup recorded what would become their most successful album, *Another Level*, released in 1996. The album's lead single, "No Diggity," featuring Dr. Dre and Queen Pen, became a massive international hit. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in November 1996 and won a Grammy Award in 1998 for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. The album *Another Level* went on to sell over four million copies and solidified Blackstreet's status as R&B superstars. The success of the album also led to collaborations with other artists, including Jay-Z on "The City Is Mine" and Mýa and Mase on the hit "Take Me There" from the *Rugrats* movie soundtrack.

Later Years and Lineup Changes

Blackstreet's third album, *Finally*, was released in 1999. While it featured the successful single "Girlfriend/Boyfriend" with Janet Jackson, Ja Rule, and Eve, the album did not match the commercial success of its predecessor, and the group disbanded shortly after its release due to internal conflicts.

The group reformed to release the album *Level II* in 2003, with Mark Middleton and Eric Williams returning to the lineup. Over the years, Blackstreet has seen several lineup changes and periods of inactivity, with members pursuing solo projects. However, in 2014, it was announced that former members Chauncey "Black" Hannibal, Levi Little, Mark Middleton, and Eric Williams were reuniting under the Blackstreet name and continue to perform.