Boyz II Men
Biography
Boyz II Men is an American R&B vocal group from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, recognized for their emotional ballads and a cappella harmonies. The group was formed in 1985 at the Philadelphia High School for the Creative and Performing Arts. Originally a quintet, the group gained international fame as a quartet featuring Nathan Morris, Wanyá Morris, Shawn Stockman, and Michael McCary. Their name was inspired by the New Edition song "Boys to Men".
Rise to Fame
In 1989, the group had a pivotal encounter with Michael Bivins of New Edition, who was impressed by their a cappella performance of "Can You Stand the Rain". Bivins signed on to manage and produce the group, which led to a record deal with Motown Records. Before they achieved mainstream success, founding member Marc Nelson departed due to personality conflicts, solidifying the classic four-man lineup.
Their debut album, Cooleyhighharmony, was released in 1991. It was a massive success, selling over nine million copies and earning a Grammy Award. The album featured hit singles like "Motownphilly" and a cover of "It's So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday". The group's 1992 single, "End of the Road," set a new record by spending 13 weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100.
Peak of Success
Boyz II Men's sophomore album, II, released in 1994, was an even greater commercial success, selling over 12 million copies in the United States. The album featured the number-one singles "I'll Make Love to You" and "On Bended Knee". When "On Bended Knee" replaced "I'll Make Love to You" at the top of the charts, Boyz II Men became only the third act, after The Beatles and Elvis Presley, to replace themselves at number one. In 1995, their collaboration with Mariah Carey, "One Sweet Day," spent a record-breaking 16 weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100.
Throughout their career, the group has sold over 60 million albums worldwide. They have won four Grammy Awards, nine American Music Awards, nine Soul Train Awards, and three Billboard Awards.
Musical Style
Boyz II Men is known for their smooth vocal harmonies that draw from classic soul and doo-wop traditions, blended with a contemporary R&B sensibility. They dubbed their early style "hip-hop doo-wop". The group was heavily influenced by artists such as New Edition, The Temptations, and Stevie Wonder. They, in turn, have influenced many contemporary R&B artists like Usher and Justin Timberlake.
Later Career and Legacy
In 2003, bass singer Michael McCary left the group due to health issues, specifically multiple sclerosis. The remaining members, Nathan Morris, Wanyá Morris, and Shawn Stockman, have continued to perform as a trio. They have released several albums, including collections of cover songs like Throwback, Vol. 1 (2004) and original material such as Twenty (2011) and Collide (2014). The group has also enjoyed a successful residency in Las Vegas. Boyz II Men's contributions to music were recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.