Blackstreet

Blackstreet, an American R&B group, was founded in 1991 by Chauncey “Black” Hannibal and Teddy Riley. The group released four albums through Interscope Records between 1994 and 2003, achieving notable commercial success. Their debut album, “Blackstreet” (1994), included singles “Booti Call” and “Before I Let You Go,” both reaching the Top 40, with “Before I Let You Go” entering the Top 10. The group’s lineup saw changes; Joseph Stonestreet was an early member (1991–1994), and Dave Hollister and Levi Little were part of initial formations, with Mark Middleton and Eric Williams joining later.

The year 1996 marked a significant period for Blackstreet with the release of their second album, “Another Level.” This album featured the single “No Diggity,” which included contributions from Dr. Dre. “No Diggity” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in November 1996 and contributed to “Another Level” achieving four times platinum status in the United States and peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard chart. In 1998, Blackstreet received a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. The group also collaborated on “The City Is Mine” with Jay-Z and recorded “Take Me There” with Mýa and Mase for the Rugrats soundtrack. Following these successes, Blackstreet had another top ten album with “Finally,” which included the single “Girlfriend/Boyfriend,” a collaboration with Janet Jackson.

After a period of individual pursuits, Blackstreet re-formed with Chauncey “Black” Hannibal, Levi Little, Mark Middleton, and Eric Williams, and has continued to perform. In 2003, they released the album “Level II.” Joseph Stonestreet, an original member, passed away in 2018 at the age of 56. Middleton and Williams provided backing vocals for North Macedonia’s entry “Autumn Leaves” in the Eurovision Song Contest 2015. The group maintains an active presence, including touring, as evidenced by their second Australian tour in April 2015.