Female R&B Groups
List of the All-Time Best R&B Female Groups
The world of R&B music has been home to some of the most talented and influential singers in music history. In the world of female R&B groups, the 1980s to 2000s were a golden age, with a wave of talented performers taking center stage. From the fierce girl power of Destiny’s Child to the harmonies and rhymes of TLC, these groups left their imprint in music with their irresistible tunes, mesmerizing shows, and potent singing abilities. In this article, witness a list of the best female R&B groups from the 1980s to the 2000s, showcasing their extraordinary talents and contributions to the genre.
Top 20 Female R&B Groups
TLC
TLC formed in 1990, consisting of Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins, Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, and Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas. They are known for their innovative blend of R&B, hip-hop, and pop music. TLC made their debut with the album Ooooooohhh… On the TLC Tip in 1992, which featured hit singles like “Ain’t 2 Proud 2 Beg” and “Baby-Baby-Baby.” They gained widespread fame and success with their second album “CrazySexyCool” in 1994, which included chart-topping hits such as “Waterfalls” and “Creep.” TLC has an impressive list of accolades, including four Grammy Awards and the best-selling girl group of all time, with over 85 million records sold worldwide.
Destiny’s Child
Beginning in 1997, Destiny’s Child initially consisted of Beyoncé Knowles, Kelly Rowland, and Michelle Williams. They became one of the best-selling female groups of all time with their powerful vocals and catchy R&B and pop songs. Destiny’s Child gained massive success with their third studio album Survivor in 2001, which featured the title track “Survivor” and hit singles like “Bootylicious” and “Independent Women.” The group received numerous accolades, including three Grammy Awards and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
En Vogue
En Vogue was created in 1989 and known for their unique blend of R&B, soul, and new jack swing music. En Vogue obtained significant attention with their 1990 debut album Born to Sing, which included the hit singles “Hold On” and “Lies.” They further solidified their success with the album Funky Divas in 1992, featuring popular songs like “My Lovin’ (You’re Never Gonna Get It)” and “Free Your Mind.” En Vogue has received numerous accolades, including seven MTV Video Music Awards and four Soul Train Music Awards.
SWV
SWV, also known as Sisters With Voices, was based around Cheryl “Coko” Clemons, Tamara “Taj” Johnson, and Leanne “Lelee” Lyons. SWV achieved mainstream success with their debut album It’s About Time in 1992, which featured the chart-topping hits “Weak” and “Right Here.” They continued to release successful albums, including New Beginning in 1996 and Release Some Tension in 1997. SWV received critical acclaim and various accolades throughout their career, including multiple Grammy nominations. They are recognized for their smooth harmonies and soulful R&B sound.
Xscape
Xscape formed in 1992, initially around the likes of Kandi Burruss, Tameka “Tiny” Cottle, LaTocha Scott, and Tamika Scott. Xscape gained popularity in the 1990s with their soulful R&B sound and powerful vocal harmonies. They released their debut album Hummin’ Comin’ at ‘Cha in 1993, which spawned hit singles like “Just Kickin’ It” and “Understanding.” The group went on to release several successful albums, including Off the Hook in 1995 and Traces of My Lipstick in 1998. Xscape has received numerous accolades, including a Grammy Award and three Soul Train Music Awards.
Changing Faces
Changing Faces is a R&B duo that was formed in 1993 with Cassandra Lucas and Charisse Rose. Changing Faces gained popularity in the 1990s with their contemporary R&B sound. They released their debut album Changing Faces in 1994, which included the hit singles “Stroke You Up” and “Foolin’ Around.” The duo continued to release music and received recognition for their smooth harmonies and emotional lyrics. Changing Faces’ unique blend of soul, R&B, and pop has made them a favorite among R&B enthusiasts.
Fifth Harmony
Fifth Harmony is a group that was formed during the second season of the reality TV show The X Factor USA in 2012. The group initially consisted of Ally Brooke, Normani, Lauren Jauregui, Dinah Jane, and previously Camila Cabello. Fifth Harmony gained widespread popularity and a dedicated fanbase. They released their debut EP Better Together in 2013, which included the hit single “Miss Movin’ On.” Fifth Harmony’s success continued with their albums Reflection in 2015 and 7/27 in 2016. Fifth Harmony continued to release music before going on an indefinite hiatus in 2018.
Brownstone
Brownstone was active from 1993 to 1998. The group consisted of Charmayne “Maxee” Maxwell, Nicci Gilbert, and Monica “Mimi” Doby. Brownstone gained popularity with their debut album From the Bottom Up in 1994, which spawned the hit single “If You Love Me.” They continued to release successful albums, including Still Climbing in 1997. Brownstone received critical acclaim for their soulful R&B sound and tight harmonies. Despite their short-lived career, they left a lasting impact on the R&B music scene.
3LW
3LW, also known as 3 Little Women, was created with the original lineup that consisted of Adrienne Bailon, Kiely Williams, and Naturi Naughton. 3LW gained prominence in the early 2000s with their sassy R&B and pop music. They released their self-titled debut album in 2000, which featured their breakout hit “No More (Baby I’ma Do Right)” and other popular singles like “Playas Gon’ Play” and “I Do (Wanna Get Close to You).”
Floetry
Floetry starred Marsha Ambrosius and Natalie Stewart, who are known for their soulful and poetic approach to R&B music. Floetry gained recognition for their unique fusion of spoken word and neo-soul, creating a refreshing sound in the music industry. They released their debut album Floetic in 2002, which included the hit singles “Say Yes” and “Floetic.” The duo received critical acclaim and several Grammy nominations for their innovative style and introspective lyrics.
Blaque
Blaque was formed in 1999 through singers Shamari Fears, Brandi Williams, and the late Natasha Williams. Blaque gained popularity for their sassy and edgy R&B sound. They released their self-titled debut album in 1999, which featured the hit singles “808” and “Bring It All to Me.” The group continued to release music, including their second album Blaque Out in 2002. Although they disbanded in 2004, Blaque’s contributions to the R&B genre are still celebrated.
702
Sisters Irish and LeMisha Grinstead, and their friend Kameelah Williams created 702 during the early 1990s. 702 gained fame for their smooth blend of R&B and hip-hop. They released their debut album No Doubt in 1996, which featured the hit single “Where My Girls At?” and became one of their signature songs. The group continued to release successful albums, including 702 in 1999 and Star in 2003.
The Pointer Sisters
The Pointer Sisters group originally consisted of sisters Ruth, Anita, Bonnie, and June Pointer, although the lineup has changed over the years. The Pointer Sisters gained fame for their energetic performances and eclectic musical style, which combines elements of R&B, pop, soul, and disco. They achieved commercial success with their self-titled debut album in 1973, featuring the hit singles “Yes We Can Can” and “Wang Dang Doodle.” The group continued to release successful albums, including Break Out in 1983, which included the chart-topping hit “Jump (For My Love).”
Sister Sledge
Sister Sledge formed in 1971 by sisters Debbie, Joni, Kim, and Kathy Sledge. The group is known for their disco and R&B music. Sister Sledge gained international recognition with their album We Are Family in 1979, which featured the iconic title track “We Are Family” and the hit single “He’s the Greatest Dancer.” They continued to release successful albums, including Love Somebody Today in 1980 and When the Boys Meet the Girls in 1985.
Total
Beginning in 1994 with Bad Boy Records, Kima Raynor, Keisha Spivey, and Pamela Long helped create the group Total. Total rose to fame in the mid-1990s with their smooth blend of R&B, hip-hop, and soul music. They gained recognition with their debut album Total in 1996, which featured popular songs like “Can’t You See” and “No One Else.” The group continued to release successful albums, including Kima, Keisha & Pam in 1998.
Kut Klose
Kut Klose originally consisted of Athena Cage, Tabitha Duncan, and LaChanzee Sheard. They rose to prominence in the mid-1990s and released their debut album Surrender in 1995, which included the hit singles “I Like” and “Lovely Thang.” The group gained recognition for their sensual harmonies and heartfelt ballads. Although they disbanded in the late 1990s, Kut Klose’s music continues to be appreciated by R&B enthusiasts for its soulful melodies and emotional depth.
Cherish
Cherish formed in 2003 with sisters Farrah, Neosha, and twins Felisha and Fallon King. Cherish gained popularity in the mid-2000s following the release of their debut album Unappreciated in 2006, which featured the hit singles “Do It to It” and “Unappreciated.” The group received recognition for their sultry vocals and relatable lyrics. Despite some lineup changes, Cherish continued to release music and showcase their talent for blending R&B, pop, and hip-hop influences.