SWV performing at the HEB Center in Cedar Park, Texas on June 25, 2021, with Tamara Johnson-George, Leanne "Lelee" Lyons, and Coko Clemons. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
In 1992, a trio of vocally talented women called SWV was introduced to the music world. The RCA debut, It’s About Time, produced a string of top ten R&B hits including: “I’m So Into You,” “Right Here,” “Downtown,” “Weak,” and “You’re Always On My Mind.” This montage of musical success established the trio as a commercial force early in 1993.
Teddy Riley mentored the group in honing their craft and sound and, as a result, produced the remix to the hit, “Right Here,” which featured samples of Michael Jackson’s hit. The partnership also produced another hit single, “Human Nature,” which topped the R&B charts at number one and popular charts at number two. SWV earned 11 Billboard Music Award nominations for its debut album.
In 1996, SWV returned to the music scene with another platinum album, New Beginning, which was preceded by the number one hit, “You’re the One” and The Neptune’s hit, “Use Your Heart.” In 1997, SWV released its third album, Release Some Tension, which spawned several top ten hits including “Someone” featuring Sean ‘Puffy’ Combs as artist and producer; “Lose My Cool,” a rhythmic duet of SWV and rap artist Redman; “Rain” a trademark torch ballad written and produced by the first album collaborator, Brian Alexander Morgan; and the Timbaland produced song “Can We,” featuring Missy Elliot, which was featured on the ‘Booty Call’ movie soundtrack.
In the group’s career, SWV has received numerous accolades from its peers in the industry. In 1993, the debut album received nominations for a Grammy, American Music Award and Source Award. The group also won a Children’s Choice Award and a BET “Best of Video Soul” Award. SWV disbanded in 1998 but reunited in 2005 and have hit the stage non-stop, as a commitment to its fans to produce 90s-esque hits.
Amazing!SWV shared the stage with Keith Sweat and All-4-One at the HEB Center. They continue across the United States with the last stop at the Chicago Theatre in Chicago, Illinois on October 8, 2021.
Show was Awesome! We have a Great time!
I stayed grooving the whole show definitely enjoyed myself and meeting SWV was the icing on the cake.
The show was very very good show!
My favorite from the night! These ladies didn't miss a beat. can't wait to see them again!
Every time I have seen SWV perform it was a vibe.
Awesome performance!
I saw SWV last night at the MGM Theater in Maryland and they were absolutely amazing! They sound great and their songs still gets me up out of my seat! Koko's voice is awesome! Please don't be like these other groups and break up because SWV is great together!
Incredible Show!
SWV and Big Daddy Kane put on incredible performances. As a child of the 80’s and 90’s, some musicians from that era currently touring aren’t always putting on the greatest shows, but this is not one of them. I would definitely recommend seeing both performers in future venues.
SWV
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Photos by Ralph Arvesen
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