Unique Attraction to Boyz

Today in Music History: August 27, 1994

Often narratives are set to poetic verse each telling its own emotional story. Blending a ballad with a cappella harmonies brings the lyrical poetry to life. In the later 19th century, the term (ballad) took on the meaning of a slow form of popular love song and is now often used for any love song, particularly the pop or rock power ballad.

Boyz II Men Formerly a quartet, Boyz II Men found fame on Motown Records as a quartet featuring bass singer Michael McCary, baritone Nathan Morris and tenors Wanya Morris and Shawn Stockman. McCary left the group in 2003 due to health issues but the group continued as a trio. They are recognized as an American R&B vocal group, best known for emotional ballads and a cappella harmonies. During the 1990s, Boyz II Men gained international success. 

The group continues to perform worldwide, as a trio. Their most recent studio album, Twenty, was released in 2011.

1994 Boyz II Men started a 14 week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'I'll Make Love To You', a No.5 hit in the UK. The record- breaking 14 week stay came to an end when they knocked themselves from the top with 'On Bended Knee'.

 Nothing like knocking yourself off the No.1 spot with another No.1 of your own!

Boyz II Men performing at Vega, Copenhagen

A Bit of 'Boyz' Trivia... 

The 'boys' were high school friends attending the Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts in Philadelphia. The group was originally called Unique Attraction and would practice in the school's bathrooms due to the excellent acoustics. Now, that is definitely  'using' the John!


From Unique Attraction to Boyz...

Behind the music are episodes of the highs of success and the lows of losing a close friend. Calling themselves Unique Attraction while attending Philadelphia's High School for the Creative and Performing Art, Nate and his best friend Marc Nelson enlisted the help of a revolving student line-up. Unique Attraction became a school staple. Combining their classical training with the a cappella "Philly sound," Unique Attraction quickly took their graceful harmonizing style from the school to the streets, performing everywhere from local hangout The Gallery to subway platforms. In 1989, a much-needed name change was in order. Sources vary on who was responsible for the switch in moniker, but the group eventually settled on Boyz II Men having taken inspiration from New Edition's harmonies and routines, especially in the similarly-titled New Edition song 'Boys to Men'. 

And the music goes on beating to the rhythm of the changing times...