Guy

Guy didn't invent New Jack Swing, since producer Teddy Riley worked with numerous groups during his heyday in the late '80s and the early '90s. However, Guy unquestionably defined the New Jack era. Riley formed the group with vocalist Aaron Hall and Timmy Gatling in Harlem, scoring a deal with influential label Uptown Records. (Gatling was soon replaced by Aaron Hall's brother, Damion.) With a sound that emphasized a rugged sensibility with funky R&B and hip-hop beats, Guy's 1988 self-titled debut ruled the R&B charts. Uptempo hits like "Groove Me," "Teddy's Jam" and "I Like" were all over the video stations, while sensuous ballads "Piece of My Love" and "Goodbye Love" dominated late-night radio broadcasts. Guy's second album, 1990's The Future, couldn't top their triple-platinum debut, but it yielded more hits, chiefly the slow-jam excursion "Let's Chill." Amidst various business issues, Hall split for a solo career, while Riley focused on his lucrative production career. However, Guy remain one of the most beloved R&B groups of the era, and the trio frequently reunites for well-attended tours and occasional new recordings.