In the mid-90s, the R&B landscape was shifting. While Motown and LaFace had dominated the early part of the decade with a polished, classic soul sound, Sean “Puffy” Combs and Bad Boy Records introduced a grittier, hip-hop-infused alternative. At the center of this movement was 112. Comprised of Quinnes “Q” Parker, Michael “Mike” Keith, Marvin “Slim” Scandrick, and Daron Jones, the group offered a unique proposition: church-honed, four-part harmonies laid over the hardest New York street beats.
From their self-titled debut to their chart-topping success in the early 2000s, 112 became the gold standard for male vocal groups. They weren’t just background singers for rappers; they were superstars in their own right, capable of delivering baby-making ballads and club anthems with equal finesse. As we look back at their discography, we revisit the ten tracks that defined their career and solidified their place in the R&B Hall of Fame.
Only You (Bad Boy Remix) (feat. The Notorious B.I.G. & Mase)
Album: 112 (1996) While the original version of “Only You” was a smooth, respectable R&B introduction, it was the Bad Boy Remix that fundamentally changed the genre. By pairing 112’s silky vocals with legendary verses from Biggie Smalls and Mase, Bad Boy created the “Hip-Hop Soul” blueprint. This track didn’t just top the charts; it defined the “shiny suit” era of the late 90s. Decades later, that opening “I thought I told you that we won’t stop” still signals an immediate party starter.
Cupid
Album: 112 (1996)
If “Only You” was for the club, “Cupid” was for the heart. This acoustic-guitar-led ballad remains one of the most quintessential slow jams of the 90s. Showcasing Slim’s unique, nasal-leaning tenor on the lead, the song highlights the group’s ability to be vulnerable and romantic without losing their edge. It has since become a staple at weddings and a “must-learn” for every R&B vocal group that followed in their footsteps.
I Will Be There
Album: 112 (1996)
Often overshadowed by the massive singles from the debut album, “I Will Be There” is a fan-favorite “deep cut” that serves as a masterclass in vocal layering. Produced by the group’s own Daron Jones, the track proves that 112 didn’t always need high-profile rap features to make an impact. The lush, orchestral production combined with their tight gospel harmonies makes this one of the most sophisticated tracks in their early catalog.
Love Me (feat. Mase)
Album: Room 112 (1998)
Following up a multi-platinum debut is no easy feat, but 112 struck gold again with the lead single from Room 112. Built on a clever sample of Luther Vandross’ “Don’t You Know That?”, the song masterfully bridges the gap between classic soul and modern R&B. Mase’s laid-back flow provides the perfect counterpoint to the group’s high-energy vocal performance, resulting in one of the smoothest mid-tempo grooves of the decade.
Anywhere (feat. Lil’ Zane)
Album: Room 112 (1998)
“Anywhere” represented a more mature, sensual shift for the group. This late-night anthem is famous for its atmospheric, almost hypnotic production and its unapologetic bedroom-ready lyrics. It became a massive hit on R&B radio, proving that 112 could compete with the likes of Jodeci and Dru Hill when it came to crafting provocative, high-tension slow jams.
Love You Like I Did
Album: Room 112 (1998)
Many critics and fans consider Room 112 to be the group’s most cohesive body of work, and “Love You Like I Did” is the emotional anchor of that album. Dealing with the regret and longing that follows a breakup, the vocal delivery here is particularly raw. The way the group trades lines during the bridge showcases the deep chemistry between the four members that was often their greatest strength.
It’s Over Now
Album: Part III (2001)
As the music world moved into the 2000s, 112 proved they weren’t going anywhere. “It’s Over Now” gave the group their first #1 single on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. Utilizing a flip of the Grandmaster Flash “The Message” bassline, the song is an empowering breakup anthem. It showcased a more rhythmic, punchy side of their vocals that fit perfectly with the turn-of-the-century R&B sound.
Peaches & Cream
Album: Part III (2001)
Undoubtedly their biggest crossover success, “Peaches & Cream” earned 112 a Grammy nomination and became a global pop phenomenon. The song’s infectious, bouncy production (courtesy of P. Diddy and Mario Winans) made it an inescapable summer anthem in 2001. It proved that 112 were more than just balladeers—they were hitmakers capable of dominating both the suburban pop charts and the urban airwaves simultaneously.
Smile
Album: Part III (2001)
While Part III was dominated by upbeat club hits, “Smile” took the group back to their soulful roots. Produced by the legendary duo Tim & Bob, this track is a bright, uplifting record that focuses on pure melody. It’s an overlooked gem in their discography that reminds listeners of the group’s incredible range; they could go from the grit of the streets to the sunshine of a feel-good love song effortlessly.
Nowhere
An overlooked gem from the group’s fifth album, “Nowhere” featured production from Bryan-Michael Cox and Jermaine Dupri.
Honorable Mention:
Come See Me (featuring Mr. Cheeks) (from the “112” album)
Crazy Over You (from the “Room112” album)
Your Letter (from the “Room112″ album)
Caught Up (from the Part III” album)
Right Here for You (from the “Hot & Wet album)
U Already Know (from the “Pleasure & Pain” album)
God Knows (from the “Pleasure & Pain” album)
Dangerous Games (from the “Q, Mike, Slim, Daron” album)
Both of Us (featuring Jagged Edge) (from the “Q, Mike, Slim, Daron” album)
