Since R&B came into existence, you’ve always had talented groups to reach their pinnacle and get acknowledged in one form or the other. But on the flipside of the coin, you’ve had groups that were talented yet didn’t reach their full potential and often are unsung. ’90s girl duo Zhané is a perfect example. Let’s talk about them and their debut album, Pronounced Jah-Nay.
Hailing from Temple University by way of Rhode Island and New York, Jean Norris and Renée Neufville, respectively, released Pronounced Jah-Nay in 1994. They made quite the impression out the gate with party anthem, “Hey Mr. DJ.”
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Jean and Renée would keep the positive vibes going on their second single, “Groove Thang.” Both singles did well on the charts, reaching number 6 and 17 spot, respectively, on the US Billboard Hot 100.
Perhaps, my favorite song from the album and from the duo altogether is “Sending My Love.” It’s one of the more well written songs of the era and has really stood the test of time.
“If I could mail my heart right to you I would,” Zhané sings. “I’d pack it up, seal it tight and I’d send it over night.”
Pronounced Jah-Nay peaked at the number 37 spot on the US Billboard 200 and number 8 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums. The album was certified Platinum.
Again, these two ladies were very talented, but unfortunately things came to a halt before reaching full strive. Obviously, there were a lot of talented acts coming out of the ’90s. I just hope the two didn’t get overshadowed.
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Zhané’s ‘Pronounced Jah-Nay’; Classic!, Jammin’, Regular, or Not Impressed?
[Polls Are Closed!]
Classic! – 78%
Jammin’ – 22%
Not Impressed – 0%
Regular – 0%
