Melvin Edmonds

Melvin Edmonds, a pivotal figure in the R&B scene, played a significant role in shaping the sound of the genre through his involvement with the celebrated group After 7. Founded in 1987 alongside his brother Kevon and friend Keith Mitchell, After 7 quickly rose to prominence with the help of Melvin's brother, the iconic Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds, who not only named the group but also secured them a record deal with Virgin Records. Their debut album in 1989, a platinum-selling masterpiece, was a showcase of their smooth, harmonically rich R&B style, yielding chart-topping singles such as "Heat of the Moment," "Ready or Not," and "Can't Stop," with the latter two securing No. 1 spots on the R&B charts and achieving top 10 status on the Billboard Hot 100.

After 7's musical journey continued with their 1992 platinum-selling album "Takin' My Time," further cementing their status with hits like the R&B medley "Baby, I'm for Real/Natural High." Their 1995 gold-selling album "Reflections" featured the hit "'Til You Do Me Right," before the group took a hiatus in 1997. Returning to the music scene, Melvin Edmonds rejoined After 7 for their 2016 comeback album "Timeless," which resonated with fans old and new, producing three adult R&B top 10 hits: "Runnin' Out," "I Want You," and "Let Me Know." Through their evolving sound and enduring hits, Melvin Edmonds and After 7 have left an indelible mark on the R&B genre, blending soulful melodies with intricate harmonies to create timeless music.