Three iconic Chicago singers, Donell Jones, Dave Hollister and Carl Thomas have teamed up to form a new R&B group called The Chi. Jones made the announcement on social media on July 10.
“New R&B Group “The Chi” @carlthomasnow@davehollister @donelljonesforever Yesssss it’s happening! The level of music and songwriting will be impeccable and you already know the voices! It’s only right for us to come together and represent Chicago and R&B to the fullest 🙏🏾👌🏾.”
Each of the singers has had success in the music industry on their own, according to BET. Jones is a singer and songwriter who has made seven albums during his career. The 48-year-old released his first album from LaFace Records “Where I Wanna Be” in 1999.
Hollister found fame as a member of the R&B quartet BLACKstreet back in the 1990s. Hollister was also featured in Tupac Shakur’s single “Brenda’s Got a Baby.” The 52-year-old released his first solo album “Ghetto Hymns” in 1999.
Thomas found success in New York after Diddy heard him sing at an open mic night and signed him to his label Bad Boy Entertainment. He sang back-up for LL Cool J and Notorious B.I.G. before he released his album Emotional in 2000. The album sold more than 1 million copies.
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The new trio has discussed becoming a super trio since 2009, according to Hollister, who also posted the news to social media.
“****BREAKING NEWS****,” Hollister wrote. “New R&B Group “The Chi” @donelljonesforever @carlthomasnow@davehollister ….the music…the voices finally coming together to give your ears and hearts what you’ve been waiting for…we started talking about this in 2009 and now the time has finally come….Brothas I count it an honor and privilege to Rep home with you both! LETS GO!”
The new super trio did not announce when their new music will drop, but Jones has a new album out. The singer released 100% Free in February.