Introduction
SWV (Sisters With Voices) stands as one of the most influential R&B groups of the 1990s, renowned for their powerful harmonies, emotional depth, and significant contributions to the genre. Comprising Cheryl “Coko” Gamble, Tamara “Taj” Johnson-George, and Leanne “Lelee” Lyons, SWV emerged from New York City, blending gospel roots with contemporary R&B and new jack swing influences. Their music resonated with a broad audience, earning them a lasting legacy in the music industry.
Early Life and Formation
Cheryl “Coko” Gamble
Born Cheryl Elizabeth Gamble on June 13, 1970, in The Bronx, New York, Coko was raised in a musically inclined family.
Her mother, Lady “Clyde” Tibba Gamble, was a gospel singer, which deeply influenced Coko’s musical journey. Coko began singing at the age of three, and her early exposure to gospel music laid the foundation for her powerful vocal style. She later moved to Brooklyn before returning to The Bronx, where she met Lelee Lyons.
Leanne “Lelee” Lyons
Lelee Lyons was born on July 17, 1973, in The Bronx, New York. Raised in a musical environment, Lelee developed an interest in singing at a young age. Her harmonious voice complemented Coko’s, and together, they formed the core of what would become SWV.
Tamara “Taj” Johnson-George
Tamara Antrice Johnson was born on April 29, 1971, in Brooklyn, New York. The youngest of six children, Taj faced significant challenges during her childhood, including the death of her mother when she was 14. Despite these hardships, she pursued her passion for music, joining Coko and Lelee to complete the trio. Taj’s mezzo-soprano voice added a unique layer to SWV’s sound.
Rise to Fame
SWV’s journey began in 1988 when Coko and Lelee formed a gospel group. They later recruited Taj to complete the trio. Initially performing in local venues, their big break came when they were discovered by producer Brian Alexander Morgan. In 1991, after performing live for RCA executives, SWV secured an eight-album record deal, marking the beginning of their professional career.
Musical Evolution and Major Achievements
Debut Album: It’s About Time (1992)
Released on October 27, 1992, It’s About Time was SWV’s debut studio album. The album blended new jack swing with R&B and soul, featuring hits like “Weak,” “Right Here/Human Nature Remix,” “I’m So Into You,” and “You’re the One.” “Weak” became their biggest hit, reaching number one on both the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B charts. The album was certified 3× Platinum in the U.S., selling over 3 million copies.
Subsequent Albums
- New Beginning (1996): This album continued their success, featuring the hit “You’re the One,” which topped the R&B charts.
- Release Some Tension (1997): Included the gold-certified single “Someone,” featuring Puff Daddy.
- A Special Christmas (1997): A holiday album showcasing their versatility.
- I Missed Us (2012): Marked their return to the music scene after a hiatus.
- Still (2016): Continued to showcase their enduring talent.
Collaborations and Contributions
SWV collaborated with several artists, including Pharrell Williams, Queen Latifah, Snoop Dogg, and Missy Elliott. They contributed to the 1995 Waiting to Exhale soundtrack with the song “All Night Long,” and featured on Quincy Jones’ 1995 album Q’s Jook Joint with the track “Slow Jams.”
Challenges and Hiatus
Despite their success, SWV faced internal challenges, leading to their disbandment in 1998. The members pursued solo projects during this period. However, in 2005, they reunited, continuing to perform and release music. In 2024, they co-headlined the “Queens of R&B Tour” with Xscape, showcasing their enduring appeal.
Personal Lives
Cheryl “Coko” Gamble
Coko has a son, Jazz, with Digable Planets member Ishmael Butler, who is professionally known as Lil Tracy. She married gospel producer Mike “Big Mike” Clemons in 2003, and they have a son, Jalen Clemons, who is also a singer under the stage name Jayye Michael. The couple divorced in 2018 after 15 years of marriage.
Tamara “Taj” Johnson-George
Taj married former NFL player Eddie George in 2004, and they have a son, Eriq Michael George, born in 2005. She is also stepmother to Eddie’s son from a previous relationship. Taj has been active in advocacy, co-authoring the book Player hateHER: How to Avoid the Beat Down and Live in a Drama-Free World in 2007.
