After 7: The Smooth Sound of New Jack Swing and R&B
After 7 is an American vocal group known for their polished harmonies within the contemporary R&B and new jack swing genres. Hailing from Indianapolis, Indiana, the trio achieved significant commercial success in the late 1980s and early 1990s, with their self-titled debut album reaching platinum status.
Early Career
The group was formed by brothers Kevon and Melvin Edmonds, alongside childhood friend Keith Mitchell. Their big break came through family connections, as the Edmonds brothers are the younger siblings of renowned singer and producer Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds. This relationship provided a direct pathway to the music industry, leading to their discovery and signing with Virgin Records in the late 1980s.
Breakthrough
After 7's breakthrough arrived in 1989 with the release of their self-titled debut album, "After 7." The album was primarily produced by Babyface and his partner L.A. Reid, which immediately positioned the group at the forefront of the slick, sophisticated R&B sound dominating the charts at the time. Fueled by several hit singles, the album was a major success, earning a platinum certification from the RIAA and solidifying their place in the pop soul landscape.
Key Tracks
Ready or Not - This debut single became their signature song, a smooth new jack swing track that showcased their vocal blend and reached the top ten on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.
Can't Stop - Another major single from their first album, this song further demonstrated their knack for catchy, romantic quiet storm ballads and sustained their chart momentum.
Heat of the Moment - This track highlighted the group's ability to deliver uptempo, dance-friendly R&B while maintaining their harmonic polish.
Kickin' It - A single from their second album, "Takin' My Time," this song continued their run of quality urban contemporary hits in the mid-1990s.
The group's second album, 1992's "Takin' My Time," continued their success with gold certification and produced further R&B chart hits. After a hiatus, the group reformed and returned with new music, including the 2016 album "Timeless," which saw them collaborating again with Babyface and adapting their classic sound for a modern audience. Their music remains a staple of the quiet storm and classic R&B formats.
Artists with a similar smooth vocal group style and roots in new jack swing or contemporary R&B include Boyz II Men, Jodeci, Guy, and Tony! Toni! Toné!.
