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Electrik Red: Innovators of Girl Group Music – An Analysis

In the wake of Destiny’s Child’s indefinite hiatus in 2005, the search for the next groundbreaking R&B girl group began. Between 2006 and 2010, a wave of trios and quartets emerged, but none could match the impact made by Electrik Red.

Composed of group members Lesley, Binkie, Sarah, and Naomi, Electrik Red was born from a fusion of New York and Toronto talent. Lesley and Binkie, childhood friends from New York, had previously toured as dancers with Sarah on Usher’s 8701 and Confessions tours. Recognizing Sarah’s potential, they invited her to join their group, contingent on the inclusion of Sarah’s childhood friend, Naomi.

These four members brought a wealth of experience from their performing arts backgrounds, and their journey took an exciting turn when they secured a production deal with renowned music producer Rodney Jerkins, known for his work with Brandy, Monica, and Whitney Houston. Eventually, they caught the attention of Shakir Stewart and inked a deal with Def Jam. Tragically, Stewart, their biggest advocate at the label, passed away in November 2008, just before the group’s debut album release.

Electrik Red burst onto the music scene during an era of emerging platforms like YouTube and Myspace, which provided unique opportunities for artists to connect with fans and showcase their music. While promoting their debut album, “How To Be A Lady Vol. 1,” Electrik Red embarked on a promotional tour as the opening act for label mate Ne-Yo. Additionally, they relied heavily on interviews with online outlets such as DrJays.com, Karma Loop, and various radio stations, often taking the initiative to create buzz themselves by uploading vlogs on their personal YouTube channels and even making signs to promote their album. However with Stewart’s absence it seemed that the group faced challenges finding solid ground at Def Jam.

The release date for “How To Be A Lady Vol. 1” remained uncertain throughout several interviews preceding its eventual release in May 2009, causing anticipation among their dedicated fanbase. Electrik Red differentiated themselves from other girl groups, including the iconic Destiny’s Child, by fearlessly embracing a more risqué and unapologetic approach during interviews. With their urban world/urban pop sound, the quartet aimed for nothing short of world domination.

Crafted by The-Dream and Tricky Stewart’s RedZone Entertainment, “How To Be A Lady Vol. 1” showcased a blend of cocky, arrogant, yet classy tracks. Although the album received support from the group’s tour with Lil Wayne, a lack of label backing hindered its reach beyond their devoted fanbase. Despite the setback, standout songs like “So Good,” “Muah,” “Drink In My Cup,” and “Devotion” resonated with fans, solidifying the album’s legacy.

Electrik Red accompanied their debut album with four music videos, including “Friend Lover,” “Drink In My Cup,” “So Good,” and the remix of “So Good” featuring Lil Wayne. However, as it became apparent that the record label would no longer support the project, the group hinted at recording a second album. While details remained scarce, they expressed their intention to collaborate with new producers and explore their songwriting abilities. Teasers of a new song titled “I’m That Chick” circulated among fans through audio snippets and performance footage. Unfortunately, the realization dawned that a second Electrik Red album would never materialize, leading to an indefinite hiatus. Despite this, the group members remain close friends to this day.

Fans continue to hold fond memories of the spring and summer of 2009, cherishing Electrik Red’s debut album. Their bold, unapologetic style and boisterous energy would seamlessly align with the current musical landscape, alongside artists like Megan Thee Stallion and Cardi B. Electrik Red’s innovative spirit and ahead-of-their-time sound cement their status as trailblazers in the girl group genre.

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1 Comment

1 Comment

  1. Built By Creatives

    June 6, 2023 at 5:17 am

    What is your favorite Electrik Red song?

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