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98� have always had a simple philosophy about success: persevere, work hard, have faith and eventually you'll reach your goal. For the quartet, who've sold millions of albums and earned a devoted fanbase since they arrived on the music scene in 1997, that humble way of looking at things has helped make them four of the hottest singing sensations in pop music. But their ultimate aspiration has always been clear-having people recognize that their talent goes beyond just their amazing harmonies. With their new album, Revelation, they've achieved that goal.
Since emerging on the music scene three years ago, 98� have been regarded as a vocal group to contend with. But being recognized was the result of group's determined efforts to get discovered. Their story began with JEFF, a native of Massillon, Ohio, who moved out to Los Angeles to pursue a singing career. When his first attempts at putting together a group didn't work out, he ultimately ended up meeting Cincinnati, Ohio native NICK through a mutual friend. Their musical chemistry was instant and soon NICK called on his longtime pal JUSTIN (the two attended the Cincinnati School for the Creative and Performing Arts) to head out to California and try his hand at singing with them. The last piece of the puzzle to fit was DREW, NICK'S younger brother, who was working in Brooklyn as an Emergency Medical Technician. He took his chances on the fledgling group.
The newly christened 98� endured their fair share of odd jobs and tight living conditions while struggling to get their big break. That break finally came backstage at a Boyz II Men show when they met a manager who saw a spark in the quartet. Soon, 98� were touring with R&B star Montell Jordan and before long were drawing raves for their dynamic performances. In 1997, they scored a recording deal with Motown Records (and signed to Universal Records in 1999).
Looking back at the struggles they endured to make a splash on the music scene, all four guys admit that the tough times only bonded them more tightly as a unit. The album title reflects the hard-earned lessons they've learned along the way. "We've learned about the business together, we've learned about hardships together," JEFF says. "We're like a family. We've dealt with everybody's setbacks and have also had the highest of highs together."
Some of those highs include singing with their musical idol, Stevie Wonder, on the song "True To Your Heart," which appeared on Disney's Mulan soundtrack (as well as on 98� And Rising), performing the rousing duet "Thank God I Found You" with Mariah Carey and Joe, and performing at the White House for President Clinton. But their happiest memories also involve making an impact on their loyal fans. "I think the most exciting thing is the reaction we've gotten from people who've been inspired by our music," JUSTIN explains.
And with Revelation, the group is destined to keep on inspiring people. "To see how it's accepted and what people think about it, that's the most exciting part," DREW says. NICK agrees: "All we ever wanted to do was be recognized for the music and have people enjoy our music. My hope for this album is that people will continue to appreciate it and have respect for what we do."
