In the ‘90s, Boyz II Men was well on its way to becoming iconic. Twenty years, four Grammys, a handful of record-breaking hits and 60 million sold albums later, the trio ― formerly a quartet ― continues to perform and make new music. But, as Nathan Morris, Wanya Morris and Shawn Stockman tell “Oprah: Where Are They Now?”, even one of R&B’s most beloved groups can struggle in today’s evolving entertainment industry.
“One of the challenges of fame would be, I guess, staying famous,” Wanya chuckles.
The initial slowdown after Boyz II Men’s famed ascent was a bit of an awakening back in the day. “We couldn’t even forecast the actual success that we’d have, hence not really recognizing the type of success that we had until things actually died down,” Wanya points out.
The journey from then to now has been an adjustment for the singers.
“One of the favorite lines is, ‘You guys used to be my favorite group,’” Nathan says. “Sometimes we ask ourselves, ‘Well, what does used to be mean?’ Does that mean we’re not anymore?”
Plenty has changed since Boyz II Men’s “Motownphilly” days, and one of the biggest factors affecting musicians’ success comes down to pacing, according to Wanya.
“We’re in an instant-coffee-type society where things happen so fast,” he says. “Gone are the days of hard work into longevity. And talent! You know, it’s just so easy now to be famous.”
“The industry changes constantly,” Shawn adds. “What’s hot today ain’t hot today.”
You can catch up with Boyz II Men on “Oprah: Where Are They Now?”, airing Saturday at 9 p.m. ET on OWN, or on demand via the Watch OWN app.
Another dose of ‘90s nostalgia:
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