Valentine's Love Affair with Next, Jon B., and more

Next, hailing from Minneapolis, became late-'90s R&B icons with hits like "Too Close" and "Wifey." Known for suggestive lyrics and gospel-influenced harmonies, they achieved multi-platinum success with "Rated Next" under Arista. The group, mentored by Reverand James Grear, and Sounds of Blackness' Ann Nesby, worked with producers like KayGee and Darren Lighty. They released three albums before splitting in 2003. They reunited in 2018 with original members RL, T-Low, and Tweet.

Born in Providence, raised in Pasadena, Jon B. is a notable R&B songwriter, producer, and artist known for blending '70s soul with hip-hop. Hits like "Someone to Love" and "They Don't Know," collaborations with Babyface and 2Pac, and platinum albums define his career.

Color Me Badd, formed in 1985 in Oklahoma City, delivered hits like "I Wanna Sex You Up," achieving two Grammy nods, multiple awards, and over 12 million records sold. The band's music featured in movies and TV shows like "New Jack City" and "Glee." Originally with four members, now Mark Calderon leads, touring with '90s icons like Salt N Pepa.

Heatwave, formed by brothers Johnnie and Keith Wilder, is renowned for its international disco-funk sound, featuring hits like "Boogie Nights" and "Always and Forever." After starting in Germany, the band moved to the UK, joining forces with songwriter Rod Temperton. Their albums, produced by Barry Blue, consistently featured soulful ballads and dynamic grooves. Despite lineup changes, including Temperton's shift to writing hits for Michael Jackson, Heatwave's legacy remained strong into the 90s. The group made a notable return with live tours and remixes, celebrating their enduring influence in dance music.

Formed in San Francisco, Latin rock band Malo, led by Arcelio Garcia and Jorge Santana, is best known for the hit "Suavecito." Their fusion of soul, rock, jazz, and Latin music, produced initially by David Rubinson, captured listeners in the early '70s. Despite dwindling popularity after their debut, "Suavecito" remains a classic. Malo collaborated with various artists over decades, released several albums, and featured in a Rhino Handmade box set.