Syleena Johnson is the newest member to R&B supergroup ‘The Chi,’ replacing Donell Jones.
Originally formed in 2021, the group consisted of Chicago-bred R&B singers Donell Jones, Dave Hollister, and Carl Thomas. When Hollister first made the announcement nearly three years ago, he wrote, “The music…the voices finally coming together to give your ears and hearts what you’ve been waiting for…we started talking about this in 2009 and now the time has finally come….Brothas I count it an honor and privilege to Rep home with you both! LETS GO!”
On Sunday (May 19), Syleena Johnson shared the news on her instagram.
“Welp, the cat is out the bag in a good way,” wrote the “All Falls Down” singer on Instagram. “I am officially a part of an R&B trio that is SURE to shake the table in R&B music‼️ It’s an honor to be able to share the stage with these two vocal Giants‼️ So THIS is our next Chapter and we couldn’t be more ready. It’s official.”
Prior to forming The Chi, all three artists led successful careers.
Carl Thomas stepped on the music scene in 1997 after signing with Bad Boy Entertainment. He is known for his hits “I Wish,” “Emotional,” “Summer Rain” and “Can’t Believe (feat Faith Evans).”
Johnson began her career 90s and was an instant standout for her jazzy alto vocals. The R&B Diva and Grammy-nominated recording artist has released nearly 10 albums and is best known for her feature on Kanye’s “All Falls Down.”
Hollister began in the industry as one of four men in the group Blackstreet, before launching his solo career. The 52-year-old has released eight individual LP’s including Ghetto Hymns and Chicago ’85: The Movie, both of which are certified gold. His last project was 2016’s The Manuscript.
Fans can check out the group’s set on Saturday, June 1, when the televised special airs on the Stellar Network at 8 p.m. ET. It will also air on Bounce TV on Juneteenth at 9 p.m. ET and will remain in national syndication throughout Black Music Month.