TLC was supposed to perform at the New York State Fair in Syracuse on August 23. But, the duo didn’t end up making it, as T-Boz (real name Tionne Watkins) had been hospitalized for a health issue that turned out to be a severe abdominal blockage. A performance at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut set for that night was also canceled.
Now, T-Boz herself has spoken out.
In an Instagram post shared over the weekend, T-Boz wrote, “I’m on The Mend!!! This Was Just One Of Those Unexpected Things That I Had No Control Over! I Look Forward To Making It Up 2 You All… And Hopefully I’ll Get Out Of The Hospital Soon!!! As Soon As Tomorrow If All Goes Well!!! Thank You For Understanding… Blessings Always T [heart emoji].”
TLC’s original post announcing the cancellations explained the situation, saying in part, “After delivering an electrifying performance in Toledo, Ohio on Thursday, TLC was eagerly anticipating their next stop at the New York State Fair in Syracuse. However, shortly after arriving in Syracuse, Tionne ‘T-Boz’ Watkins experienced sudden and severe nausea, vomiting, and intense abdominal cramps. She was immediately seen by a doctor and subsequently taken to the hospital for further evaluation. Last evening, Tionne was diagnosed with a severe abdominal blockage, necessitating the cancellation of both the Syracuse and Foxwoods performances. She remains in the hospital under medical supervision but is expected to be released tomorrow. The doctor verified that this was not food poisoning, but an abdominal blockage.”
Reports have confirmed that T-Boz of the legendary R&B trio TLC was hospitalized due to severe abdominal pain and has been placed in ICU, forcing the group’s New York concert date to be abruptly canceled.
The group was scheduled to perform in Syracuse, NY, on Friday at the New York State Fair. Still, a half hour before showtime, the fair’s X account reported that TLC’s performance had been canceled due to T-Boz “experiencing symptoms related to food poisoning.”
A press statement shared on T-Boz’s Instagram account stated that the 54-year-old singer was experiencing “sudden and severe nausea, vomiting, and intense abdominal cramps.” The statement also said she was seen by a doctor and taken to the hospital for further evaluation.
“Last evening, Tionne was diagnosed with a severe abdominal blockage, necessitating the cancellation of both the Syracuse and Foxwoods performances,” read the statement. “She remains in the hospital under medical supervision but is expected to be released tomorrow. The doctor verified that this was not food poisoning, but an abdominal blockage.”
TLC’s management also confirmed that T-Boz had to stay at the hospital overnight and underwent a CT scan to determine the severity of her condition.
“TLC is committed to rescheduling the canceled shows and apologizes to all the fans, particularly those who traveled long distances to attend. The group appreciates the understanding and support,” the statement added.
According to their official website, TLC has a full schedule through October, including a concert at the Ravinia in Highland Park, Illinois, on August 31.
In 2017, T-Boz penned a memoir called A Sick Life detailing her health issues with sickle cell disease at the apex of TLC.
TLC fans’ frustration have turned into grave concern. On August 23, the “No Scrubs” musicians were slated to perform at the New York State Fair in Syracuse.
Unfortunately, the duo was nowhere to be found at their designated performance time. Instead, the stage displayed a message (viewable here), which read: “Unfortunately, tonight’s TLC performance has been canceled due to T-Boz experiencing severe illness.”
The ailment was initially thought to be food poisoning. However, after T-Boz (real name Tionne Watkins) was hospitalized for the condition yesterday (August 24), it was formally diagnosed as a severe abdominal blockage. As a result, the group was forced to cancel their subsequent Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut that evening.
Over on TLC’s Instagram page, they expressed regret over the last minute cancelation and provided more information about T-Boz’s hospital stay. “Tionne deeply regrets having to cancel these shows and extends her sincere apologies to all her fans and the event promoters,” read the note. “The decision to cancel was made under the advisement of her physician, who required her to stay in the hospital overnight to undergo a CT scan to assess the severity of her condition.”
Read the full official statement posted to TLC’s Instagram stories below.
Legendary Atlanta R&B group TLC has been in the midst of another tour, but they have had to postpone some shows. According to HipHopDX, the now duo of T-Boz and Chilli announced the heartbreaking news on their official Instagram page on Monday (May 13). In the post, they explained that four shows in Canada were being rescheduled because of several members of the crew became quite sick. One of them was T-Boz, who has had her fair share of nagging issues over the years. According to Billboard, two years ago T-Boz had an allergic reaction to cigarette and recreational smoking going on backstage. Because of that incident, they were forced to reschedule two stops for their Celebration of CrazySexyCool Tour.
Furthermore, in 2017 Billboard also reported that a European tour was postponed due to T-Boz suffering a cervical disc issue. It is sad to see T-Boz continue to come down with so many different issues. Our best wishes go out to her and the rest of the TLC crew. As for this Canadian set, shows on May 14, 16, 17, and 18 are being moved to a later date. The locations include Moncton, New Brunswick, Windsor, Ontario, Niagara Falls, Ontario, and Peterborough, Ontario.
In the group’s statement, they expressed how awful they felt and how appreciative they were of their fans. “We deeply regret to inform you that we must cancel the upcoming date. Unfortunately, a few members of our tour, including T-boz, have fallen ill with the flu. As a result, she has lost her voice. Doctors have advised her not to perform this week,” they said. “We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Your support means the world to us, and we look forward to the opportunity to perform for you in the near future. We love you and will see you soon.”
What are your thoughts on TLC postponing and canceling some of the upcoming shows? Were you going to be heading to any of these tour stops? We would like to hear what you have to say, so be sure to leave your takes in the comments section. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding TLC. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on in the music world.
On this date in 2002, the frontwoman of legendary R&B/Hip Hop trio TLC, Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes was killed in an automobile crash in Honduras when he SUV swerved out of control, discharging all four passengers in the vehicle. Lopes was the only fatality in the accident. She was 30 years old.
Left Eye was undoubtedly one of the major creative forces of the group. She was responsible for the group’s image, album titles, artwork, music videos, and received the majority of the co-writing credits. The group received four Grammys for Best R&B album for CrazySexyCool in 1996, Best R&B Performance By Group With Vocals of “Creep” in 1996, Best R&B Album for Fan Mail in 2000, and Best R&B Performance By Group With Vocals for “Scrubs” in 2000.
Left Eye went on to pursue a short solo career, scoring two top ten singles for “Not Tonight” and “U Know What’s Up”, and a #1 UK single for “Never Be The Same Again”. Lisa is still the only TLC member to release a solo album.
The last moments of left Eye’s life were captured in a documentary titled The Last Days of Left Eye showing the artist’s last 27 days alive, which aired in May 2007.
Beyonce was the starlet many were most excited to see at the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Awards as she took home the Innovator Prize from fellow icon Stevie Wonder. Still, the show had countless other pop culture crossovers, including a performance from TLC who surprised some viewers with the femcee they recruited to stand in for the late Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes. In the past, Lil Mama has been a top contender for the part after playing the fallen member in the 2013 biopic, Crazy Sexy Cool, about their come-up. However, this year, it was Latto who joined Chilli and T-Boz for renditions of the girl group’s biggest hits, “Waterfalls” and “No Scrubs.”
Big winners at the awards ceremony on Monday (April 1) include Taylor Swift (Best Artist), Morgan Wallen (Country Artist), SZA (R&B Artist, Album, and Song), Joshua Halling (Tour Photographer), Selena Gomez and Rema (Best Collaboration), and Latto took home Best Music Video for her work with Jungkook on “Seven.” As for performances, Justin Timberlake, Tate McRae, Green Day, and the evening’s host, Ludacris, were all on the roster. As per usual, viewers are sharing all of their thoughts on social media, and we’re seeing a lot of mixed reactions to the 777 hitmaker’s appearance.
TLC Taps Latto to Sing With Them at the iHeartRadio Music Awards
“Just last year TLC was introducing Latto to perform and [now] she is performing with them. SO ICONIC!!!” one fan account on Twitter/X wrote. “Now who tf approved of Latto rapping Left-eye’s verse for TLC’s ‘Waterfall’ performance?” a hater chimed in, desperate for answers.
Keep scrolling to read more social media reactions to Latto’s surprise appearance at the 20204 iHeartRadio Awards. Do you think the Atlanta-based baddie was the right pick to fill in for Left Eye? Let us know in the comments, and check back later for more music/pop culture news updates.
Just last year TLC was introducing Latto to perform and a year later she is performing with them.
CONGRATS: TLC on your I Heart Radio Music’s Landmark Award! TLC has broken records & opened so many doors. TLC deserves more recognition!
Latto performed with TLC; she credited Left-Eye as an inspiration. GloRilla introduced them, she also paid homage to her recently. pic.twitter.com/i5bVmD0eBG
— Jerome Trammel, M.B.A (@MrJeromeTrammel) April 2, 2024
she do bomb every performance, i just don’t get why ppl hate that she’s the one they chose to do left eye verse.!
Latto might be one of the biggest names from her native Atlanta (although she’ll be the first to get really specific and clarify she’s from Clayton County), but she stands on the shoulders of giants. During her performance at the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Awards (hosted by another Atlanta native, Ludacris), Latto acknowledged one of her late forebears with a rendition of Left Eye’s classic verse from TLC’s “Waterfalls” alongside TBoz and Chili. Her performance left fans on Twitter gushing in appreciation — although, of course, a certain fanbase looked less than enthused. However, even the Barbz couldn’t put a damper on the wave of love from the performance, which one accounted noted is a full-circle moment for Latto and TLC.
Latto performing Left Eye’s verse on Waterfalls in her memory just made my heart smile. pic.twitter.com/l4lniAck5V
— Latto’s Tre | Fan Account (@LattosTre) April 2, 2024
Meanwhile, with both Latto and Ice Spice in attendance — and no news of an outright fight, as of press time — fans are waiting with bated breath to see if the two rappers set their differences aside to celebrate their mutual successes or… well…
Meanwhile, Latto’s got another big performance coming up: This Saturday is the NCAA’s Super Saturday event in Cleveland ahead of the Women’s National Championship Game. She’s racking up accomplishments left and right, and with so many co-signs from legends in addition to her own penchant for supporting up-and-coming artists, they are all well-deserved.
Girl groups from the 1990s had a profound and enduring impact on R&B, the music industry, and pop culture. They often conveyed messages of empowerment, independence, and self-confidence through their music. Furthermore, girl groups were renowned for celebrating sisterhood. Throughout the decade, these groups had immense commercial appeal. Additionally, their diversity and innovative approach to music helped them achieve crossover success.
From Destiny’s Child’s unique fashion looks to TLC’s timeless music videos, the impact of 1990s girl groups could hardly ever be overlooked. However, what stood out the most among the R&B songstresses, was their ability to create some truly ageless music. Although most of them have since disbanded, their legacies remain intact. In fact, their influence is still being felt as the 2020s are experiencing a resurgence of girl groups.
Brownstone
Brownstone was formed in 1993 and was subsequently signed to Michael Jackson’s record label, MJJ Music. The group initially consisted of three members, Monica “Mimi” Doby, Nichole “Nicci” Gilbert, and Charmayne “Maxee” Maxwell. Their music blended elements of R&B, soul, and gospel, showcasing their impressive vocal abilities. Brownstone released two albums in the 1990s, From the Bottom Up (1995) and Still Climbing (1997). They rose to prominence in late 1994 upon releasing their signature song and most successful single, “If You Love Me.” Other standout songs from the group’s discography are “Grapevyne,” “Pass the Lovin’” and “5 Miles to Empty.” Twenty-six years since their last studio album, following several changes in their lineup, the group released a soulful live cover of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” from an upcoming album of live cover recordings.
Xscape
Xscape was formed in Atlanta, Georgia in 1991. The group initially consisted of five members: Kandi Burruss, LaTocha Scott, Tamika Scott, Tameka Cottle, and Tamera Coggins-Wynn. Upon Coggins-Wynn’s departure from the group in 1992, the R&B girl group became a quartet. Xscape’s music blended elements of R&B, soul, and Hip Hop. Unsurprisingly, their unique, soulful sound brought them great fame. They achieved success with a series of chart-topping hits, including: “Just Kick It,” “Understanding,” and “Who Can I Run To.” Xscape is one of the most influential R&B girl groups and released three studio albums in the 1990s. All three albums are certified Platinum by the RIAA.
En Vogue
En Vogue is undoubtedly one of the pioneer girl groups that rose to fame in the 1990s. The founding members of this iconic R&B group are Terry Ellis, Cindy Herron, Maxine Jones, and Dawn Robinson. En Vogue was formed in 1989 but gained widespread popularity in early 1990 after the release of “Hold On,” the lead single from their debut album, Born to Sing. They released two other studio albums in the 1990s: Funky Divas (1992) and EV3 (1997). En Vogue is regarded as one of the most successful girl groups of the 1990s, and they have remained culturally relevant since. Overall, the group has released seven studio albums. Additionally, some of their other hit songs include: “Don’t Let Go (Love),” “My Lovin,” and “Free Your Mind.”
SWV
SWV is one of the best-selling girl groups of not just the 1990s but of all time. The iconic trio is made up of singers Cheryl “Coko” Gamble, Tamara “Taj” Johnson, and Leanne “Lelee” Lyons. The group was initially formed in 1988 as a gospel group before transitioning into R&B. SWV’s debut album, It’s About Time, was released in 1992 and was a major success. It included the hit single “Weak,” which has become one of their signature songs. The single also reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 for two weeks. Other hits of theirs include “I’m So Into You,” “You’re the One,” and “Right Here (Human Nature Remix).”
Blaque
Blaque was one of the notable R&B girl groups of the late 1990s and early 2000s. The trio of friends were known for their energetic style and fusion of R&B and Hip Hop. The group was formed in the late 1990s and consisted of members Shamari Fears, Brandi Williams, and Natina Reed. Their self-titled debut studio album was released in 1999 and was a commercial success. Soon after its release, the album was certified Platinum. Their two biggest hits are “808” and “Bring It All to Me,” which both charted within the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100. Additionally, the trio ventured into acting, starring in the cult classic cheerleading film Bring It On alongside Gabrielle Union and Kirsten Dunst.
Destiny’s Child
Destiny’s Child took over the 1990s and beyond and has become one of the most recognizable girl groups of all time. Furthermore, their contributions to R&B and pop music and their unique fashion have made them both musical and fashion icons. The group officially kicked off in 1997 after being signed to Columbia Records, but the girls were performing long before then. The original lineup included Beyoncé Knowles, Kelly Rowland, LeToya Luckett, and LaTavia Roberson. However, they’ve become more known as a trio over the years, with Michelle Williams joining Beyoncé and Kelly. Destiny’s Child achieved significant critical and commercial success, birthing the solo careers of its three members. They are often regarded as one of history’s most iconic and successful girl groups. The famous trio continues to perform together occasionally, and the fans clamor for a reunion.
TLC
TLC’s incredible rise to fame is undoubtedly one for the books. A timelessly relevant force in the music industry, they became known for their unique style, groundbreaking music, and empowering messages. The group was formed in 1990 and consisted of three members: Tion “T-Boz” Watkins, Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, and Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas. TLC’s music blended R&B, Hip Hop, and pop elements. They’re also known for their pioneering sound, incorporating rap segments, unconventional song structures, and socially conscious lyrics. Lisa Lopes unfortunately passed away in 2002, and the remaining two members have continued TLC as a duo. TLC is one of the best-selling girl groups that debuted in the 1990s, with over 23 million album sales.
To celebrate the 30th Anniversary of So So Def, Grammy® Award-winning producer, songwriter, hip-hop artist, author, and DJ Jermaine Dupri, announced his upcoming So So Def Festival, a celebration of hip-hop and R&B music. The multi-day festival will feature performances from well-renowned artists, including Xscape, Jagged Edge,Anthony Hamilton, Da Brat, TLC, Dem Franchize Boyz, and Youngbloodz.
The two-day live music event will take place on October 7th from 12 PM – 11 PM ET and October 8th from 12 PM – 10 PM ET in Atlanta’s infamous Central Park. Additional performers are forthcoming.
TLC remains one of the highest-regarded female singing groups of all time, and they’re just getting started. The Atlanta-based trio burst onto the scene over thirty years ago and has been a force ever since. After four Grammy awards, and over 90 million records sold worldwide, the ladies have still endured many trials and tribulations. Surviving bankruptcy and losing its third member Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes in 2002 did not break Rozanda “Chilli” Thomas and Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins. Now, the ladies are documenting their illustrious journeys with a new documentary.
The two-part doc has been in the works for a while, but on Monday, fans got the first look. A collaborative effort between Lifetime and A&E Networks, TLC Forever is an in-depth look into their rise to fame. Other superstars such as Questlove and collaborator Missy Elliot appear in the film, detailing the group’s success from a fellow creator’s lens. The documentary is not short of nostalgia, offering archival footage from their decades in the spotlight.
“No matter what we went through, we never questioned the love,” Chilli is heard saying in the 90-second trailer. TLC Forever will also follow the women on their current endeavors. Now in their 50’s, they are showing no sign of slowing down. In fact, the Matthew Kay-directed film will highlight the preparation of their Hot Summer Nights Tour alongside early 2000s superstar, Shaggy. This moment is especially monumental because it marks the first time the ladies had been on the road since 2021’s CrazySexyCool tour.
Both T-Boz and Chilli served as executive producers on the television special. Fellow executive producers include Roger Ross Williams and Geoff Martz for One Story Up and Bill Diggins for Diggit Entertainment Group. Lauren Fulton, also with One Story Up, will handle production duties. From A&E Networks, Elaine Frontain Bryant and Brad Abramson will also lend their talents to EP roles. Ahead of their highly anticipated show, T-Boz and Chilli graced the cover of Variety. Alongside them were fellow R&B stars Keyshia Cole and Mary J. Blige. Each of the ladies are being recognized by the publication for forthcoming Lifetime projects. Sharing the cover on her Instagram, Chilli congratulated her fellow front cover stars on their similar accomplishments. Fans can catch “TLC Forever” when it debuts on A&E Networks and Lifetime June 3rd at 8 P.M.
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