When it comes to R&B, certain groups stand out for their ability to create timeless music that is listened to across generations. Hi-Five is one such group. Hailing from Waco, Texas, this quintet stormed the music scene in 1990 and stole the hearts of millions of young ladies around the globe. Their smooth harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and unique style were like no other during their era. Though their time in the spotlight was relatively short (1989-1994), their impact on R&B will reign forever.
The Rise of Hi-Five
Formed in 1989, Hi-Five originally consisted of Tony Thompson, Roderick “Pooh” Clark, Marcus Sanders, Russell Neal, and Toriano Easley. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1990, was produced by the legendary Teddy Riley, a pioneer of the New Jack Swing sound. The album was an instant success reaching platinum status with hits like “I Just Can’t Handle It” and “I Can’t Wait Another Minute.” However, it was the chart-topping single “I Like the Way (The Kissing Game)” that solidified their status as R&B superstars. The song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became an anthem for young love.
Hi-Five’s sophomore album “Keep It Goin On,” was released in 1992. It was just as successful as their debut album reaching Platinum status. The lead single “She’s Playing Hard To Get,” peaked at number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 2 on the R&B singles chart. The album had another big hit “Quality Time,” which was written by the King of R&B, R. Kelly. Kelly wrote four of the nine songs on this album. “Keep It Goin On” is the last album that featured all of the original members of High-Five.
Hi-Five released their third album “Faithful,” in 1993. This album was not as successful as their previous albums as the group’s popularity began to fall off. Many attribute this to other male R&B groups starting to dominate the music scene like Jodeci, Blackstreet, Boyz II Men, H-Town, and Silk. “Faithful” peaked at #23 on the Billboard R&B chart and the single “Never Shoulda Let You Go,” reached #30 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song was also featured on the Sister Act 2 soundtrack. Other notable tracks of the album include, “Faithful,” “What Can I Say to You (To Justify My Love),” and “Unconditional Love.”
Tragedy and Tribulations
Despite their success, Hi-Five faced many challenges. In 1990, shortly after the release of their debut album, Toriano Easley was dismissed from the group following legal troubles. His vocals still appeared on the second album as it was already in the works prior to his departure.
In 1992, Russell Neal left the group due to financial disagreements with the record label.
In 1993, when the group was traveling to a performance, the vehicle they were riding in was struck from behind causing it to flip. Group member Roderick “Pooh” Clark suffered a devastating injury that left him paralyzed from the neck down.
In 2007, as the group was planning a comeback tragedy struck again. Front man Tony Thompson died at the age of 31 due to inhaling a toxic amount of freon.
In 2022, Roderick “Pooh” Clark passed away from complications of an infection and pneumonia.
Legacy and Influence
Despite numerous tragedies and the revolving door of new members, the group decided to reunite in recent years and release more music to keep the Hi-Five legacy alive. In 2024, they collaborated with H-Town (another group that lost one of their founding members) and dropped the single, “Slow Grind.”
Though today’s version of High-5 is not as popular as the 1990s version, they continue to tour and inspire new generations of R&B artists.
Hi-Five’s music dominated the golden era of R&B, where love songs ruled the airwaves and vocal harmonies were key. As listeners rediscover their catalog, songs like “I Like the Way (The Kissing Game),” “She’s Playing Hard to Get,” “Quality Time, ” “Just Can’t Handle It,” “Unconditional Love,” and “I Can’t Wait Another Minute,” serve as a reminder of a time when R&B spoke directly to the heart with lyrics were about true love and not focused on sex.
Hi-Five may not have always received the recognition they deserved, but their influence on R&B is undeniable. They are a group that played a role in shaping the R&B sound and making music lovers fall in love with boy bands around the globe.
Follow Hi-Five on Social Media