About this Artist
In 1998, Next's impact was undeniable as they swept the Billboard Awards, winning eight awards, including Top New Artist and Top R&B Artist Duos/Group which to date is the most awards by a duo or group in one Billboard awards ceremony. The group also garnered a Soul Train Award for Best R&B/Soul Single by a Group for "Too Close." The album, which achieved multi platinum status, featured chart-topping hits like "Too Close" and "Butta Love," both of which soared to number one on the US Hot 100 and R&B charts. Their smooth harmonies and sultry lyrics solidified their status as one of the most talented R&B groups of the era.
Since disrupting the musical landscape of R&B in the late 90’s and well into the new millennium with a string of Billboard charting hits including a pair of #1 singles, as well as delivering a multi-platinum debut album Rated Next, Next has solidified their place in music history. Although the trio disbanded several years ago, R.L., along with brothers Terry Brown and Raphael Brown have recently reunited and returned to making music full time. They collectively agreed that no one wins when the family feuds. As a result, their stage moniker has taken on a whole new meaning; they’ve put the past behind them and are anticipating what’s next.
Next formed in Minneapolis, Minnesota as three aspiring singers who connected through their gospel roots, eventually emerging as one of the most talented R&B units in recent years. The list of classics recorded by the threesome during their most fruitful period includes “Too Close,” “Wifey,” “Butta Love,” “Anything” and “I Still Love You.”
The accomplished balladeers will continue to bring their loyal following, as well as new supporters, sweet yet streetwise lyrics and polished, soulful harmonies with a hint of hip-hop. As the architects of high-quality cinematic story-songs steeped in rich melodies, Next will continue to set trends with their quotable vernacular and ability to adapt to the changeable R&B scene in an authentic way. While their story is still being written, it should be noted that the mature men ultimately chose the unbreakable bond of brotherhood over the bureaucracy of show business. Locked and loaded with introspective, danceable and conversational hit records in the vault, the smooth silkiness and modern stylings of Next.
As the years progressed, Next maintains their relevance, with the group's ability to evolve while continuing to perform live has kept them in the hearts of fans. Currently RL along with TLow stay tied to the music business. RL continues to write and perform with some of his latest work being "2000's R&B by Kenyon Dixon f/RL, "Naked" by CASE f Raheem Devaughn and RL also Can't Keep(remx) Sherri Brown f/RL. TLOW latest projects includes his discovery of 5 member boy group called "Curfew" that he is developing and producing new music for the new generation. Although in December 2023, Tweet publicly announced his retirement from music, marking a new chapter in Next's journey to be carried on by the two members. Though the trio's lineup has changed, their legacy as pioneers of late '90s R&B continues to shine, with classic hits that remain timeless. With their unforgettable sound and undeniable talent, Next will always be remembered as one of the defining groups of their generation.