Shai

Shai is an American R&B and soul quartet that made significant waves in the early 1990s with their smooth harmonies, romantic lyrics, and soulful delivery. Formed at Howard University in Washington, D.C., the group originally consisted of members Darnell Van Rensalier, Garfield A. Bright III, Marc D. Gay, and Carl Martin, the latter being the one who penned their monumental hit "If I Ever Fall in Love." This ballad, known for its a cappella version almost as much as its studio production, reached the number 2 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1992, establishing the group as a formidable force in the R&B scene.

Shai's debut album, "...If I Ever Fall in Love," was a commercial success, selling over three million copies and spawning additional hits. Following their initial triumph, Shai released several more albums, including "Blackface" in 1995 and "Destiny" in 1999, exploring new sounds and themes while trying to recapture the magic of their early days. Although they never quite achieved the same level of commercial success as their debut, Shai has remained active, touring and releasing new music, including "Musically Yours" and offerings that revisit their biggest hit in various forms, such as orchestral and sped-up versions. Despite lineup changes and the evolving landscape of R&B music, Shai’s influence on the genre and their legacy of timeless ballads like "If I Ever Fall in Love" endure.

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