U.N.V.

In Lansing, Michigan, brothers John “J-Ski” Powe and Shawn first honed their harmonies during childhood. They later expanded the lineup in high school and college by adding John “J.C.” Clay and Demetrius Peete, who performs under the name Peete. Once assembled as a quartet, U.N.V. began composing material and holding regular rehearsals. The group then relocated to Detroit to lay down contemporary R&B a cappella tracks; within that scene, WJLB began spinning “Something’s Goin’ On,” turning the song into a regional favorite. The local success attracted Maverick Records, which signed the act and issued the single. Its ascent to the top of the R&B charts compelled U.N.V. to complete an album in short order. Something’s Goin’ On reached stores in 1993, and Universal Nubian Voices followed in 1995.