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Biography
 Entering a music industry that at the time already had the great success of other male
R&B groups, Troop had their work cut out for them with distinguishing themselves from
the rest, but from the moment they made their official entrance in 1989 Troop quickly set
themselves apart from other groups with their captivating harmony & explosive dance
styles. The internationally recognized R&B Sensation known as Troop got its start in the
late 80s after they won a televised talent contest that later drew interest from record labels
& fans alike. Hailing from Pasadena, CA where they are still based Troop consisting of
childhood friends Steve Russell, Allen McNeil, John Harreld, Rodney Benford, & Reggie
Warren signed to Atlantic Records and released their debut single “Mamacita” off of
their self titled album in 1989. “Mamacita” reached number two on the Billboard R&B
Charts & quickly established Troop as a group that fans would take serious notice of.
Troop established a reputation as a group that could easily combine high quality live
singing with intricate dance routines that would have the crowds in shock at their ability
to do both so well. After the success of the debut album, Troop followed up with
“Attitude” a album that would become known as a classic for hit songs like “Spread My
Wings” & All I Do Is Think of You” which both climbed to number one on the Billboard
R&B charts & also simultaneously remained in the top 10 on the charts for weeks.
“Attitude” was certified Platinum in 1990 & then Troop released their third album Deepa
in 1992 which saw their single “Sweet November” go straight to number one on the
Billboard R&B charts as well. The group followed the “Deepa” album with two more
albums “A Lil Sumpin Sumpin”(1994) & “Mayday”(1998) which both have
coincidentally been re-released in 2005 demonstrating a sign that Troop’s music remains
in high demand.
After releasing “Mayday” in 1998, Troop took a hiatus & individual members worked
behind the scenes on various projects such as writing, producing, collaborating, and other
business endeavors. Troop became well known over the years for their strong live
performances which landed them as headliners of world wide tours as well as the
opportunity to tour with other fellow national recording artists.
In 2004 Troop returned to the scene as a unit & immediately began touring across the
United States & finishing up their sixth album. The group has also been promoting its
hot new single “Thizzle” which is making its way to radio stations across the United
States & overseas. Since returning Troop has headlined a number of shows & also shared
the stage with many industry veterans that they also toured with in the past such as Boyz
II Men, Brian McKnight, Keith Sweat, Silk, Mario, & Jon B. to name a few. Troop has
built quite the resume with four number one singles & ten top ten singles on the Billboard
R&B Charts. They have also completed five albums, which includes three certified Gold
& one certified Platinum album.
Troop also took their abilities to another level when in 1998 they formed their own
production company Acts Entertainment & teamed up with Independent label Warrior
Records to release their album “Mayday.” Lead singers Allen McNeil & Steve Russell
Executive Produced the entire album that received quite a few positive reviews from
many sources including Billboard which stated “impeccable vocals, catchy lyrics, melody,
[and] harmony.” Urban Network showcased “Mayday: as an editor’s choice” as well as
other magazines that praised the album such as Vibe, Impact, & Sister to Sister. Troop
has also been showcased on David Letterman, Soul Train, Arsenio Hall, Showtime at the
Apollo, & appeared in the feature film “New Jack City” singing acapella in addition to
recording on the soundtrack title song along with Queen Latifah & Levert. Troop
continues to fill concert venues with excited fans who are still amazed by their
performance. Look forward to seeing & hearing more from Troop at a venue near you or
on their upcoming album.
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