City High

If you were a music fan in the early 2000s, then you likely remember the hip-hop/soul trio, City High. With their catchy hooks and relatable lyrics, this group quickly rose to fame and became a staple on the airwaves. Comprised of Ryan Toby, Robby Pardlo, and Claudette Ortiz, City High captured the hearts of listeners with their unique sound and undeniable talent.

About City High

City High was formed in 2000 in Willingboro, New Jersey. The group initially went by the name of "Loose Ends" but later changed it to "City High" after signing with Wyclef Jean's Booga Basement record label. The trio quickly made a name for themselves with their debut single, "What Would You Do?," which tackled tough topics such as poverty and domestic violence. The song was a massive success and became one of the most played songs of the year.

City High's self-titled debut album was released in 2001 and was met with critical acclaim. The album showcased the group's unique blend of hip-hop, soul, and R&B and featured collaborations with industry heavyweights such as Eve, Tha' Rayne, and Pharrell Williams. The album was a commercial success, reaching the top 40 on the US Billboard 200 chart.

Despite their success, the group faced numerous setbacks. They were dropped from their record label after their album failed to reach the same heights as their debut single. Ryan Toby left the group to pursue other ventures, leaving Robby Pardlo and Claudette Ortiz to carry on as a duo. The group briefly reunited in 2004 but disbanded for good shortly thereafter.

Despite their relatively short tenure, City High made a lasting impact on the music industry. They proved that they could tackle tough topics in their music while still creating catchy, radio-friendly hits. Their legacy can still be felt today in the music of contemporary artists who similarly infuse social commentary and personal experiences into their music.

While City High may not have reached the same heights as their contemporaries, their music remains a testament to their talent, creativity, and ability to connect with listeners on a deep and emotional level.

From their heart-wrenching single "What Would You Do?" to their upbeat tracks like "Caramel" and "City High Anthem," City High left an indelible mark on the music industry. Though they may never reunite, their music will continue to live on as a reminder of the group's undeniable talent and impact on the world of music.