**What Really Happened to the Forgotten ’90s R&B Group Changing Faces?**

Changing Faces, the R&B duo known for their silky harmonies and chart-topping hits, seemed poised for greatness in the ’90s. With their music catching the attention of legends like Prince, their story appeared to be a fairytale. However, the reality was far more complex, marked by betrayal, creative clashes, and missed opportunities that led to their rapid decline.

Formed by Sharice Rose and Cassandra Lucas in New York City, Changing Faces met at the prestigious LaGuardia High School of Performing Arts. Their journey began with humble beginnings, singing backup and hustling through auditions. The turning point came when they realized they could be the stars instead of supporting acts, leading to the birth of Changing Faces.

What set them apart was their decision to remain a duo at a time when groups often featured larger lineups. Despite skepticism from record labels, who doubted that two women could sustain attention, they were determined to let their talent shine.

Their big break arrived in 1993 when producer Kenny “Smooth” Corn recognized their potential. An impromptu performance on a Manhattan street corner for Craig Kallman of Big Beat Atlantic Records caught the industry’s eye and propelled them into the limelight.

By 1994, they released their debut single “Stroke You Up,” produced by R. Kelly, which became a smash hit, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100. Their debut album went gold, and they quickly established themselves as a formidable presence in R&B. However, their rise was accompanied by misconceptions; many viewed them as an overnight success without recognizing the years of hard work and rejection they had endured.

As their fame grew, so did the pressures of the music industry. While their debut single captured hearts, their sophomore album, *All Day, All Night*, released in 1997, continued their success with hits like “Get Out” and a cover of Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time.”

However, the industry landscape began to shift, and they found themselves competing with rising stars like Brandy and Aaliyah, leading to feelings of being overlooked by their label, Atlantic Records.

The turning point came with their third album, *Visit Me*, released in 2000. Despite having strong production and standout tracks, the album suffered from poor promotion and lack of support, ultimately failing to make an impact. The tragic death of Aaliyah in a plane crash further complicated matters, as her posthumous release of “Come Over” overshadowed Changing Faces’ version, leaving them feeling sidelined.

Creative tensions began to surface between Sharice and Cassandra, exacerbated by the pressures of the industry. They found themselves growing apart, with differing visions for their future. After taking a break, it became clear that a reunion was unlikely. By the mid-2000s, Changing Faces had all but disappeared from the music scene.

In 2009, a previously unheard track titled “Crazy Love” sparked rumors of a reunion, but plans for a comeback faltered. Attempts to release new music, including the single “Hate Love,” faced challenges without major label backing, leading to financial strain.

Sharice and Cassandra pursued solo projects, with Cassandra launching her own label and releasing a solo album in 2019.

Despite their struggles, the legacy of Changing Faces remains significant. Their music, characterized by smooth, sultry sounds, continues to resonate with fans.

They demonstrated that R&B could be both sophisticated and authentic, without relying on gimmicks. Their story serves as a cautionary tale about the challenges artists face in an ever-evolving industry, highlighting the importance of timing, support, and resilience. While their time in the spotlight may have been fleeting, their impact on the R&B genre is undeniable, proving that true talent can endure beyond the charts.