What’s better than a classic hip hop and dance music party?

A free one that’s jam-packed with stars! Toronto’s very own Russell Peters and the legendary DJ Starting From Scratch as they host an unforgettable outdoor show that’s sure to be the ultimate throwback party to squeeze that last bit of summer in. With very special musical guests Big Daddy Kane, EPMD, Flavor Flav, Nice & Smooth, Crystal Waters and Renée Neufville from Zhané.

HISTORY OF ZHANE

Zhane (pronounced Jah-Nay) is an American R&B duo that gained prominence in the 1990s, known for their smooth vocals and a blend of R&B, hip-hop, and jazz influences. The group consists of two members, Jean Norris (Jean Baylor) and Renée Neufville. They formed Zhane while attending Temple University in Philadelphia, where both were studying music.

Zhane first broke onto the scene in 1993 with their hit single “Hey Mr. D.J.,” which became an instant classic. The track was produced by DJ Kay Gee of Naughty by Nature and was featured on the Roll Wit tha Flava compilation album. Its infectious groove and catchy hook made it a major hit, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the R&B charts. The song established Zhane as one of the standout acts in the burgeoning R&B scene of the early 1990s.

Their debut album, Pronounced Jah-Nay (1994), was a commercial success, producing other hits such as “Groove Thang” and “Sending My Love.” The album showcased their smooth harmonies and laid-back, jazzy vibe, blending elements of neo-soul, R&B, and dance music. It was praised for its sophisticated production and the duo’s refreshing vocal style, which stood out during an era dominated by more traditional R&B sounds.

Zhane also contributed to the soundtrack for the movie A Low Down Dirty Shame with the single “Shame,” further solidifying their place in 90s R&B culture. Their music often featured positive, feel-good messages and an effortlessly cool vibe that resonated with audiences.

In 1997, they released their second album, Saturday Night, which included tracks like “Request Line” and “Crush.” Though the album didn’t achieve the same level of commercial success as their debut, it was still well received by fans and critics alike for its maturity and artistic growth.

Despite their short-lived mainstream career, Zhane’s music has left a lasting impact on R&B, and they are fondly remembered for their contributions to the 90s music scene. Both Jean Baylor and Renée Neufville have pursued solo projects since Zhane disbanded, but their work together remains influential, particularly in the neo-soul and R&B genres.

CRYSTAL WATERS MUSIC HISTORY

Crystal Waters is a singer, songwriter, and house music artist best known for her distinctive voice and massive hits in the 1990s dance music scene. Born on November 19, 1961, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she comes from a musical family—her father was a jazz musician, and her great-aunt was Ethel Waters, the legendary blues singer and actress.

Crystal Waters rose to fame in 1991 with her breakout single “Gypsy Woman (She’s Homeless),” which became a global hit. The song is instantly recognizable for its catchy organ riff and Waters’ signature vocal line, “La da dee, la da da.” The track topped the charts in several countries and became an anthem in the house and dance music scenes. “Gypsy Woman” was notable for its socially conscious lyrics about homelessness, which set it apart from many other dance tracks at the time.

Her debut album, Surprise (1991), included other popular tracks, but it was her second hit single, “100% Pure Love” (1994), that cemented her status as a dance music icon. “100% Pure Love” was a top 10 hit in the U.S. and charted internationally, praised for its infectious groove and club-friendly energy.