Jodeci and Boyz II Men have many things in common. Both were a quartet (B2M is down to a trio since the retirement of Michael McCary), both laid out the blueprint for other groups to follow, and both survived sophomore-jinx. Let’s talk about their second releases, Diary of a Mad Band and II.
Jodeci released Diary of a Mad Band first in December 1993. After the success of Stay, their debut, they were out to prove they weren’t a one-trick pony. We quickly bought into the notion with, “Cry for You,” the album’ first single.
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“Cry for You” peaked at the number 15 spot on the US Billboard Hot 100 and atop the U.S. Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks.
K-Ci, JoJo, Mr. Dalvin, and DeVante Swing kept the momentum going with “Feenin,” their second single. The sex-craving track reached number 25 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number 2 on the U.S. Hot R&B/Hip Hop Singles & Tracks.
Diary of a Mad Band peaked out at the number 41 spot on the US Billboard 200. However, it fared better on the US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums, reaching the number 6 spot.
Boyz II Men released II eight months later. After winning us over with their smooth harmonies and school boy image on their 1991-debut, Cooleyhighharmony, they too, wanted to prove they were in it for the longevity. “I’ll Make Love to You,” the album’s first single, conveyed the message right away.
“I’ll Make Love to You” atop the US Billboard Hot 100.
Wanya, Nathan, Shawn, and Michael followed up with another romantic ballad with “On Bended Knee.” It reached the number 1 spot on US Billboard Hot 100 as well.
II debuted at number 1 on the Billboard 200.
Diary of a Mad Band consists of baby-making hits that have withstood the test of time. II, on the other hand, has some of the best love songs that, have too, withstood the test of time. So, both have withstood the test of time, but which one was better?
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Jodeci’s ‘Diary of a Mad Band’ or Boyz II Men’s ‘II’?
[Polls Are Closed!]
Jodeci – Diary of a Mad Band – Unanimous
Boyz II Men – II – 0%