The Run That Back series is a deep dive into some of music’s most popular or underrated projects. Whether it’s been 5 years or 50, there’s never a wrong time to ‘run that back.’
Three decades ago, the vivacious Atlanta trio TLC released their debut album Ooooooohhh... On the TLC Tip. Comprised of Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins, Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas, and the late Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, they were LaFace Records’ all-female powerhouse.
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TLC emerged on the scene with brightly colored baggy clothing, considered unorthodox at the time. Remarkably, their condom-accessorized overalls (which symbolized pro-safe-sex) was a total fashion staple. The group’s style was often compared to the all-male trio Bell Biv DeVoe. Likewise, many believed the collective favored Hip Hop duo Salt-n-Pepa in terms of female-positive music. However, TLC was arguably original, delivering a one of a kind sound with T-Boz’s smooth contralto tone, Chilli’s mezzo-soprano vocals, and Left Eye’s energetic raps.
Originally released in 1992, a defining year for Contemporary R&B. Ooooooohhh... On the TLC Tip seamlessly blended Hip Hop and R&B at the peak of the New Jack Swing era. The album opens with an unidentified male voice recording that questions the group’s femininity, claiming that the collective doesn't appear ladylike. Conversely, the album itself redefines womanhood. Spearheaded by L.A. Reid, Babyface and Dallas Austin, Ooooooohhh... On the TLC Tip is playful, celebratory, and carefree.
While TLC’s debut project is a bop collectively, a select handful of tracks are memorable classics. The sexually assertive lead single "Ain't 2 Proud 2 Beg" is bouncy yet bold. "What About Your Friends" is a catchy ode to friendship. And "Baby-Baby-Baby" is a certified sultry banger. Aside from the suitable production, what makes Ooooooohhh... On the TLC Tip special is how the trio complements each other musically. It was also an introduction to their raw talent individually.
Thirty years later, TLC’s Ooooooohhh... On the TLC Tip is incredibly fun and seemingly timeless. The 15-track debut serves as the blueprint for what TLC blossomed to be, a carefree chart-topping girl group. Although TLC didn’t fit the traditional mold, they definitely made their mark in the 90s and beyond.
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