SWV, short for **Sisters With Voices**, is one of the most influential female R&B groups to emerge from the 1990s. Formed in New York City, the trio—**Cheryl “Coko” Gamble, Tamara “Taj” Johnson-George, and Leanne “Lelee” Lyons**—rose to prominence with their smooth harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and a style that blended street-savvy edge with classic soul. Their sound helped define the era’s R&B landscape and positioned them as trailblazers for future girl groups.
The group broke through in 1992 with their debut album ***It’s About Time***, which became a massive success and is widely regarded as one of the strongest R&B debuts of all time. The album spawned iconic hits such as **“Weak,” “Right Here,” “I’m So Into You,”** and **“Downtown,”** showcasing SWV’s ability to balance vulnerability, confidence, and romantic storytelling. “Weak,” in particular, became a signature song and a cultural staple, topping the charts and remaining timeless decades later.
SWV continued their momentum with albums like ***New Beginning*** and ***Release Some Tension***, delivering fan-favorite tracks such as **“You’re the One,” “Use Your Heart,”** and **“Rain.”** Their music evolved with the times while maintaining the emotional honesty and vocal strength that defined their brand. Known for Coko’s powerful lead vocals complemented by Taj and Lelee’s rich harmonies, SWV set a standard for vocal groups in contemporary R&B.
After a hiatus in the late 1990s, SWV reunited to critical and fan acclaim, reaffirming their place in music history. They returned with new projects, tours, and television appearances that introduced their legacy to younger audiences while satisfying longtime fans. Their continued presence on stage highlights not only their enduring popularity but also their consistency as performers.
Today, SWV is celebrated as a cornerstone of R&B culture. Their influence can be heard in countless modern artists, and their catalog remains a go-to soundtrack for love, heartbreak, and empowerment. With decades of hits and an unmistakable sound, SWV’s voices still resonate, proving that true soul never goes out of style.