Xscape, the iconic Atlanta-based girl group, brought a flavor that was undeniably “hummin’ comin’ at ‘cha” to the 90s R&B scene. Comprised of the talented Kandi Burruss, Tameka “Tiny” Harris, and sisters LaTocha Scott-Bivens and Tamika Scott, Xscape wasn’t just another group; they were architects of the 90s girl group sound and significant contributors to the evolution of the R&B genre. With groundbreaking platinum albums like 1993’s Hummin’ Comin’ at ‘Cha and 1995’s Off The Hook, Xscape Songs dominated radio airwaves and solidified their place in music history.
Recently, Xscape has once again stepped into the limelight, joining forces with fellow 90s hitmakers SWV for the must-watch limited series, SWV & XSCAPE: The Queens of R&B. Airing on Bravo, the series offers fans an unprecedented peek into the lives of these two phenomenal groups as they gear up for a spectacular one-night event.
But for those eager to dive straight into the music, let’s explore some of Xscape’s most unforgettable hits that continue to resonate with fans today. These tracks are not just songs; they are anthems of a generation.
1. “Just Kickin’ It”: The Debut Anthem
Xscape burst onto the scene in 1993 with “Just Kickin’ It,” a track that not only introduced them to the world but also became an instant classic. Discovered by the legendary producer Jermaine Dupri, Xscape quickly distinguished themselves in Atlanta’s vibrant music landscape. This debut single from their platinum-selling album Hummin’ Comin’ at ‘Cha was a phenomenal success, spending an impressive 21 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 and soaring to the number one spot on the R&B charts.
Jermaine Dupri himself, in a 1993 interview, likened Xscape to a hip-hop infused En Vogue shortly after the single’s release, recognizing their unique blend of style and vocal prowess.
“‘Just Kicking’ It’ went to number one on the R&B charts,” Dupri proudly stated. “It’s been out for five weeks, and they’re the first group on my label. So, for me to have a first group go to number one in five weeks, I can’t be more happy for that.”
LaTocha Scott vividly remembers the moment she first heard “Just Kickin’ It” on the radio, recalling the group’s ecstatic reaction. As she shared with Creative Loafing in 2013, “Things kinda took off for us, and then Jermaine sat us down and was like, ‘Y’all went platinum.’ We didn’t know what platinum was. We were like, ‘OK, is that good?’ He said, ‘Y’all sold a million records!’”
With its catchy hook and feel-good vibe, “Just Kickin’ It” remains a beloved 90s anthem, evidenced by over 44 million listens on Spotify. You can relive the magic of this Xscape song here.
2. “Understanding”: Vocal Complexity and Real Feeling
Building on their initial success, Xscape released “Understanding” as their second single, further cementing their status in the R&B world. This track also climbed to number one on Billboard’s Hot R&B Singles chart, proving Xscape’s consistent ability to deliver chart-topping hits.
In a 1995 interview, Kandi Burruss highlighted “Understanding” as the sonic direction the group aimed to pursue, emphasizing their growth and artistic aspirations.
“On the last album, I felt like I could do ‘Just Kicking’ It’ in my sleep,” Burruss explained. “Songs like ‘Understanding,’ which is more vocally complex, had real feeling to it, and that’s what we wanted more of in our new album.”
“Understanding” showcased a more mature and soulful side of Xscape. It spent 20 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, reaching number one in early 1994, and an impressive 26 weeks on the Radio Songs chart, making it Xscape’s longest-running hit on this particular chart. This ballad became, and remains, one of Xscape’s most cherished love songs. Experience the emotional depth of “Understanding” here.
3. “Who Can I Run To”: A Cover That Became Their Own
From their second platinum album, 1995’s Off The Hook, “Who Can I Run To” stands out as another stellar Xscape song. This cover track soared to number one on both the R&B and Hip Hop charts and became their longest-reigning number one hit in those categories, holding the top spot for 26 weeks.
Originally performed by The Jones Girls in 1979, Xscape reimagined “Who Can I Run To” with their signature harmonies and contemporary R&B flair. The Jones Girls, an all-female Detroit-based R&B trio, achieved considerable success in the 70s and 80s, and Xscape’s rendition paid homage while introducing the song to a new generation.
This song has become a staple in Xscape’s discography, celebrated in live performances on shows like The Steve Harvey Show and The Rickey Smiley Morning Show. Tamika Scott herself has mentioned it as a personal favorite in a 2020 interview.
“Who Can I Run To” has seen numerous covers, including gospel and rap versions by Ricky Dillard and Juvenile, respectively. However, Xscape’s version remains definitive for many fans. Listen to their iconic rendition here.
4. “The Arms of The One Who Loves You”: A Power Ballad Masterpiece
1998 marked the release of Xscape’s third and final studio album, Traces of My Lipstick. Continuing their streak of platinum successes, this album featured “The Arms of The One Who Loves You,” a powerful ballad penned by the renowned Hall of Fame songwriter Diane Warren.
“The Arms of The One Who Loves You” resonated across various Billboard charts, including the Hot 100 and the Hot R&B and Hip Hop charts. This song perfectly encapsulates Xscape’s gospel-infused vocal talent, blending heartfelt emotion with powerful delivery.
Both the song and its accompanying music video are considered romantic classics, showcasing the group’s versatility and artistry. Indulge in the romance of “The Arms of The One Who Loves You” right here.
5. “My Little Secret”: Scandalous and Seductive
“My Little Secret,” Xscape’s final single of the 90s, offered a different flavor, exploring themes of secret romance and intrigue. Reaching number nine on Billboard’s Hot 100 and charting for 14 weeks, this track showcased the group’s ability to evolve and tackle more mature themes.
“My Little Secret” tells a scandalous story from the perspective of “the other woman,” complemented by a music video that highlighted a more seductive side of Xscape.
The song’s influence extends into the 2010s, having been sampled in Lil’ Twist and Bow Wow’s track “Little Secret.” Bow Wow, like Xscape, was also discovered by Jermaine Dupri, creating a full-circle moment.
“My Little Secret” was the last single released before Xscape’s initial breakup in 1998. However, fans rejoiced at their reunion in 2017, marked by a performance on The Wendy Williams Show where they fittingly sang “My Little Secret.” Relive this iconic Xscape song here.
Don’t miss SWV & Xscape: The Queens of R&B, a six-part limited series airing Sundays at 9:30/8:30c on Bravo. Catch new episodes streaming on Peacock the next day and delve deeper into the world of these R&B queens.
