Brownstone

Soul/R&B trio Brownstone was formed in Los Angeles, California in 1994 by Nicole ‘Nicci’ Gilbert, Monica ‘Mimi’ Doby, and Charmayne Maxena ‘Maxee’ Maxwell. The three members met while attending various auditions throughout L.A. Within a year of forming, they were signed by Michael Jackson’s label MJJ Music. Brownstone released their debut album, From the Bottom Up, in 1995. The album, which included the massive hit single “If You Love Me”, hit the Number 4 spot on Billboard’s Top R&B/Hip Hop Albums chart and was certified Platinum by the RIAA and received a Grammy nomination. After touring and promoting the album, Mimi Doby left Brownstone and was replaced by Kina Cosper. The new line-up of Brownstone released their second album, Still Climbing, in 1997. It featured the singles “5 Miles to Empty” and “Kiss and Tell”. Brownstone’s recording career ended in 1998 and they parted ways. Two compilations were released during their absence including All for Love (2000) and Super Hits (2009). The group has been resurrected a few times since their split with only Nicci Gilbert remaining from the original line-up. Maxee Maxwell died from an accidental fall on February 27, 2015.