What REALLY Happened to ’90s R&B Group Total? (500-word summary)

Total was one of the hottest R&B girl groups of the 1990s, known for their edgy style and chart-topping hits under Bad Boy Records. The group consisted of Kima Raynor, Keisha Spivey, and Pamela Long.

Despite their success, they faced criticism for their image and vocal abilities, but they still managed to rack up platinum and gold records before suddenly fading from the spotlight after just two albums.

The group’s story began in Plainfield, New Jersey, when Kima and Keisha decided to form a group after Kima impressed Keisha with her singing.

They soon met Pam Long, who was initially hesitant to join, wanting to be a solo artist and feeling out of place with Kima’s “bougie” vibe. However, Pam eventually agreed, and together they called themselves “Total Opposite” to reflect their differences.

Their big break came when their manager introduced them to Sean “Puffy” Combs, founder of Bad Boy Records. At their audition, they sang passionately for Puffy, who didn’t show much reaction but later told their manager he wanted to sign them.

Renamed “Total,” they became one of Bad Boy’s first acts alongside The Notorious B.I.G. and Craig Mack.

Total quickly became staples in the R&B scene, singing background vocals for artists like Biggie (“Juicy,” “One More Chance”) before releasing their own music. Their debut single, “Can’t You See” featuring Biggie, became a top 10 hit, and their self-titled debut album went platinum. They followed up with more hits like “No One Else,” “Kissing You,” and “What About Us” from the Soul Food soundtrack.

Despite their success, the group faced industry drama. Wendy Williams, a popular radio host, often criticized them, but Total confronted her and sang live to prove their talent.

There were also run-ins with the law, such as a 1997 incident at Union Station where Pam and Keisha were reportedly maced by a police officer.

Their second album, “Kima, Keisha & Pam,” was released in 1998 and certified gold. However, by then, Puff Daddy was less involved, and Missy Elliott stepped in as producer.

Creative differences and personal struggles started to take a toll. Pam, in particular, struggled with the pressures of fame and admitted to skipping studio sessions and shows, eventually reaching a breaking point after her mother confronted her about her behavior.

By 1999, infighting and burnout led to the group’s breakup. During their hiatus, each member focused on their personal lives: Kima started a family, Keisha married actor Omar Epps, and Pam married Jamie Long (of Pretty Ricky) before a messy divorce.

The group reunited for performances in 2013 and joined the Bad Boy Reunion Tour in 2016, but new music has been delayed due to Pam’s solo ventures and personal priorities. Today, Kima enjoys family life, Keisha remains happily married, and Pam has focused on Christian music, releasing several singles.

Even without a third album, Total’s legacy as one of the best R&B girl groups remains strong, remembered for their unique sound, style, and impact on the golden era of R&B.