Legendary R&B group En Vogue is known for their powerhouse vocals, timeless hits, and undeniable influence on the music industry. However, their success came at a steep financial cost under their first record deal.
A Shocking Pay Structure
According to former member Dawn Robinson, En Vogue was only paid 8 cents per album sold—with each member making just 2 cents per sale. This revelation, which Robinson shared in 2021, highlights the unfair contracts many artists faced in the music industry, especially during the 1990s.
Platinum Sales, But No Wealth
Despite their debut album going platinum, the group struggled financially due to their contract terms. Robinson revealed that at one point, she, Maxine Jones, and Terry Ellis even had to share an apartment. With over 20 million records sold worldwide, their early earnings were far from what one would expect for a group of their caliber.
Missed Opportunity to Renegotiate
After their breakthrough success, En Vogue had leverage to negotiate a better deal for their second album. However, they were unable to come together to push for better terms, ultimately missing the opportunity to secure a fairer contract at the time.
An Unfair Industry Trend
En Vogue’s story is not unique—many artists from the ‘90s, particularly in R&B and hip-hop, have spoken out about unfair contracts that left them earning just a fraction of what their music generated. Their experience serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of strong legal representation and financial awareness in the music business.
A Lasting Legacy
Despite these early setbacks, En Vogue remains one of the best-selling female groups of all time, leaving an indelible mark on R&B with hits like "Hold On," "Don't Let Go (Love)," and "Free Your Mind." Their story is a testament to both the challenges and triumphs that come with longevity in the music industry.
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