TLC may be one of the best-selling girl groups of all time, but their early success came with a shocking financial reality. Under their first record deal, the trio—Tionne "T-Boz" Watkins, Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes, and Rozonda "Chilli" Thomas—were paid just 56 cents per album sold, with each member personally earning only -19 cents per sale after label deductions.
During the 1990s, albums typically sold for $10 to $20, depending on the format (cassette, CD, or vinyl). Despite TLC’s massive commercial success, which included hits like "Creep," "Waterfalls," and "No Scrubs," the group saw little financial gain due to their exploitative contract.
In 1996, facing mounting debt and frustration over their unfair earnings, TLC filed for bankruptcy in an effort to renegotiate their contract with LaFace/Arista Records. The legal battle ultimately led to a revised deal, allowing them greater financial stability and control over their careers.
TLC’s story remains a cautionary tale in the music industry, highlighting the importance of fair contracts and artist rights—even for those at the top of the charts.
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