Did you know that behind some of the biggest hits of the late 80s and early 90s, and even behind the formation of one of the most iconic girl groups of all time, stood a single visionary? Perri "Pebbles" Reid wasn't just a singer; she was a multifaceted force in the music industry, a songwriter, producer, and businesswoman who left an indelible mark.Perri Arlette McKissack, better known to the world as Pebbles, was born in Oakland, California, on August 29, 1966 (although some sources indicate 1964). Her early life in the Bay Area shaped her musical sensibilities, and even her childhood nickname, inspired by the cartoon character Pebbles Flintstone (due to a resemblance), foreshadowed a life in the spotlight. Pebbles is also the cousin of fellow r&b singer Cherrelle. Before stepping into the limelight as a solo artist, Pebbles honed her skills as a backup singer and writer, lending her talents to established musical groups like Con Funk Shun and Sister Sledge. This experience provided her with invaluable insights into the inner workings of the music industry, setting the stage for her own successful career.
Category
Information
Full Name
Perri Arlette McKissack Reid Sharieff
Stage Name
Pebbles
Date of Birth
August 29, 1966 (Some sources state August 29, 1964)
Place of Birth
Oakland, California, USA
Nationality
American
Occupation
Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer, Music Executive, Businesswoman
Genre
R&B, Pop, Gospel
Years Active
1980s – Present
Associated Acts
TLC, L.A. Reid, Babyface, Salt-N-Pepa, Con Funk Shun, Sister Sledge
Aaron Reid (son with L.A. Reid), Ashley Hobbs (daughter)
Notable Achievements
Founded and Managed TLC
Multiple Platinum Albums
Multiple Top 10 Hits on Billboard Hot 100 and R&B Charts
Additional Information
Founded a gospel ministry after a religious conversion in 1997.
Filed a lawsuit against Viacom over her portrayal in the TLC biopic "CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story," which was later settled.
External Links
AllMusic Profile
Pebbles' debut album, simply titled "Pebbles," was released in 1987 on MCA Records and immediately established her as a force to be reckoned with. The album was a commercial success, spawning not one, but two US Hot 100 hits. "Girlfriend" peaked at number 5, becoming an instant anthem, and "Mercedes Boy" climbed even higher, reaching number 2 on the charts. The album also featured the top 5 R&B hit "Take Your Time," solidifying Pebbles' presence in the R&B landscape. The music video for "Girlfriend" further amplified the song's popularity, showcasing Pebbles' vibrant energy and captivating stage presence."Girlfriend" resonated with audiences because it captured the essence of youthful romance and longing. The infectious melody and relatable lyrics made it a staple on radio stations and dance floors alike. Similarly, "Mercedes Boy" became a cultural phenomenon, its catchy hook and aspirational lyrics reflecting the materialism that was prevalent in the 80s. These hits weren't just songs; they were snapshots of a generation.The success of her debut album was no accident. Pebbles possessed a keen understanding of what resonated with audiences. She knew how to craft catchy melodies, write relatable lyrics, and deliver performances that were both energetic and engaging. She wasn't just a singer; she was a storyteller, using her music to connect with listeners on a personal level.Beyond her solo success, Pebbles played a pivotal role in the formation and early management of TLC, one of the most successful girl groups in music history. Recognizing the immense talent of Tionne "T-Boz" Watkins, Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes, and Rozonda "Chilli" Thomas, Pebbles brought them together and helped them navigate the complexities of the music industry. TLC's debut album, "Ooooooohhh... On the TLC Tip," released in 1992, was a massive success, thanks in part to Pebbles' guidance and mentorship. TLC went on to become a global phenomenon, selling millions of albums and breaking down barriers for female artists in hip-hop and R&B. Their hits, including "Creep," "Waterfalls," "No Scrubs," and "Unpretty," are still considered classics today.Pebbles' influence on TLC extended beyond their initial formation. She helped shape their image, sound, and overall artistic direction. She understood the importance of authenticity and encouraged the girls to be true to themselves, which ultimately contributed to their widespread appeal. However, their relationship would later become strained, leading to legal battles and differing accounts of their time together.In July 1989, Pebbles married L.A. Reid, a prominent record executive and producer. Their marriage was initially a power couple scenario, with both individuals contributing significantly to the music industry. Together, they had one son, Aaron, born in 1990. However, their relationship was not without its challenges, and they eventually divorced in 1996. The divorce was reportedly turbulent, and the personal and professional fallout was widely publicized.The collaboration between Pebbles and L.A. Reid was undeniably fruitful, leading to significant success for both artists. Reid played a key role in producing and shaping Pebbles' sound, while Pebbles' artistic vision and talent contributed to the overall success of their joint ventures. Their partnership exemplifies the complexities and potential rewards of combining personal and professional relationships within the music industry.Pebbles' second album, "Always," released in 1990, continued her streak of success. It featured the hit single "Giving You the Benefit," which showcased her versatility as an artist. However, it was the collaboration with a then-rising singer named Babyface on the song "Love Makes Things Happen" that truly solidified the album's impact. "Love Makes Things Happen" became another R&B chart-topper, further demonstrating Pebbles' ability to identify and collaborate with emerging talent.The "Always" album highlighted Pebbles' growth as an artist. While her debut album was characterized by its youthful energy and infectious pop sensibilities, "Always" explored more mature themes of love, relationships, and personal growth. This evolution resonated with her fans, who appreciated her willingness to experiment and push creative boundaries.In 1991, Pebbles collaborated with Salt-N-Pepa on the song "Backyard," further demonstrating her ability to bridge genres and connect with diverse audiences. This collaboration showcased her willingness to embrace new sounds and trends, solidifying her position as a trendsetter in the music industry. However, her third album with MCA, "Straight from My Heart," released in 1995, failed to achieve the same level of success as her previous efforts. This album marked a turning point in her career, as she began to explore new musical directions and personal pursuits.Following "Straight from My Heart," Pebbles underwent a significant personal transformation. In 1997, she experienced a religious conversion and dedicated herself to gospel music. This marked a dramatic shift in her career, as she transitioned from secular R&B to gospel music, reflecting her newfound faith and spiritual beliefs.In 2000, Pebbles married former MLB player Otis Nixon. However, their marriage was short-lived, and they divorced in 2004. Pebbles' personal life has been marked by both success and challenges, reflecting the complexities of navigating fame and personal relationships in the public eye.In 2008, Pebbles released her fourth album, "2Gether," which marked her official entry into the gospel music scene. This album showcased her powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, reflecting her deep-seated faith and commitment to spreading the message of gospel music. The album demonstrated her ability to adapt and reinvent herself, while remaining true to her core values.On April 2025, Pebbles married her fifth husband, Excel Sharieff, an administrative law judge. This union represents a new chapter in her personal life, as she continues to navigate the complexities of love and relationships.In 2013, Pebbles found herself at the center of controversy surrounding the VH1 biopic "CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story." She filed a lawsuit against the company over her portrayal in the film, alleging defamation and misrepresentation. Perri "Pebbles" Reid and Viacom eventually reached a settlement for an undisclosed amount. The lawsuit highlighted the challenges of portraying real-life figures in biographical films and the importance of accuracy and fairness.The lawsuit against Viacom underscored the ongoing debate about artistic license versus historical accuracy in biographical films. While filmmakers often take creative liberties to enhance the narrative, it is essential to ensure that the portrayal of real-life individuals is fair and accurate, especially when it comes to sensitive or controversial topics. The settlement between Pebbles and Viacom underscores the importance of protecting individuals' reputations and ensuring that their stories are told truthfully."Pebbles" is not only a gifted singer but also a talented songwriter, and business woman, record producer and music executive. She writes the majority of her songs, infusing them with her personal experiences and emotions. Her ability to connect with listeners on a personal level is one of the key reasons for her enduring success.As of 2025, Pebbles has released four studio albums, each showcasing her growth and evolving musical style. From her debut album, "Pebbles," to her gospel album, "2Gether," she has consistently demonstrated her versatility and commitment to her craft. Each album represents a unique chapter in her personal and professional journey, reflecting her evolving perspectives and musical influences.Throughout her career, Pebbles has demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt and reinvent herself. From her early days as a backup singer to her solo success in the R&B world, to her transition to gospel music, she has consistently challenged herself and pushed creative boundaries. Her willingness to experiment with new sounds and styles has kept her relevant and engaged with audiences for over three decades.Pebbles' legacy extends beyond her own musical achievements. Her role in the formation and early management of TLC has had a profound impact on the music industry, paving the way for future generations of female artists. Her commitment to mentoring and developing young talent has left an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals.The hits Pebbles recorded in the 80s and 90s, including "Girlfriend," "Mercedes Boy," "Giving You the Benefit," and "Love Makes Things Happen," continue to be popular today, and those songs are still staples on oldies radio stations and streaming playlists, demonstrating their timeless appeal and enduring popularity. Her music has resonated with audiences across generations, reflecting her ability to connect with listeners on a deep and emotional level.Perri pebbles reid rose to fame as the lead vocalist of the popular 80\u2019s r&b group, pebbles, and throughout her career, she has also made a significant impact behind the scenes in the music industry, showcasing her skills as a producer and ex.Pebbles' journey from backup singer to solo artist, to music executive, and ultimately to gospel artist, is a testament to her resilience, talent, and unwavering commitment to her craft. She has overcome numerous obstacles and challenges, and through it all, she has remained true to herself and her vision. Her story is an inspiration to aspiring artists and entrepreneurs alike, demonstrating the power of perseverance and the importance of following one's dreams.Her son, Aaron, also ventured into music, releasing a budding single titled "Crazy Luv" a few years ago. While he seems to have put that project on the back burner for now, it speaks to the musical legacy within the family.Singer, songwriter, businesswoman, record producer and music executive pebbles was born perri arlette mckissack in oakland, california and her contributions to the music industry as a singer, songwriter, producer, and businesswoman have solidified her status as a true icon. Her story is a testament to the power of talent, perseverance, and the unwavering pursuit of one's dreams.
Pebbles Reid
