Pebbles: The Untold Story Of Lawsuits, TLC & Music Career

17 May, 2025

Ever wondered about the untold stories behind the shimmering success of the 80s and 90s R&B scene?Perri "Pebbles" Reid is more than just a singer; she's a powerhouse whose influence resonates far beyond the stage and into the very fabric of the music industry.

Perri Arlette Reid, known to the world as Pebbles, is an American singer, songwriter, businesswoman, music executive, and producer whose career has been marked by both resounding success and significant controversy. Born in Oakland, California, Pebbles emerged as a prominent figure in the late 1980s and early 1990s with a string of hits that captivated audiences. However, her influence extends beyond her own musical accomplishments, most notably through her role in discovering and managing the iconic girl group TLC.

Perri "Pebbles" Reid - Bio & Personal Information
Full Name	Perri Arlette Reid (née McKissack)
Stage Name	Pebbles
Birth Date	August 29, 1964
Birth Place	Oakland, California, USA
Nationality	American
Occupation	Singer, Songwriter, Businesswoman, Music Executive, Producer
Genre	R&B, Soul
Years Active	1980s – Present
Family	Cousin of singer Cherrelle, Aunt of Brandi (Blaque)
Marital Status	Married to Excel Sharieff (2012 – Present)
Previous Spouses	George L. Smith, L.A. Reid, Otis Nixon
Children	Aaron Reid (Son with L.A. Reid)
Labels	MCA Records, Savvy Records
Career Highlights
Early Career	Background vocalist for Bill Summers and Con Funk Shun
Breakthrough	Debut album "Pebbles" (1987)
Hit Singles	"Girlfriend," "Mercedes Boy," "Take Your Time," "Giving You the Benefit"
Record Label	Founded Savvy Records (1993)
Discovery & Management	Founder and manager of TLC
Production Company	Pebbitone
Source: AllMusic Biography

Her musical journey began in Oakland, where she was born on August 29, 1964, as Perri Arlette McKissack. Even as a toddler, she earned the nickname "Pebbles" due to her resemblance to the cartoon character Pebbles Flintstone, a moniker that would eventually become her stage name. Growing up in a musically inclined family—she is the cousin of fellow R&B singer Cherrelle—Pebbles was immersed in the world of music from a young age. This early exposure shaped her path and fueled her ambition to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.

Pebbles' initial forays into the music scene involved working as a background vocalist. One of her first professional engagements was with the band Bill Summers and Con Funk Shun, where she provided backing vocals, honing her skills and gaining invaluable experience. She also contributed her songwriting talents, co-writing one of their singles, “Body Lovers.” This early work provided her with a foundation upon which she would build her solo career.

The year 1987 marked a turning point in Pebbles' career with the release of her self-titled debut album on MCA Records. The album was an instant success, launching her into the spotlight with a string of hit singles that dominated the charts. Among these were "Girlfriend," which reached number 5 on the US Hot 100, and "Mercedes Boy," which peaked at number 2, becoming one of her signature songs. The album also included the top 5 R&B hit "Take Your Time," further cementing her status as a rising star in the R&B world.

The success of her debut album propelled Pebbles to national recognition, earning her widespread acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Her music videos, including "Girlfriend" and "Giving You the Benefit," became staples on MTV and other music television channels, further amplifying her popularity. Pebbles' energetic performances and catchy songs made her a favorite among audiences, and she quickly became a sought-after performer at concerts and events across the country.

Following the success of her debut album, Pebbles continued to release music throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s. Her second album, released in 1990, also produced several hit singles, solidifying her position as one of the leading female artists in R&B. During this time, she became known not only for her singing but also for her stylish image and trendsetting fashion sense. Her influence extended beyond music, impacting popular culture and inspiring a generation of young women.

In addition to her solo career, Pebbles made a significant impact behind the scenes of the music industry. In 1993, she founded Savvy Records, a label aimed at discovering and developing new talent. Although the third record from Pebbles did not materialize until 1995, the label was still an important step in her career, allowing her to explore her entrepreneurial side and nurture the careers of other artists. This move demonstrated her versatility and her commitment to contributing to the music industry in more ways than one.

Perhaps one of Pebbles' most significant contributions to the music industry was her role in discovering and managing the girl group TLC. In the early 1990s, Pebbles recognized the talent and potential of Tionne "T-Boz" Watkins, Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes, and Rozonda "Chilli" Thomas, bringing them together to form the group that would become TLC. As their manager, Pebbles played a crucial role in shaping their image, sound, and career trajectory, helping them achieve unprecedented success.

Under Pebbles' guidance, TLC became one of the best-selling female groups of all time, with hit singles like "Creep," "Waterfalls," "No Scrubs," and "Unpretty." Their albums sold millions of copies worldwide, and their music videos broke records on MTV. TLC's success not only solidified Pebbles' reputation as a talented manager but also highlighted her ability to identify and nurture exceptional talent. However, the relationship between Pebbles and TLC would later become strained, leading to legal disputes and controversy.

The success of TLC was shadowed by financial disputes and allegations of mismanagement. In 1995, Pebbles found herself embroiled in legal battles with the members of TLC, who accused her of mismanaging their finances and exploiting their talent. These disputes eventually led to Pebbles filing a lawsuit against both the group and their record label, contributing in part to TLC's bankruptcy in 1995. The legal battles between Pebbles and TLC became highly publicized, tarnishing her reputation and casting a shadow over her achievements.

The controversy surrounding her management of TLC had a lasting impact on Pebbles' career and public image. While she continued to work in the music industry, she faced increased scrutiny and criticism. The allegations of financial mismanagement and exploitation tarnished her reputation, making it difficult for her to shake off the negative associations. Despite the challenges, Pebbles remained resilient and continued to pursue her passion for music and business.

In addition to her musical and managerial endeavors, Pebbles also ventured into the world of production, establishing her own production company called Pebbitone. Through this company, she continued to work on various projects, showcasing her skills as a producer and entrepreneur. Pebbles' diverse talents and entrepreneurial spirit have allowed her to remain active in the music industry for decades, even amidst controversy and challenges.

Beyond her professional achievements, Pebbles has also experienced personal ups and downs. In July 1989, she married L.A. Reid, a prominent music executive and producer. Together, they had one son, Aaron, born in 1990. However, their marriage eventually ended in divorce in 1996. Later, in 2000, Pebbles married former MLB player Otis Nixon, but this marriage also ended in divorce in 2004. In 2012, she married Excel Sharieff, an administrative law judge, and they remain married to this day.

The portrayal of Pebbles in the 2013 VH1 biopic "CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story" ignited further controversy. The film depicted her in a negative light, portraying her as a manipulative and exploitative manager. Pebbles strongly objected to her portrayal in the film, arguing that it was inaccurate and defamatory. In response, she filed a lawsuit against Viacom, the parent company of VH1, seeking damages for defamation and misrepresentation.

The lawsuit between Pebbles and Viacom dragged on for several years, generating significant media attention. Ultimately, the two parties reached a settlement, the terms of which were not disclosed. While the settlement brought an end to the legal battle, it did little to repair the damage to Pebbles' reputation. The controversy surrounding the biopic continued to linger, shaping public perception of her and her role in the story of TLC.

Despite the controversies and challenges, Pebbles remains a significant figure in the history of R&B music. Her hit singles, her role in discovering and managing TLC, and her entrepreneurial ventures have all left an indelible mark on the music industry. While her legacy may be complex and multifaceted, there is no denying her impact and influence. She was a force in the late '80s and early '90s and managed one of the biggest girl groups of all time.

Perri "Pebbles" Reid's journey through the music industry has been a rollercoaster ride of success, controversy, and resilience. From her early days as a background vocalist to her chart-topping hits as a solo artist, she has consistently demonstrated her talent and ambition. Her role in discovering and managing TLC catapulted her to even greater heights, but also brought her into the center of legal and personal battles. Despite the challenges, Pebbles has remained a force to be reckoned with, continuing to pursue her passions and leaving a lasting legacy in the world of music.

Born Perri Arlette McKissack in Oakland, California, in 1964 (some sources cite 1966), the artist who would become known as 'Pebbles' made her debut aged 16 in the band Con Funk Shun. This early experience proved invaluable, shaping her future path in the music industry. Nicknamed 'Pebbles' as a toddler due to her resemblance to the cartoon character Pebbles Flintstone, Perri's family background also contributed to her musical inclinations, as she is the cousin of R&B singer Cherrelle.

Pebbles' discography includes "Pebbles" (1987), which featured the hit singles "Girlfriend" and "Mercedes Boy," "Always" (1990), and "Straight from My Heart" (1995). These albums showcased her evolution as an artist and solidified her place in the R&B landscape. Furthermore, her songwriting skills were evident as she penned many of her own songs, infusing them with personal experiences and emotions. As of 2025, Pebbles has released four studio albums, each showcasing her growth and evolving musical style.

Beyond her own recordings, Pebbles' influence extended to the careers of other artists. She wrote "Body Lovers" for Con Funk Shun and contributed to the success of Sister Sledge, further demonstrating her versatility and collaborative spirit. This commitment to nurturing talent underscores her lasting impact on the music industry.

While Pebbles' professional life has been marked by significant achievements, her personal life has also been eventful. Her marriages to L.A. Reid, Otis Nixon, and Excel Sharieff reflect the complexities of her life outside the spotlight. Her experiences, both professional and personal, have undoubtedly shaped her perspective and contributed to her resilience in the face of adversity.

The controversies surrounding Pebbles, particularly those related to her management of TLC, have sparked considerable debate. The lawsuit she filed against Viacom over her portrayal in the "CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story" biopic further fueled the discussion about her role in the group's success and the accuracy of the film's depiction of events. These controversies serve as a reminder of the challenges and complexities inherent in the music industry and the often blurred lines between business and personal relationships.

Despite the controversies, Pebbles' contributions to R&B music remain undeniable. Her talent as a singer, songwriter, businesswoman, and producer has left a lasting impact on the industry, and her legacy continues to be felt through her music and the artists she has influenced. She remains an important figure in the narrative of R&B music, a testament to her resilience, ambition, and enduring passion for the art form. Pebbles filed suit against both parties for a healthy sum of money, contributing in part to tlc's bankruptcy in 1995.

In 1993 pebbles created the label savvy records, but it wouldn't be until 1995 that the third record from the singer would materialize. Her actual name is perri arlette reid, but she got famous because of the name pebbles. she began her career with her first work assignment with the band (bill summers and the funk band con funk shun) as a backing vocalist.

Perri pebbles reid rose to fame as the lead vocalist of the popular 80’s r&b group, pebbles. 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. Music video by pebbles performing girlfriend.

Reid was raised in oakland, california. Nicknamed pebbles as a toddler (after the cartoon character pebbles flintstone, whom she somewhat resembled), pebbles is the cousin of r&b singer cherrelle. The singer filed a lawsuit against the company over her portryal in its 2013 biopic 'crazysexycool:.

The tlc story.' perri “pebbles” reid and viacom have reached a settlement for an. Perri arlette reid (née mckissack; Pebbles is an american singer, songwriter, businesswoman, music executive, and producer. She is the founder of tlc, an american girl group known for their singles creep, waterfalls, no scrubs, and unpretty.

Music video by pebbles performing giving you the benefit. (c) 1990 geffen records#pebbles #givingyouthebenefit #vevo. Pebbles complete bio & career. Her actual name is perri arlette reid, but she got famous because of the name pebbles. In 1987, pebbles wanted to be your girlfriend, but after a few more top ten hits, it was all over.

Born perri arlette mckissack in oakland, california in 1964, the artist who would become known as 'pebbles' made her debut aged 16 in the band con funk shun. She got her nickname as a child due to her resemblance to the. She is known for her hits during the late. The singer also has a production company called pebbitone.

Peri mckissack was born on august 29, 1964. Singing runs in her family. She is the cousin of singer cherrelle. Pebbles got her start in music when she was a background singer for bill summers and the con funk shun. She wrote one of their singles “body lovers.” Perri 'pebbles' reid was born in 1966 and raised in oakland, california.

As a child, she was nicknamed 'pebbles' because she resembled the cartoon character pebbles flintstone. Pebbles started her music career as a backup singer and writer for musical groups like con funk shun and sister sledge. Reid was raised in oakland, california. Nicknamed “pebbles” as a toddler (after the cartoon character pebbles flintstone, whom she somewhat resembled), pebbles is the cousin of r&b singer cherrelle.

Pebbles is the debut album by american singer pebbles, released in 1987 on mca records. The album spawned two us hot 100 hits; girlfriend (us no. 5) and mercedes boy (us no. 2), as well as the top 5 r&b hit take your time. Singer pebbles performs at the riviera theatre in chicago, illinois in april 1988.

Perri pebbles reid attends 2020 leaders and legends ball at atlanta history. Straight from my heart is the third studio album by american singer pebbles. It was released on september 12, 1995, on mca records. The album features the top 40 r&b hit, are you ready?. The song was written by pebbles and produced by charlie wilson, with additional production from pebbles.

Mercedes boy was released as the album's second single on march 7, 1988, by the mca label. Does pebbles write her own songs? Yes, pebbles is not only a gifted singer but also a talented songwriter. She writes the majority of her songs, infusing them with her personal experiences and emotions. How many albums has pebbles released?

As of 2025, pebbles has released four studio albums, each showcasing her growth and evolving. Cherrelle's cousin is pop singer perri pebbles reid; And she is the aunt of brandi of the girl group blaque. Cherrelle is also a first cousin of musica monica feaster, music producer/gospel artist. In addition to cherrelle's musical background, she and johnny gill were. In july 1989, pebbles married l.a.

They had one son named aaron, born in 1990. Reid and pebbles later divorced in 1996. In 2000, pebbles married former mlb player otis nixon. [15] they divorced in 2004. Pebbles married her fifth husband excel sharieff, an administrative law judge, in 2012. Pebbles & cherrelle] baby, don't leave me don't ever desert me i'll promise my life to you and i'll love you always (love you always) baby, don't leave me don't ever desert me i'll.

Singer, songwriter, business woman, record producer and music executive pebbles was born perri arlette mckissack in oakland, california. Cousin of r&b singer cherrelle. Formerly married to businessman george l. Smith and producer/record executive l.a. She was a r&b and soul star who released three original albums and several successful singles in the late '80s and early '90s and also founded and managed group tlc.

Details

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Pebbles Talk About Pop Music

Details

Pebbles music, videos, stats, and photos Last.fm

Details

Detail Author:

Name : Edd Collins
Username : wendy72
Email : matteo.crooks@hessel.info
Birthdate : 2004-08-20
Address : 4215 King Circle Spinkaberg, ID 94427-4958
Phone : 1-386-495-1025
Company : Kunze PLC
Job : Transportation Attendant
Bio : In velit tenetur occaecati modi ut dignissimos quis. Aliquam quod vitae et libero animi. Cum aut perspiciatis in ea explicabo minima. Aspernatur recusandae id corporis sed neque labore.

Socials

twitter:

url : https://twitter.com/oheidenreich
username : oheidenreich
bio : Dolor porro dolorem omnis temporibus aliquid qui dolorum. Est voluptatem ullam dolores rem. Soluta illum tenetur qui qui error qui odit.
followers : 5994
following : 2558

tiktok:

url : https://tiktok.com/@oheidenreich
username : oheidenreich
bio : Quae vel voluptate adipisci et molestias beatae.
followers : 5583
following : 1468

facebook:

url : https://facebook.com/olga3915
username : olga3915
bio : Cupiditate eum eligendi eos provident. Alias aperiam sed aliquid neque.
followers : 5412
following : 2822