98 Degrees' Fame Grind & Redemption

0:00On April 7, 98 degrees hustled their way into the spotlight back in the 90s, forming organically with Jeff Timmins, Nick Lache, Justin Jeffrey, and Drew Lache before landing a deal at Motown Records. Unlike cookie cutter boy bands, they earned that shot through sheer grind, but the label had big plans to mold them into the next big R&B act, pushing for a sound and vibe that clashed hard with their roots. Motown's president straight up wanted them as the white version of Jodesi, sending the guys to black churches in Harlem and even up to Rochester, New York, to train with the Vante swing from Jodesi, who showed up needing a bulletproof vest in the studio. It felt forced from day one, like the label signed them just to reshape them entirely. That pressure hit deep, making the members question their whole identity, and why they got signed if the label wouldn't let them be themselves. Nick Lache said it messed with their heads mentally, leaving them wondering who they even were after long days of faking it. Jeff Timon's battled severe depression,

1:00feeling like the weakest link and barely hanging on. Timon's pushed through by demanding help from their manager, who hooked him up with the psychiatrist, the Atkins diet, and some meds. In just three months, he turned the corner, feeling stronger than ever, and ready to keep fighting for the group. Now, their story's getting the full spotlight in the new ID documentary, Boy Band Confidential, dropping Monday, April 20th at 9 p.m. Eastern, and Pacific streaming on HBO Max right after reminding us how fame's grind can break you down. But real talk and support can rebuild you strong. I'm Corey with the story. That's your entertainment and celebrity news today update. AI powered and always trending.