Ginuwine

Elgin Baylor Lumpkin, known professionally as Ginuwine, is an American R&B singer, songwriter, dancer, and actor recognized for his contributions to hip-hop soul in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Ginuwine began performing with a neighborhood hip-hop group at age 12, drawing early inspiration from Michael Jackson and Prince, which influenced his smooth vocal style. He signed with Swing Mob, collaborating with then-unknowns Timbaland and Missy Elliott, partnerships that would shape his career in the R&B and hip-hop music industry.

As a solo artist, Ginuwine signed with Epic Records and released his debut single, "Pony," which reached number six on the Billboard Hot 100. This single preceded his debut studio album, "Ginuwine...the Bachelor," which achieved double platinum certification from the RIAA. Alongside Timbaland's work for Aaliyah's "One in a Million" album, "Pony" and "Ginuwine...the Bachelor" marked the rise of Timbaland as a prominent R&B producer. Ginuwine's subsequent albums, "100% Ginuwine" and "The Life," both reached the top five of the Billboard 200. The single "Differences" from "The Life" peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains his highest-charting song. According to Billboard, Ginuwine has sold approximately 10 million albums in the United States.

Personal experiences have significantly influenced Ginuwine's artistry. He lost both parents within a short period; his father died by suicide and his mother passed away from cancer less than a year later. Ginuwine addressed his grief and depression through counseling and channeled these emotions into his music, particularly in "The Life," which he dedicated to his parents and featured the song "Two Reasons I Cry."

In addition to his solo career, Ginuwine formed the R&B trio TGT with Tyrese Gibson and Tank, releasing one studio album that was nominated for a Grammy Award.

Ginuwine has also appeared in film and television, including a role as an R&B singer in the movie "Juwanna Mann" and guest appearances on "Moesha." On NBC's Parks and Recreation, Ginuwine appeared as himself in two episodes. He also competed in season 10 of "The Masked Singer" as Husky. His signature hit "Pony" has maintained cultural relevance, experiencing renewed popularity after being featured in the films "Magic Mike," "Magic Mike XXL," and "Magic Mike's Last Dance."

Ginuwine received the Urban Music Icon Award at Black Music Honors. With a career spanning multiple platinum albums, a Grammy-nominated group project, and a song that has become a staple in R&B and pop culture, Ginuwine remains a prominent figure in the music industry.