Perri “Pebbles” Reid Net Worth

What Is Perri “Pebbles” Reid’s Net Worth? The Rise, Fall, and Comeback of an R&B Icon

Introduction: Pebbles’ Multifaceted Career

Perri “Pebbles” Reid is a name synonymous with the vibrant R&B and pop scene of the late 80s and early 90s. More than just a singer, she’s a songwriter, producer, entrepreneur, and ordained minister who has navigated the highs and lows of the music industry. This article delves into the life and career of Perri “Pebbles” Reid, exploring her net worth, musical achievements, the controversies that surrounded her, and her lasting impact on the world of music. We will also explore the details surrounding her relationships and business ventures.

Pebbles Reid’s Net Worth: A Breakdown

Perri “Pebbles” Reid has an estimated net worth of $20 million. Her wealth stems from a diverse range of income streams:

• Music Sales and Royalties: Earnings from her successful solo albums, singles, and songwriting credits.
• Production Company (Pebbitone): Profits from discovering, developing, and managing artists, most notably TLC.
• Gospel Music Career: Sales and performances related to her gospel albums and ministry.
• Other Ventures: Income from television appearances, speaking engagements, and her ministry.

Early Life and Influences

Born Perri Arlette McKissack on August 29, 1964, in Oakland, California, Perri “Pebbles” Reid’s upbringing shaped her musical journey. Her parents, of mixed African-American heritage, divorced when she was young, and her mother worked tirelessly as a housekeeper and waitress to raise her four children. This instilled in her a strong work ethic and resilience. Growing up, Perri was surrounded by music. She is a cousin of R&B singer Cherrelle, a connection that exposed her to the world of soulful melodies at an early age. Cherrelle would later collaborate with Perri on her 1991 song “Always.” These early influences set the stage for her future success.

From Backup Singer to Songwriter

Perri’s musical journey began at the age of 16, when she started singing backup vocals for the band Con Funk Shun and its leader, Bill Summers. This experience provided her with invaluable stage experience and honed her skills. She co-wrote the Con Funk Shun song “Body Lovers,” showcasing her early talent for songwriting. Although an initial production deal fell through due to her first pregnancy, it did not deter her ambition. It was the stepping stone that shaped her journey towards solo stardom.

Pebbles’ Solo Career: Albums and Chart-Topping Hits

Perri “Pebbles” Reid’s solo career took off when she met her future husband, George L. Smith, who provided her with the financial backing to record a demo tape and a music video for “Mercedes Boy.” This led to a record deal with MCA Records. Her debut album, simply titled “Pebbles,” was released in 1987 and proved to be a massive success. It reached #14 on the Billboard 200 chart and was certified Platinum in the U.S. Her hit singles “Girlfriend” and “Mercedes Boy” soared to the top of the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, and both reached the top 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Her album “Always” (1990) also achieved Platinum status and further solidified her presence in the music industry.

Her discography includes:

• Pebbles (1987): Featuring hits like “Girlfriend” and “Mercedes Boy.”
• Always (1990): Featuring “Giving You the Benefit” and “Love Makes Things Happen.”
• Straight from My Heart (1995)
• Prophetic Flows Vol I & II (2008)

(Photo by Prince Williams/FilmMagic)

The TLC Controversy: Pebbitone, Mismanagement Allegations, and the Rise and Fall of a Girl Group

In 1989, Pebbles established the production company Pebbitone and the record label Savvy Records. In 1991, Pebbitone signed the up-and-coming girl group TLC, which consisted of Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas, and Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins. TLC, managed by Pebbles, signed with LaFace Records, owned by Pebbles’ then-husband, L.A. Reid.

TLC became one of the best-selling girl groups of all time, achieving global success. However, tensions arose. In the mid-1990s, TLC filed for bankruptcy and accused Pebbles of mismanaging their finances and creating an unfair record deal. At the height of their success, the group claimed they each only received a total of $50,000 after selling 11 million copies of their album “CrazySexyCool.” This led to a highly publicized conflict and damaged Pebbles’ marriage to L.A. Reid. Pebbitone later filed a $10 million lawsuit against LaFace Records.

The story was revisited in 2013 with the VH1 biopic “CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story.” Pebbles expressed dissatisfaction with her portrayal in the film and threatened to sue Viacom, the parent company of VH1, for $40 million. She claimed the film falsely depicted her as a dishonest businesswoman who exploited the group. The parties eventually settled for an undisclosed amount in 2020.

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Later Career and Religious Conversion

In 1997, Perri “Pebbles” Reid experienced a spiritual transformation, leading her to adopt the stage name “Sister Perri.” She founded the Women of God Changing Lives Ministries, a ministry focused on deliverance, healing, teaching, and training. As an ordained minister, she has released several gospel albums, including “Prophetic Flows Vol I & II,” which reached #12 on the Billboard Gospel Album Chart in 1998. She has also authored a book, “Child of the Breakthrough,” a collection of prophetic prayers.

In 2011, she became the host and executive producer of the talent competition “Essence & Pebbles present: R&B Star,” showcasing her continued involvement in the music industry.

Personal Life: Relationships and Family

Perri “Pebbles” Reid’s personal life has been marked by several marriages. She has been married five times and has a daughter, Ashley Victoria Winzer, born in 1982. Her marriages include:

• Her first marriage was to Ashley’s father (divorced 1983).
• George L. Smith (married 1983, divorced 1987).
• L.A. Reid (married 1989, divorced 1995), with whom she had a son, Aaron.
• Otis Nixon (married 2000, divorced 2004).
• Excel Sharieff (married 2012).

Awards and Nominations

Perri “Pebbles” Reid has received two Grammy nominations for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance: one for “Girlfriend” in 1989 and another for “Giving You The Benefit” in 1991. “Girlfriend” also earned her an American Music Award nomination for Favorite Soul/R&B Song, underscoring her impact on the music scene.

Legacy and Impact

Perri “Pebbles” Reid’s career is a testament to her versatility and resilience. She has left a lasting mark on the music industry through her successful solo career, her songwriting, and her role in developing the iconic girl group TLC. Despite the controversies that have surrounded her, Pebbles’ talent and business acumen have solidified her place in music history. Her transition into ministry also showcases her spiritual growth and her desire to impact the lives of others. She continues to inspire fans with her music, business ventures, and ministry.

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