Terry Ellis was born on May 9, 1963 in Houston, Texas. She grew up surrounded by a family that was immersed in music and it was from a young age that she developed a passion for singing. Ellis was a natural performer and would often showcase her vocal talents at family gatherings and events.
After graduating high school, Ellis went on to attend Prime View A&M University where she studied marketing and graduated with a degree in 1990. It was during her time in college that Ellis began to explore her musical talents further and she started to perform at local venues and talent shows.
In 1990, Ellis got her big break when she was invited to audition for a new girl group that was being formed called En Vogue. Alongside Cindy Herron, Maxine Jones, and Dawn Robinson, Ellis became part of the iconic group that would go on to make waves in the R&B music scene.
En Vogue's debut album, "Born to Sing," was released in 1990 and was met with critical acclaim. The group quickly rose to fame with their soulful vocals, intricate harmonies, and dynamic performances. Their hit single "Hold On" became an instant classic and catapulted En Vogue to superstardom.
Throughout the early 1990s, En Vogue continued to dominate the charts with hit after hit. Songs like "Free Your Mind," "Giving Him Something He Can Feel," and "Don't Let Go (Love)" solidified the group's status as R&B royalty. Ellis' powerful vocals and stage presence contributed to En Vogue's success and made her a fan favorite.
In addition to her work with En Vogue, Ellis also pursued solo projects. She launched her own fragrance line called Southern Exposure, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and creative talents.
Outside of her music career, Ellis was known for her close relationship with her cousin, Thomas Howard, who was a professional football player for the Cincinnati Bengals in the NFL. She also formed a strong friendship with actress Holly Robinson Peete, whom she met while working on the theme song for the TV show "Hangin' with Mr. Cooper."
Terry Ellis remains a beloved figure in the R&B music scene, known for her soulful vocals, fierce stage presence, and undeniable talent. Her contributions to En Vogue helped shape the sound of the 90s and her impact continues to be felt in the music industry today.
As a trailblazer in the world of R&B, Terry Ellis has left an indelible mark on music history and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of artists.