THE POWER OF DECEPTION
WORDS: N. ALI EARLY

Krave is all about illusion.

Composed, jovial and polite, they clearly enjoy each other’s company. They’re respectful of one another’s opinion and even seem to have designated members – Jazzy (politics, sports, etc.), Shan Q (hip hop) and Chanel (industry buzz, etc.) for varying topics of discussion. The newest understudy to Devyne Stephen’s empire, Upfront Megatainment, they are clearly being groomed for stardom. However, given their relaxed demeanor and equally common garb, they’re no more intimidating than three random girlfriends out to lunch.

Within minutes though, it becomes glaringly clear that they are grown ass women with opinions and presence that may ultimately work to define Atlanta’s new star.

The meek impression of them you might have assumed at first sight, is quickly overrun by an engaging discourse that exceeds expectations. They willingly move from the standard rigmarole of girl group fodder, to address topical issues that include the historic 44th Presidency of the United States, Lady Gaga, award shows (BET vs. MTV) and Serena Williams’ stumble at the Open.

Much of Krave’s composure can be attributed to Stephens and the second home he’s made for them at his state of the art studio Complex. Strategically positioned in the heart of Atlanta, many of the industry’s brightest stars enjoy its fruits. Akon, T Pain and a multitude of others have worked in and out of its energy fitness programs and plush day spa, to gain maximum results. Known as an artists’ boot camp to select circles in and around Atlanta, Krave can attest to its benefits, as easily as it can its hardship.

“What we’ve learned here are the ins and outs of being a true artist,” Jaz allows from the top floor of the multilevel artist workshop. “[Devyne] taught us how to sweat on stage. That’s the one thing he would not let us do, is get off the stage without sweating. [Through him] we learned about the true performance of it all, which is what we feel is missing. The industry is open for a new girl group and we’re bringing a new sound, a new energy and we’re bringing it hard.”

Their rise into the industry ranks began in high school, where the threesome was brought together by mutual friendship. They soon learned of each other’s musical gifts and began a lighthearted attempt at making something of it.

“We were basically three aspiring singers and at first it was just fun and games,” remembers Shan Q. “Then we started doing talent shows and one day we met Devyne Stephens after we performed.”

Impressed by what he saw and more so what he believed could develop into the next Atlantan phenomenon, Stephens expressed his interest in working with the girls. Before agreeing to sign with the Upfront Megatainment impresario though, they did a little homework.

“We had heard so much about him, but we didn’t know too much about him,” Shan tells. “So we did a little research and found that he’d worked with so many people… Ciara, Mary J. Blige, Eve, TLC and the list goes on. We were like, ‘YESSSS!!’ and that was that.”

Almost certainly, one of the qualities that drew Stephens to Krave is their energy. Their dialogue is easy. Their bubbling personalities are natural and before you know it, their collective camaraderie consumes you. Top it off with an instinctive command of the stage and thoughts of a young TLC sift into your Georgia Dome.

“It’s great to be compared to TLC,” says Jaz carefully. “They paved the way for us. They were one of those groups that helped start the Atlanta movement. It’s an honor to be compared to them, but what we do want to do is create our own lane. We want to pick up where TLC left off and take it to the moon and stars.”

Shan agrees, adding, “We love BBD, Salt ‘N Pepa, Jodeci… I think we’re big fans of the ‘90s era. We think that’s where music was at its peak. You really felt what they were talking about. So we kinda just want to bring that back.”

Barring a breakup, as often occurs with sensational girl groups (TLC included), Krave may end up getting exactly what they want. However, smart enough to know a split is not an implausible option; they’re determined to rely on their own history, in an effort to make some.

“We’ve known each other since high school,” Chanel says. “So it’s normal for us to bicker. Of course we’re going to have disagreements. But we respect each other enough to where it works and we’re grown. We know how to handle ourselves… and we all have one common goal.”

To see or hear more of Krave, go here.