'90s R&B Titans SWV & Xscape Are Squaring Up In May 'Verzuz' Battle

Voices of the '90s, SWV and Xscape will reportedly be battling in an upcoming Verzuz slated for May. Xscape's LaTocha Scott says all four members of SWV will be present.

SWV and Xscape, two beloved ‘90s R&B groups are squaring off in an upcoming Verzuz. 

If you don’t have your ducks in a row for this battle, we would implore you to brush up on some hits beyond SWV’s “Weak,” and Xscape’s “Softest Place On Earth.” The exciting news was announced via a TMZ clip that surfaced with Xscape’s LaTocha Scott that was shared on Instagram. In the video, Scott noted that all four members of the group would be a part of the battle.

Shortly after the clip raked in thousands of views, Verzuz shared an official Instagram post confirming the evening.

This news arrives nearly a day after the Earth Wind & Fire vs. the Isley Brothers matchup was announced. The immersive experience was recently acquired by Triller, the gaming platform. It’s hard to believe that it all started with Swizz Beatz and Timbaland from the comfort of their homes. But, it’s grown into a gigantic well-attended slew of events as the pandemic has seen Americans and music fans across the globe stuck in their homes. 

Some of the biggest nights for Verzuz featured Ashanti vs. Keyshia Cole, Erykah Badu vs. Jill Scott and Brandy vs. Monica. The newest lineup makes complete sense as R&B is the heartbeat of Black music outside of hip-hop.

New York’s SWV which is comprised of Cheryl (Coko) Gamble, Tamara (Taj) Johnson and Leanne (Lelee) Lyons are a part of the expansive sound of R&B that was wildly popular during the ‘90s. They’re known for tracks like “I’m So Into You,” “Right Here (Human Nature Remix)” and “You’re The One.” In 1998 the group went their separate ways, but in recent years they’ve reunited and have since continued to create music. 

Atlanta’s Xscape began with the linkup of LaTocha and Tamika Scott, sisters and Tameka “Tiny” Cottle and Kandi Buruss in College Park in 1990. After catching the eye of Jermaine Dupri, the quartet was signed to the producer’s So So Def record label. They went on to create ‘90s hits including “Just Kickin’ It” and “Understanding.” 

Tiny and her husband T.I. recently were accused of sexual misconduct according to multiple accounts by women. The couple has since denied all claims despite the heinous stories that were included in an expansive report.

The SWV vs. Xscape Verzuz battle is scheduled for May 8 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. You can watch the event on Instagram and Triller.