Pamela Long, Keisha Spivey, and Kima Raynor formed the iconic R&B group, Total, in the 1990s, delivering soulful sounds and hits that captivated fans worldwide. Known for their unique chemistry and powerful vocals, Total became synonymous with the era’s hip-hop and R&B movement.
Their sophomore album, Kima, Keisha, and Pam, released by Bad Boy Records and Arista Records in 1998, continues to be celebrated as a classic. Exploring the dynamic between Pam and Keisha, the group’s development under Bad Boy Records, and their influence on the music scene helps reveal the essence of their lasting legacy.
The Rise of Total: From Total Opposite to Bad Boy Stars
Originally, Total began under the name “Total Opposite,” a fitting title that emphasized the members’ contrasting personalities and musical styles. According to Long, the name highlighted their individuality, with each member bringing her unique voice and background into the mix.
Pamela Long recalls first encountering Keisha Spivey and Kima Raynor at the studio. Initially hesitant to join, Long was eventually convinced to bring her talents to the group, thus cementing the trio’s foundation.
Their big break came when they caught the attention of Sean “Diddy” Combs, then on the rise with Bad Boy Records. After an impromptu performance in an elevator at the legendary Hit Factory studio, the group made an impression on Diddy, though he initially appeared uninterested. Despite his outward demeanor, he called their manager, Kathy Dukes, at 5 a.m. to ensure they stayed with Bad Boy, sealing Total’s fate as one of Bad Boy’s premier groups.
Kima, Keisha, and Pam: The Making of an R&B Classic
Total’s 1998 release, Kima, Keisha, and Pam, arrived at the height of the late ‘90s R&B wave. With a star-studded roster of collaborators, including Missy Elliott, Timbaland, and Heavy D, the album fused hip-hop beats with soulful harmonies, creating a distinctive sound that resonated with fans and critics alike.
The album debuted at number nine on the US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums and eventually reached number thirty-nine on the US Billboard 200. Its lead single, “Trippin’,” produced by Elliott, showcased Total’s smooth harmonies and brought a futuristic edge to their sound.
The success of Kima, Keisha, and Pam did more than propel Total’s career; it established them as pioneers in blending R&B with the raw energy of hip-hop, a mix that would influence countless artists. The album’s sultry themes, memorable hooks, and innovative production earned it a Gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) in 1999, solidifying its place in R&B history.
The Bond Between Pam and Keisha: Strengthening Total’s Impact
Pam and Keisha’s relationship played an instrumental role in Total’s success. Pamela Long has reflected on the strong connection and resilience that each member brought to the group. Long’s outspoken personality and her commitment to staying grounded complemented Keisha’s more reserved nature, creating a balance that translated into their music. The trio’s diverse personalities and shared vision allowed them to overcome challenges within the music industry, especially as women navigating a male-dominated space.
Throughout their time at Bad Boy, Pam became known for her strong sense of faith and moral grounding, often advising her fellow group members to stay cautious. In a recent interview, she expressed the importance of staying true to oneself, especially when dealing with the pressures of fame and power. Her bond with Keisha, in particular, went beyond professional collaboration, serving as a foundation for personal growth and resilience in an industry known for its harsh realities.
Total’s Journey with Bad Boy Records
Pam’s relationship with Bad Boy Records and its founder, Diddy, was marked by both professional triumphs and personal challenges. While she chooses not to delve deeply into specifics, Long has acknowledged that working with Diddy and Bad Boy shaped the group’s career in ways they never anticipated.
The label’s reputation for high-energy, edgy music helped shape Total’s sound and image, ensuring their place within the evolving landscape of hip-hop and R&B.
Long reflects on this journey with a mix of pride and caution. “You just got to be real careful because when it comes to power, that’s one thing I’m like, you got to be ever so careful ’cause that thing can turn,” she remarked in an interview. Her reflections on fame and success add a layer of depth to the legacy of Total, reminding fans that the journey to stardom is often a complex, multi-faceted experience.
Legacy and Continued Influence of Total’s Music
While Kima, Keisha, and Pam remains Total’s last studio album, its influence persists. Tracks like “Trippin’” and collaborations with top producers of the time helped pave the way for future R&B artists who sought to merge hip-hop elements into their sound. The album’s success also reinforced the importance of women in shaping R&B and hip-hop, a legacy carried on by modern artists who continue to cite Total as a key influence.
Pam Long, now a reality TV star on BET’s The Encore, has stayed connected to her roots in music while embracing new opportunities. Her appearances remind audiences of Total’s lasting impact and offer a glimpse into her journey beyond the group. The group’s story stands as a testament to their artistry, resilience, and the unbreakable bond that brought them together.
Conclusion
The relationship between Pam and Keisha, along with the group’s shared dedication to their music, helped make Total a defining force in R&B during the late 1990s. Their unique combination of styles, experiences, and vocal talents produced music that resonates with fans even decades later.
Despite the challenges that came with fame and the complexities of working within the music industry, Pam, Keisha, and Kima left a legacy that continues to inspire. Kima, Keisha, and Pam may be Total’s last album to date, but its influence endures as a blueprint for powerful, genre-defining R&B.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who are the members of Total?
Total consists of Pamela Long, Keisha Spivey, and Kima Raynor. The trio gained popularity in the ’90s as an R&B group signed to Bad Boy Records.
2. What is Total’s most well-known album?
Total’s most well-known album is Kima, Keisha, and Pam, released in 1998. It includes hits like “Trippin’” and features contributions from notable producers such as Missy Elliott and Timbaland.
3. How did Pam and Keisha’s relationship impact Total?
Pam and Keisha’s strong bond and complementary personalities contributed to Total’s unique sound and resilience. Their relationship provided a foundation that helped the group navigate the challenges of the music industry.
4. Why did Total work with Bad Boy Records?
Bad Boy Records, led by Sean “Diddy” Combs, helped shape Total’s sound by giving them access to high-profile producers and a distinct, edgy image that fit the evolving R&B and hip-hop scene.
5. Is Total still making music today?
Total has not released new music since Kima, Keisha, and Pam, but members like Pam Long continue to engage with fans through television appearances and interviews. Their music continues to influence new generations of R&B fans and artists.