The Rise and Fall of Kenny Green: The Untold Story of Intro.

In the world of R&B, few voices resonate as powerfully as that of Kenny Green, the frontman of the group Intro. Known for their soulful sound and emotional lyrics, Intro was poised to be one of the leading acts of the 1990s.

However, Kenny’s journey was marked not only by success but also by struggle, silence, and ultimately, a tragic fate that left many wondering what went wrong.

This article explores the rise of Kenny Green and Intro, the challenges they faced, and the impact of an industry that often prioritizes image over authenticity.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Kenny Green was born into a musical family, and his passion for music was evident from a young age. Growing up in a world filled with gospel sounds, he was inspired by the rich traditions of church music.

His father, a lead singer in the church choir, played a significant role in shaping Kenny’s aspirations. Watching his father command the stage ignited a desire in Kenny to pursue a career in music.

By the time he reached his teenage years, Kenny was ready to make his mark. He was discovered by Missy Elliott, who recognized his talent and signed him to her label.

This partnership proved to be a turning point in his career. With Missy’s guidance, Kenny joined forces with fellow musicians to form Intro, and they quickly made waves in the industry.

Breakthrough with Intro

Intro burst onto the scene with their debut album, *Make It Hot*, in 1996. The title track and other songs showcased Kenny’s powerful vocals and the group’s harmonious sound.

The album was well-received, earning a gold certification and establishing Intro as a prominent name in R&B. However, despite their initial success, the group struggled to maintain momentum.

As the late ’90s progressed, the music landscape became increasingly competitive. Iconic R&B artists like Mariah Carey, Monica, and Destiny’s Child dominated the charts, making it difficult for newer acts to gain traction.

Intro’s sophomore album, *Electric Blue*, was met with challenges, including a lack of promotion and internal conflicts that hindered their progress.

The Struggles Behind the Scenes

Despite their talent and potential, Intro faced significant obstacles that ultimately led to their decline. One of the most pressing issues was the pressure Kenny felt to conform to a specific image.

In the hyper-masculine world of ’90s R&B, artists were often expected to project a clean-cut, ladies’ man persona. For Kenny, this was a burden, especially as he grappled with his identity as a bisexual man.

The music industry at the time was not ready to embrace artists who deviated from traditional gender norms.

Kenny’s struggle to hide his true self created a silent battle that affected his mental health and overall well-being. He felt the weight of expectations, leading him to suppress his identity to fit the mold that the industry demanded.

The Turning Point: Disrespect and Disillusionment

The situation worsened when Kenny faced a suspension from Intro due to an incident involving a DJ. This suspension felt less like a disciplinary action and more like a convenient excuse to push him out of the group.

As Kenny’s health began to decline, the pressures of fame and the burden of secrecy took their toll. He was losing weight and experiencing flu-like symptoms, yet he continued to perform, hiding his struggles from the public eye.

Behind the scenes, the dynamics within Intro were shifting. The group had been relying on producer Buddy White for their sound, but when he stepped back, the pressure fell squarely on Kenny’s shoulders.

With the label’s focus shifting to newer artists, Intro found themselves sidelined, and the support they once enjoyed began to dwindle.

The Silent Erasure

As the years went by, it became increasingly clear that Kenny Green was being erased from the narrative of R&B.

Despite his immense talent as a songwriter—having penned hits for artists like Mary J. Blige and Will Smith—he found himself without a platform or a voice.

The industry that once celebrated him turned its back, leaving him to navigate the complexities of fame alone.

In 2001, Kenny publicly came out as HIV positive in an interview with *Sister 2 Sister* magazine. This revelation was met with mixed reactions, but it ultimately came too late.

Just months later, Kenny passed away from AIDS-related complications at the age of 32. His death was met with silence from the industry, a stark reminder of how quickly the music world can forget its stars.

The Aftermath: A Legacy Left Unseen

Following Kenny’s death, the soul of Intro seemed to vanish along with him. Buddy White, the remaining member, struggled to keep the group’s legacy alive.

He transitioned to a career as a police officer in New York City, a stark contrast to the life of a musician. Meanwhile, the world moved on, leaving behind the memories of a group that once had so much promise.

The erasure of Kenny Green’s story is a reflection of the broader issues within the music industry.

Artists who deviate from the norm often face immense pressure to conform, and those who refuse to do so risk being sidelined or forgotten. Kenny’s talent was undeniable, but his truth was seen as a liability in an industry that valued image over authenticity.

A Glimmer of Hope: The Reunion and Documentary

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Kenny Green and Intro’s story. In 2021, Buddy White and Jeff Sanders reunited, not just to reminisce but to share the untold story of their journey.

Their documentary, *Music, Lyrics, and Life*, aims to shed light on the struggles they faced, the loss of Kenny, and the impact of the music industry on their lives.

This documentary serves as a platform for Kenny’s voice to be heard once more, celebrating his contributions to music and acknowledging the challenges he faced as an artist.

The release of the long-shelved third album alongside the documentary is a testament to the enduring legacy of Kenny Green and Intro.

Conclusion: Remembering Kenny Green

Kenny Green’s story is not just about a talented artist who faced adversity; it is a powerful reminder of the complexities of the music industry and the importance of authenticity.

His journey highlights the struggles of artists who dare to be themselves in an environment that often demands conformity.

As we reflect on Kenny’s life and the impact he had on R&B, it is crucial to recognize the importance of supporting artists who challenge the status quo.

The erasure of Kenny Green is a cautionary tale, but his legacy lives on through the music he created and the stories that are finally being told.

In the end, Kenny Green was not just a frontman; he was a trailblazer who dared to live his truth in a world that was not ready to accept it.

His story deserves to be remembered, not just as a footnote in music history but as a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and the enduring human spirit.