Natina Reed
October 28, 1979 – October 26, 2012

Natina Reed was a Queens, New York born singer and rapper who is best remembered as one-third of the popular R&B singing group, Blaque.  Formed in 1999, the group, which also included Shamari Fears and ultimately, Brandi Williams, the group caught the ear of TLC’s Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes who signed them to a production deal.  Lopes became a mentor to Reed.  Blaque went on to release three albums with Reed contributing her raps to hits like “Bring It All To Me,” “Can’t Get It Back,” and “808.”  In all, the group charted five singles in the US through 2004 when the group split up after Reed joined a ministry.  Reed reunited with Blaque in later years, while Reed dabbled in acting.  She also began work on a solo album.  On October 26, 2012, Reed was struck and killed by a vehicle as she walked across a street near her home.  Early reports indicate that it was an accident, and that the drivers of the vehicle cooperated with the police.  No charges were initially filed.  Natina Reed was  32 when she passed away.

Thanks to Harold Lepidus at the Bob Dylan Examiner for the assist.

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