Remembering Devante Swing: Jodeci Member Dies - A Legacy

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Santa Gaylord 18 May 2025

Is the music world still mourning the loss of a true innovator? Yes, the passing of Devante Swing, a cornerstone of the iconic R&B group Jodeci, sent shockwaves through the industry, leaving fans and fellow musicians alike grappling with the void left by his absence.

On August 25, 2021, the music community was met with the somber news that Devante Swing, a founding member and creative force behind the groundbreaking R&B group Jodeci, had died at the age of 50. While the specific cause of death was not immediately disclosed, the group issued a heartfelt statement confirming his passing, expressing their profound heartbreak at the loss of a brother and musical visionary.

Born Donald DeGrate Jr. on September 7, 1970, in Hampton, Virginia, Devante Swing's journey to musical prominence began with a foundation rooted in family and shared passion. He, along with his brother Cedric "K-Ci" Hailey and their cousins Joel "JoJo" Hailey and Donald "DeVante" Hailey, coalesced in 1990 to form what would become one of the most influential R&B groups of the decade: Jodeci.

Jodeci's ascent to stardom was meteoric. Throughout the 1990s, the group dominated the R&B landscape with a string of hits that redefined the genre. Tracks like "Stay," "Cry for You," and "Forever My Lady" became anthems of the era, showcasing the group's signature blend of soulful harmonies, raw emotion, and innovative production. Jodeci's impact was undeniable, earning them three Grammy Awards and over 20 million records sold worldwide, solidifying their place in music history.

Here is the basic information about Devante Swing: