Classes of ‘90, ‘89--Where Are They Now?

So how have members of Calendar’s last two pop freshman classes fared? Their progress has been everything from spectacular to almost nonexistent. Here’re the details on how the acts did in 1991.

The Class of 1990

Digital Underground released a critically acclaimed second album, “Sons of the P.” Bell Biv DeVoe released a remix version of its hit debut album, while Michael Bivens helped develop Motown’s Boyz II Men and Another Bad Creation. The Black Crowes made the cover of Rolling Stone and are back home in Atlanta preparing to record a second album. 808 State’s new album, “Ex:El,” refined the Manchester techno-dance outfit’s sound. The Gear Daddies are reportedly working on a new album, due early next spring.

John Wesley Harding’s second U.S. album, “The Name Above the Title,” failed to broaden the English singer-songwriter’s audience. Ice Cube’s new “Death Certificate” made the Top 10, but was widely attacked as irresponsible. Jesus Jones’ second album, “Doubt,” was a Top 10 breakthrough. Mazzy Star was signed by Capitol Records and plans to release its second album in February. Urban Dance Squad’s “Life ‘n Perspectives of a Genuine Crossover” was even more eclectic and harder-edged rap-rock than the ’90 debut.

The Class of ’89

Neneh Cherry is scheduled to release her second album in May. De La Soul stepped away from the flower-power rap image of its debut album, winning more acclaim, but losing some of its commercial momentum. Lenny Kravitz released a second album, “Mama Said,” and will be the opening act on the Cult’s tour this spring. Mary’s Danish’s second album, “Circa,” made the brash, eclectic L.A. band a national alternative-rock favorite. N.W.A’s second album--its first without Ice Cube--turned off most critics, but went to No. 1 on the charts.

Soul II Soul continues to be an influence on the soul/hip-hop genre, from KLF to C+C Music Factory. Stone Roses has been signed by Geffen Records and plans to have an album ready in the spring. Soundgarden’s “Badmotorfinger,” solidified the band as leader of the dark Seattle sound.

On its recently released second album, Texas’ lead singer Sharleen Spiteri continues to be one of the most exciting young voices in rock. Tone-Loc just returned with a new album, “Cool Hand Loc.”