Shai is a R&B group that was formed on the campus of Howard University and was most popular in the ’90s. “If I Ever Fall in Love” was the debut single released on the groups 3x platinum debut album of the same name. The single spent eight weeks at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, which was held off from the top slot due to the massive success of “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston. It also spent one week at No. 1 on the R&B chart.
Two versions of the song were recorded, one being an a cappella version. Group member Carl E. Martin wrote the single on a long ride back from his home in Louisiana to Washington, DC. It was written about his ex-girlfriend Camille, who also attended Howard University. When he returned to Howard he met a DJ from radio station WPGC and passed a demo tape of “If I Ever Fall in Love” to him. That same week, the DJ played it on the air and other stations soon followed suit leading to the group signing their first record deal.
Shai is often noted for their amazing a cappella harmonies and nicely blended soulful vocals. Original members Darnell Van Rensalier and Garfield A. Bright continue to tour together.
Enjoy the original video above and check out the a cappella version below!
the acappella version is superior this is classic 4 part harmony