Slim (of 112): Staying Positive When Chances are Slim to None

In 1996, the four-member R&B group, 112 burst on to the music scene, becoming a multi-platinum phenomenon. If you were ever a fan, it’s no doubt that you took notice of the slim guy with the smooth voice, Marvin “Slim” Scandrick. His distinct voice helped to send 112 to the top of the charts. Twelve years later, Slim (of 112) is singing to a different tune as a solo artist on his very own record label.

Slim’s first single, “So Fly” featuring Yung Joc and Shawty Lo is the first single from his debut album, Love’s Crazy which dropped November 18. “So Fly” peaked in the top ten of Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs. His latest single, “Good Lovin” has already become the number one most added single on Billboard charts.

That’s not bad for a guy who once considered giving up on music all together. After the rumors about 112’s breakup in 2005, the members took a break to work on individual projects.

(Note: 112 fans can rest easy. Slim confirms that 112 is still together. “That will never change. Those are my brothers.”)

While sitting on the beach in Sydney, Australia, Slim decided to give music another try.

“If God gives you a gift and you don’t use it, it’s like a burning and I didn’t want to be that tortured soul.”

This time around he had musical ventures in mind other than just singing. “I had this big dream to elevate my career by starting a label. I can reach back into my community to find people with the same passion (as I do).” Identified as a front man for a singing group, Slim was told by many that owning a record label was unattainable.

Despite the naysayers, Slim inked a distribution deal with Asylum Records, home to rap artists Bun B, Jim Jones and Scarface, to launch M3 Records independently. Consequently, he decided to become a solo artist to build his brand up and he’s loving every minute of it.

Love’s Crazy is a reflection of Slim’s positive outlook on love and life, featuring producers and artists, such as Ryan Leslie and fellow ATLien, Big Boi of Outkast (he’s featured on the title track). “I wanted to establish my identity. At the end of the day, I want the talent to speak for itself.”

There’s a positive spin to everything, according to Slim, and the album reflects that. Ballads like “More” and “Bedtime Stories” are reminiscent of 112, while “Heels” and “She Got That” are upbeat tracks with a street edge.

Since its release, Slim has received nothing but stellar reviews from fans, industry critics and colleagues alike. Now he’s entering “Phase II” of his career, promoting the album, awaiting the release of his collaboration with Eightball of Eightball & MJG titled Fatboy & Slim: The Movie and planning for a possible sophomore album. Still, he wears the hat as the boss of M3 Records. He’s grooming upcoming artists Deezo, a young rap artist from Detroit and a hip-hop group, Ivy League to be released soon.

 ”If you’re going to go, go hard.”

For more information on Slim please visit www.myspace.com/slimof112.