b. Cheryl Gamble, 13 June 1974, Bronx, New York, USA. Coko embarked on a solo career in 1998 following the break-up of the highly successful swingbeat trio SWV. Gamble's mother was a gospel artist, and her daughter grew up singing in church choirs around the Bronx. She formed a duo with Leanne "Lelee" Lyons, which, with the addition of Tamara "Taj" Johnson, evolved over the years into SWV (Sisters With Voices). The trio enjoyed huge pop success during the mid-90s with the singles "I'm So Into You", "Weak" and "Right Here"/"Human Nature". Coko first recorded as a solo artist in 1997, while still a member of SWV, duetting with Johnny Gill on a cover version of "Fire And Desire" for the Booty Call soundtrack. She was also featured on the theme tune to Will Smith's smash hit movie, Men In Black. After the break-up of SWV, Coko went into the studio with leading producers Rodney Jerkins, Michael Powell and Brian Alexander Morgan to record her solo debut. Featuring duets with rapper Eve ("Triflin'") and label mate Tyrese (Marvin Gaye/Tammi Terrell's "If This World Were Mine"), and the R&B hit single "Sunshine", Hot Coko was a classy reassertion of Coko's soul diva credentials.
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