Deep Groove Encyclopedia

Dionne Farris

Farris came to the public's attention during her tenure with Arrested Development, whose "Tennessee" was powered by her vocals. Conflicts within the group, some stemming from Farris' popularity, led to the launch of her solo career in 1994. Wild Seed-Wild Flower was highly anticipated, and the first single "I Know" was a substantial hit. However, fans expecting a traditional r&b record were confused by Farris' expansive fusion of soul, rock and pop. With disappointing support from black radio, the album failed to reach as many people as it should have, and Farris has not released an album since.

Dionne Farris' Deepest Groove

Wild Seed - Wild Flower (Columbia, 1994)
Misunderstood at the time of its release, this album's influence can be heard in artists such as Res and India Arie. Farris' fight for creative control culminates in great numbers like "Find Your Way," "Human," and "Reality," songs that would likely receive airplay if recorded today. Most surprising are the hard rock jams "Passion" and "Stop to Think," which reflect the input of Follow For Now leader David Harris. Someone please get this sister into the studio for a new album!