112 emerged as one of the definitive R&B groups of the late 1990s and early 2000s, bringing smooth harmonies and romantic ballads to the forefront of the genre. The quartet, consisting of members Q Parker, Michael Keith, Marvin Scandrick (also known as Slim), and Daron Jones, formed in Atlanta, Georgia, and were discovered by Sean "Diddy" Combs, who quickly signed them to his burgeoning Bad Boy Records label. Their self-titled debut album, "112," was released in 1996 and established their signature sound, blending soulful vocals with contemporary hip-hop and R&B production. The album's lead single, "Only You," featuring The Notorious B.I.G., became a massive hit, propelling the group to fame and setting the stage for a successful career.

The group's affiliation with Bad Boy Records placed them at the center of the era's vibrant music scene, leading to high-profile collaborations. They contributed memorable hooks to several of the label's biggest hits, most notably on The Notorious B.I.G.'s "Hypnotize" and Puff Daddy's "I'll Be Missing You," a tribute to Biggie that dominated charts worldwide. Their sophomore album, "Room 112," released in 1998, solidified their status with hits like "Love Me" and "Anywhere," showcasing their growth and ability to craft enduring slow jams. The album achieved platinum certification, confirming their commercial appeal beyond their debut.

112 reached their commercial peak with their third studio album, "Part III," released in 2001. The project spawned some of their most iconic singles, including the Grammy-nominated "It's Over Now" and the sensual "Peaches & Cream," which became a staple of early 2000s R&B. The album debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 chart and earned the group their first Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals for "U Already Know," a collaboration with Faith Evans. Despite their success, internal tensions and a shifting music landscape led the group to depart from Bad Boy Records in 2002.

They continued as an independent act, releasing "Hot & Wet" in 2003 and "Pleasure & Pain" in 2005, which included the hit "U Already Know." The group experienced periods of hiatus and pursued individual endeavors in ministry and solo music, but they have periodically reunited for performances, reminding fans of their enduring legacy in R&B. Their influence is heard in the harmonies of many contemporary groups, and their catalog of hits remains a cherished part of the genre's history, marking 112 as essential contributors to the sound of their era.