702 is an R&B vocal trio comprised of sisters Irish and LeMisha ‘Misha’ Grinstead and Kameelah Williams, the lead singer. “702” refers to the area code of their native Las Vegas, Nevada. They started as a quartet, which included Irish’s twin sister, Orish Grinstead—founding member and later a substitute vocalist.

The Grinstead sisters (along with Williams) attended the Las Vegas Academy of Performing Arts, and sometimes performed in the lobby of Caesars Palace. It was there they were discovered by comedian Sinbad, who convinced their parents to enter them in a music competition under the name “Sweeta Than Suga.” They came in second place, and met Michael Bivins, the founding member of R&B group New Edition. They recorded a few demos, with Orish eventually leaving the group—she was replaced by Kameelah Williams. The new group was dubbed “702.”

702’s debut album, No Doubt, was released on October 8 1996, and was co-produced by Missy Elliott. The album was certified gold. Their second album, the self-titled 702, was released June 15, 1999 and produced their most well-known hit to date: “Where My Girls At?”, which Missy wrote and produced. The song became the official anthem for the WNBA season opener in 1999.

Once the buzz around their second album quieted, the group hit pause. Kameelah Williams tried her hand at a solo career, and the group replaced her with Cree Le'More. Kameelah eventually returned to the group (replacing Cree) and they recorded their third album, Star in 2003. Though the album failed to chart on the Hot 100, a few songs charted on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks.

Since the release of Star, the ladies of 702 have been pretty quiet. LeMisha tried her hand at a solo career but didn’t have much success. She now manages a wedding chapel in Las Vegas. Orish passed away in 2008 at the age of 27 from kidney failure. Kameelah is still working on her solo career and also appeared on reality television.

On September 16, 2023, Irish Grinstead passed away at 43 after a battle with serious medical problems.

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