Naturi Naughton started her career at 15, co-founding 3LW, a platinum-selling R&B girl group. This led to her acting career. Now, at 34, she’s known for her role as Tasha St. Patrick on ‘Power’ on Starz. This role has brought her critical praise and NAACP Image Awards.
Naughton’s move from music to acting shows her talent and hard work. Born in East Orange, New Jersey, she has faced the entertainment world’s challenges. Her performances have won fans and made her a rising star.
Naughton’s success inspires many. Her story is about overcoming obstacles with talent and determination. We explore her journey from a teenage musician to a celebrated actress, highlighting her impact on the entertainment world.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Naturi Naughton, a talented actress and former R&B girl group member, was born on May 20, 1984, in East Orange, New Jersey. She showed great musical talent early on. At five, she joined the New Hope Baptist Church choir in Newark.
Her musical heroes included Whitney Houston, who inspired her to sing. Naughton went to St. Joseph’s Catholic school and Immaculate Conception High School in Montclair. There, she kept working on her performance skills.
In 1999, at 15, Naughton joined Adrienne Bailon and Kiely Williams to form 3LW. This was the start of her career in music.
Musical Influences and Formation of 3LW
Naughton loved music from a young age. She was influenced by her church and school. Whitney Houston’s powerful voice and stage presence were big influences on her.
In 1999, Naughton joined Adrienne Bailon and Kiely Williams to form 3LW. This was a big moment for her. It led to success in music and acting.
Naturi Naughton’s move from 3LW to solo success shows the value of following your dreams. It’s about growing and finding your own path.
Rise to Fame with 3LW
Naturi Naughton’s career soared at 15 as a member of 3LW. Formed in 1999, the group included Adrienne Bailon and Kiely Williams. Their debut album in 2000 went platinum, selling 1.3 million copies in the U.S. Hits like “No More (Baby I’ma Do Right)” and “Playas Gon’ Play” made 3LW a top R&B group in the early 2000s.
Major Hits and Achievements
Their success continued with “A Girl Can Mack” in 2002. It debuted at #15 on the Billboard 200, selling 53,000 copies in the first week. 3LW won the Soul Train Lady of Soul Award for “Best New R&B or Hip-Hop Artist” in 2001. They were also nominated for BET Awards and the Source Award. Their catchy R&B hits and engaging group dynamics made them a highlight in pop and R&B music.
Challenges Faced by the Group
But 3LW faced challenges too. Naughton left in 2002 after a fight, which included food being thrown. This led to Bailon and Williams continuing as a duo, replacing Naughton with Jessica Benson. The group’s popularity and album sales declined due to these conflicts, ending 3LW in 2003.
Impact on Pop and R&B Music
Despite their rough end, 3LW’s impact on early 2000s pop and R&B music is clear. Their debut platinum album and hit R&B hits inspired future girl groups. They left a lasting mark on music history.
Transition to Acting
Naturi Naughton’s acting career took off after she left the R&B group 3LW. Her role in Notorious in 2009 was a big step. It showed her range and was a key moment in her acting journey.
First Roles in Television
Naughton started acting in shows like Taina and The Client List. These roles helped her grow as an actress. They showed her talent and ability to connect with audiences.
Breakthrough in Film
In 2009, Naughton played Lil’ Kim in Notorious. This role was a big challenge. It proved her acting skills and brought her fame and praise.
Joining the Cast of ‘Power’
In 2013, Naughton joined the cast of Power as Tasha St. Patrick. At first, people doubted her because she looked young. But her hard work and talent won them over.
“I remember going in and they were like, ‘You look too young, I don’t know if you can play this part.’ But I was like, ‘I can do it, I can do it!'”
Naughton’s role in Power has brought her a lot of praise and awards. Her journey from a musician to a respected actress shows her dedication and passion for acting.
Role of Tasha St. Patrick on ‘Power’
Naturi Naughton plays Tasha St. Patrick, the wife of James “Ghost” St. Patrick, on ‘Power’. Her performance has been widely praised. She won two NAACP Image Awards for her role.
Character Overview
Tasha St. Patrick is a complex character. She starts as a supportive wife but becomes a strong, independent woman. Naughton’s portrayal has made Tasha a fan favorite.
Story Arcs and Development
Tasha’s story is compelling. She shows loyalty to Ghost but also has her own goals and doubts. Naughton’s acting makes Tasha a key figure in the show’s conflicts.
Reception and Audience Impact
Viewers love Tasha St. Patrick. They discuss her choices and actions. Naughton’s performance is praised for its depth and authenticity. Her character’s growth has made ‘Power’ a hit.
Behind-the-Scenes of ‘Power’
Naturi Naughton’s role on Power has won many fans. She talks about the teamwork and hard work that happens off-screen. Her character, Tasha St. Patrick, has gotten a lot of praise, thanks to the cast relationships and acting preparation.
Naughton talks about the power production on set. She highlights the close bond with her co-star Omari Hardwick. “We really developed a strong chemistry that translates onto the screen,” she says. “It’s the result of us constantly working together, challenging each other, and pushing the boundaries of our characters.”
Preparing for Intense Scenes
Naughton’s hard work in preparing for her role is clear. “I really immerse myself in the lifestyle and mindset of Tasha,” she shares. “It’s not just memorizing lines, but understanding the emotional depth and complexities of being the wife of a high-profile drug dealer.”
Her effort to be real has won praise from fans and critics. “There’s no room for holding back,” Naughton asserts. “I have to be fully present and raw in those intense scenes, and that requires a lot of mental and physical preparation.”
“The cast has become like a family, and that bond translates to the screen. We push each other to new heights, and that’s what makes ‘Power’ such a special show.”
Naughton’s time on Power has shown her amazing acting skills. It has also made her a big name in the entertainment world. As the show keeps drawing viewers, her hard work and strong cast relationships will keep driving its success.
Music Career Resurgence
Naturi Naughton left the 90s girl group 3LW in 2002 but didn’t give up on music. In 2009, she sang for the Fame soundtrack, including a cover of the title song. This song was a hit worldwide. She released an EP in 2010 called “Fame Presents Naturi Naughton as Denise: Didn’t I Tell You?”, showing off her solo music skills.
Naughton has mainly acted in recent years, like on Power. But her music background still shines through in her roles. In Queens, she plays a former 90s girl group member trying to make a comeback. Her singing and acting blend perfectly.
Naughton wants to make a full solo music album soon. Her work on Fame and Queens shows her love for singing and acting. It proves her connection between music and acting is strong.
“I’ve always loved singing and music, and I’m excited to explore that side of my creativity more in the future,” Naughton has shared in recent interviews.
Recognition and Awards
Naturi Naughton has won hearts with her acting on TV and in movies. Her role as Tasha St. Patrick in Power on Starz has brought her two NAACP Image Awards. These awards were for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series in 2017 and 2018.
Naughton’s talent has been celebrated by many. She has won awards from groups like the Women in Entertainment Executive Network (WEEN) and the Black Women in Film Summit. The National Urban League of New York also honored her for her work in TV and film. In 2019, she received the “Entertainer’s Award” at the National Action Network Triumph Awards for her role in Power.
“Naturi Naughton has won the NAACP Image Award for ‘Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series’ in both 2017 and 2018.”
Naughton’s journey from being in the girl group 3LW to becoming a respected actress is inspiring. Her role as Lil’ Kim in Notorious shows her range and talent.
Naughton’s hard work and dedication to her craft are well-known. Her Naturi’s Dreamers Foundation helped thousands during the pandemic. This shows her impact goes beyond acting, making her a true artist and philanthropist.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Naturi Naughton’s life shows her strength and commitment. She had a daughter named Zuri in July 2017. Then, she married Xavier “Two” Lewis in April 2022. They welcomed a son in May 2023.
Naughton fights for working moms in showbiz. She wants more support and flexibility for them.
Her charity, the Naturi Dreamer’s Foundation, helped many families during COVID-19. Mayor Bill de Blasio honored her by declaring June 18 as Naturi Naughton Day. She was also celebrated in New York City’s Juneteenth Celebration in Harlem.
“The power of choice is so important, and Juneteenth represents that freedom,” said Naughton. She’s grateful for the recognition and her commitment to women’s empowerment and social justice.
Naughton’s journey from facing challenges to success inspires young women. Her work in motherhood, marriage, and helping others has made her a legend.
Future Projects and Aspirations
Naturi Naughton is making waves in the entertainment world. She’s looking to take on new upcoming projects that show off her skills. As a former 3LW singer, she wants to prove her versatility.
Naughton has already made a comeback as Tasha St. Patrick in Power Book II: Ghost. She’s also joined ABC’s Queens in 2021. This shows her commitment to her craft and her love for music and acting.
Upcoming Roles and Collaborations
Naughton’s future projects are still a secret, but her past work hints at exciting things to come. Fans are waiting to see what she’ll do next. They’re hoping for more roles and collaborations that will highlight her talent.
Musical Aspirations
Naughton also wants to get back into music. She’s thinking about making a solo album. Her experience and love for music will surely win over listeners.
Long-Term Goals in Entertainment
Naughton’s career is on the rise, and she has big plans. She dreams of directing and producing her own work. This will solidify her place in the entertainment industry.
Her hard work and support for young artists through the Naturi Dreamers Foundation are inspiring. It’s clear she has a bright future ahead, filled with upcoming projects and career goals that will thrill audiences.
“I’m always looking for new challenges and ways to grow as an artist. The entertainment industry has so much to offer, and I’m excited to see what the future holds.”
Conclusion
Naturi Naughton’s career is a story of talent and resilience. She started as a teenager in the girl group 3LW. Then, she became a respected actress, known for her role as Tasha St. Patrick in Power.
Legacy as an Artist
Naughton has faced many challenges but always came out on top. Her story inspires many, showing the importance of perseverance. She has made a big impact in music and TV, leaving a lasting legacy.
Enduring Popularity
Naturi Naughton’s popularity comes from her ability to connect with audiences. Her role in Power showed her talent in playing complex characters. As she takes on new roles, her appeal will only grow, making her a beloved figure in entertainment.
Final Thoughts on Her Journey
Naturi Naughton’s career shows the power of never giving up. From a young singer to a celebrated actress, she proves that determination can lead to success. Her journey inspires others to follow their dreams and overcome challenges.
