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Renowned R&B songstress Irish Grinstead, a cherished member of the iconic girl group 702, has tragically passed away at the tender age of 43. The heart-wrenching news was conveyed by her sister and fellow 702 cohort, LeMisha Grinstead, who shared the somber update via her Instagram account on Saturday, September 16th.
In a poignant message, LeMisha expressed, "It is with great sadness that I have to let you know that my beautiful sister and friend has passed away this evening. She has had a long battle and she is finally at peace. That girl was as bright as the stars!
She was not only beautiful on the outside, but also within. Sharing the stage with her was a joy I will cherish for the rest of my life! We, the family, ask for prayers and respect for our privacy as we grieve an outstanding loss to our family." While the exact cause of Irish Grinstead's passing has not been disclosed, it's worth noting that the group had announced her medical leave of absence in December 2022 due to grave health concerns.
702, hailing from the vibrant Las Vegas music scene, burst onto the R&B landscape with their debut album, "No Doubt," in 1996. This seminal record featured the chart-topping single "Steelo," which boasted a guest appearance by the prolific Missy Elliott.
Three years later, the group unleashed their smash hit "Where My Girls At?" (co-written by Elliott), which ascended to No. 4 on the prestigious Billboard H*t 100 chart.
Chart-Topping Success and Final Album
Their eponymous sophomore album, "702," released in 1999, achieved impressive chart positions, reaching No.
7 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and No. 34 on the Billboard 200. In 2003, 702 released their final studio album, "Star," featuring production by the illustrious Neptunes and guest appearances by Clipse and Pharrell Williams.
Subsequently, the group embarked on separate paths a few years later. Following the heart-rending news of Irish Grinstead's passing, Kameelah Williams, another integral member of 702, took to social media to share a touching tribute, reflecting on their enduring friendship since childhood.
Missy Elliott, who played a pivotal role in 702's musical journey, expressed her condolences through a heartfelt post on the platform formerly known as Twitter. She offered solace to Irish's soul, wishing for her to find eternal peace in the comforting embrace of the Lord, and extended a multitude of prayers to the entire Grinstead family.
The music world mourns the loss of a talented artist, and fans worldwide share in the sorrow, remembering Irish Grinstead's indelible contributions to R&B music.
