Somewhere around the mid-90s, SWV were the voices of contemporary R&B, in some ways personifying just what the whole era in R&B era was about.

They were beautiful, had slick style, voices like angels, and just enough sass. These elements, combined with a strong faith and some of the hottest tunes of the 90s, assured their position as one of the biggest, most successful urban/ R&B groups of the 90s.

With 'Right Here', their superb debut single, they were successful right from the start. But it was their second single, 'I'm So Into You' that really made an impact. When the group hit the big time, singer Coko Clemons was only 18.

Over the last eight years, Clemons has taken her impressive seven octave range and built up a successful career as a gospel singer, and has recently released a solo album, Grateful. In the last few years her priorities have changed as she has had children, and she has become philosophical about her 'dream' time in the spotlight. These days you're more likely to find her at home reading, taking care of her kids, or pursuing her other passion of making candles.

Reminiscin' caught up with Coko Clemons to find her still just as passionate about singing, but living more quietly now and feeling appreciative of her amazing life.

What has been your driving force behind your music?
Coko Clemons: I just love to sing! The fact that I'm still able to sing and people are touched drives me.

How happy are you with 'Grateful' and the reaction to it?
Coko Clemons: I'm very happy with Grateful and how well received it was. I still have my old fans and I've gained a lot of new ones.

How do you think the urban/R&B industry compares now to how it was in the 90s?
Coko Clemons: The 90s was a very good time in music to me. The music said so much more and vocally it was way better than now. It wasn't all about a beat you could dance to but good music you could fall in love to.

What music are you listening to at the moment?
Coko Clemons: I listen to a lot of old school R&B and Gospel.

Do you have a particular song that remains close to you? Or album?
Coko Clemons: Everything that SWV has ever done is special to me.

Do you enjoy travelling? Where's your favourite place to take a vacation?
Coko Clemons: Travelling is cool. My favourite spot is Hawaii. I even thought about moving there at one point.

What's a typical day in the life of Coko Clemons like?
Coko Clemons: A typical day is me taking my kids to school then go to the gym for a while. Then getting my kids from school, eat dinner and that's about it.

How do you juggle family life with your career?
Coko Clemons: It can be hard but my Mom helps me out a lot being that my husband travels a lot as well. But when I'm home I make sure I spend as much time as possible with my kids and husband. Communication is the key.

How have your priorities changed since having kids?
Coko Clemons: I try to be more positive and make sure everything I do is correct, since I have two little ones looking up to me. I want to be their role model instead of them looking outside.

SWV were always really well groomed and beautiful. What's your best beauty advice for those of us who need it?!
Coko Clemons: I don't really have any. I just go with flow. But I do drink plenty of water and exercise.

You're a mom who also manages to look really good - what's your secret?
Coko Clemons: I don't have any secrets. I'm just blessed I guess.

What other passions do you pursue outside of music?
Coko Clemons: I love to read. I could do that all day long. But I also like to make candles. That's something that I'm working on promoting next.

What do you like to do for entertainment?
Coko Clemons: I don't do too much for entertainment. When I'm home I just like to stay home and chill. I don't like going to the movies much. I more of a homebody.

Do you ever look back at what you've achieved and think - WOW!
Coko Clemons: All the time! SWV was and still is a great group and the fact that I was a part of it still feels like a dream to me. So I thank God for that opportunity.

What else would you like to achieve?
Coko Clemons: One day I will have my own record company. That's my ultimate goal!

What's next for Coko Clemons & SWV?
Coko Clemons: SWV is no longer together but as for me, I plan to keep singing, get my candles out there and get started on my label.

Could you tell us your favourite:

Meal: Baked Ziti & my husband's Macaroni & cheese
TV Show: College Hill
Song to sing: Clap Your Hands
Film: Love and Basketball

Related Links:
> www.CokosPlace.com