Color Me Badd Members Who Died
Color Me Badd is a 1990s R&B vocal group best known for hits like "I Wanna Sex You Up." As of the newest public records, two former members have died. Mark Calderon, a founding member, died in 2016 at age 46 from complications related to a pulmonary embolism. Kevin Thornton, another original member, died in 2022 at age 54 from a heart attack. Their deaths have prompted renewed searches for the group's history and legacy. Details about their careers and deaths are available on music databases and news archives like Billboard.
The group formed in Oklahoma City in 1985 and rose to fame after appearing on the New Jack Swing scene. Original members included Mark Calderon, Kevin Thornton, Bryan Abrams, and Sam Watters. After Calderon and Thornton died, the surviving members continued performing under the Color Me Badd name. The group's discography includes albums released through Giant Records and Warner Bros. Records. Their chart history is tracked on platforms such as AllMusic.
Cause of Death and Circumstances
Mark Calderon Death
Mark Calderon died on September 9, 2016. The cause of death was a pulmonary embolism, a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs. Reports indicate he had underlying health issues that contributed to the fatal clot. His death was confirmed by family members and reported by entertainment outlets. The group paid tribute to him on social media and during live performances.
Kevin Thornton Death
Kevin Thornton died on June 25, 2022. The cause of death was a heart attack, according to initial reports from family and associates. He was 54 years old at the time. Thornton had remained involved in music and community events in the years before his passing. His death was covered by outlets such as Rolling Stone.
Surviving Members and Group Legacy
Current Lineup and Activity
Bryan Abrams and Sam Watters are the surviving core members of Color Me Badd. They have continued to tour and perform the group's classic hits. The group's catalog is managed through legacy rights and licensing deals with major labels. Newer fans discover the group through streaming platforms and classic R&B playlists. Their music remains a reference point for 1990s R&B production styles.
Cultural Impact and Streaming Data
Color Me Badd's songs continue to receive millions of streams on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. "I Wanna Sex You Up" is frequently cited in lists of top 1990s R&B tracks. The group's story is referenced in documentaries about the New Jack Swing era. Their influence appears in the work of later R&B and hip-hop artists. Chart performance and sales data are tracked by services such as Luminate.