Coming off a successful string of debut releases from Hip Hop artists
Craig Mack and the
Notorious BIG, Bad Boy Records released
Faith on August 29, 1995. Upon the release of
Faith Evans' debut album, she was quickly dubbed as the heir apparent to the throne of the brand new genre Hip Hop/Soul.
During this juncture, there were a plethora of women looking to make their mark on the industry as solo acts and breakthrough. She capitalized on the momentum laid down by her Bad Boy brethren and seized the moment. The young, upstart label was ushering in fresh talent to cultivate in its own image. Evans became the first lady of Bad Boy after being signed by
Sean “Puff Daddy” Combs in early 1994. He clearly saw something in the young songstress and his gamble paid off decisively. Her debut offering delivered an unprecedented amount of success to the artist and label alike.
