TLC’s 1999 hit “No Scrubs” has become a timeless anthem for women all over the world. The catchy beat, iconic lyrics, and message of self-worth have solidified the song’s place in pop culture history. Written by Kevin “She’kspere” Briggs, Kandi Burruss, and Tameka “Tiny” Cottle, “No Scrubs” was released as the lead single from TLC’s third studio album, “FanMail.”
The song’s message is clear: women don’t need men who can’t provide for them or treat them with respect. The lyrics, “I don’t want no scrub / A scrub is a guy that can’t get no love from me” have become a cultural touchstone, inspiring countless memes and TikTok videos. The song was a massive commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.
“No Scrubs” continues to resonate with women today, almost 25 years after its initial release. Its message of self-worth and empowerment is just as important now as it was in 1999. The song has been covered and remixed countless times, further cementing its place in popular culture. It’s a testament to TLC’s lasting impact on the music industry and their ability to create songs that are not only catchy but meaningful as well.
Fun Fact
The iconic opening line of “No Scrubs” – “A scrub is a guy that thinks he’s fly and is also known as a busta” – was actually inspired by a comment made by TLC’s hairstylist. The stylist, who was a man, made a remark about how women should avoid “scrubs”, and the phrase stuck with the group and made its way into the song.
About the Artist
TLC was an American girl group formed in Atlanta, Georgia in 1990. The group’s best-known line-up was composed of Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins, Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes and Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas. The group enjoyed success during the 1990s, with nine top-ten hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including four number-one singles: “Creep”, “Waterfalls”, “No Scrubs”, and “Unpretty”. The group also recorded four multi-platinum albums, including CrazySexyCool (1994), which received a diamond certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
