"Nathan Michael Shawn Wanya" is the fifth studio album by American R&B group Boyz II Men. The album was released in the United States by Universal Records on March 21, 2000.
The title of the album is a tribute to the four members of the band: Nathan Morris, Michael McCrary, Shawn Stockman, and Wanya Morris.
This album marked the first time Boyz II Men ventured into self-production, meaning they had creative control over the entire process. The album includes the single "Pass You By," which became a top 10 hit on the R&B charts and peaked at number 27 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song "Thank You in Advance" also got significant airplay on the radio.
"Nathan Michael Shawn Wanya" exhibits a more adult and sophisticated sound compared to their previous albums, showcasing the group's maturity and growth both vocally and artistically. While the album didn’t achieve the commercial success of their previous releases, it was praised for its rich harmonies, poignant lyrics, and blend of traditional R&B with contemporary influences.
In terms of critical reception, the album received mixed reviews, with some critics lauding its departure from the group's signature style, while others felt it didn't quite live up to their earlier work. Despite the mixed critical responses, the album demonstrated Boyz II Men’s commitment to their music and their willingness to take risks to evolve their sound.
