Tragedy Hits R&B Group Hi-Five

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We have some really, really, REALLY sad and disappointing news, as tragedy once again hits the group Hi-Five.

That’s because last Wednesday, Hi-Five member Russell Neal was arrested for murder in the stabbing death of his girlfriend.

Neal is 40 years of age, and his girlfriend (Catherine Martinez) was 24. Together, they had two young children, who are currently in the supervision of Martinez’s mother.

This is just so hard to grasp – from all accounts, the two got along great, but then randomly, last Wednesday, Neal drove himself to the Houston police station and said, “My girlfriend is dead. I would like an attorney.”

We will continue to keep all involved in our thoughts and prayers, especially the children and the family members for both sides.

Unfortunately, if you know the history of Hi-Five, who brought us great 90’s songs such as “I Like The Way (The Kissing Game)” and “She’s Playing Hard To Get,” this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to tragedy.

Back in 2007, lead singer Tony Thompson was found dead at the age of 31 from inhaling too much freon outside of an apartment complex in Waco, Texas.

Going even further back, Roderick “Pooh” Clark from the group was involved in a near fatal car accident back in 1993, leaving him with permanent injury.

And finally, in more recent years, back in 2011, Treston Irby of the group was shot five times after performing at a night club.

This all hits home for us on Round Trip because we’ve gotten to know Marcus Sanders from the group very well, and he is a good man. Also, we know two individuals who were around Hi-Five in the early days that say they were all AWESOME guys who came from rough backgrounds. “Hearts of gold,” one told me. It’s sad to see so many bad things happen to such a talented group of young men.

Here’s to no more bad news for this group, its family, friends and fans – and prayers and strength to help heal the pain that has already been inflicted.

In the meantime, if you want to hear the interview we did with Marcus Sanders from the group, click here:

http://roundtripwithdaveo.com/2013/12/hi-five-marcus-sanders/

Until next time – take care, and keep livin’ the 90’s dream…

Dave O

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