Fergie to Leave the Black Eyed Peas: What Will This Mean for the Band?

They are considered one of the world's biggest names in music. They are the Black Eyed Peas. Originally formed in 1995, the group once consisted of just three members: Will.I.Am, apl.de.ap, and Taboo (Fergie was joined the group in 2001.) But there is a possibility that the quartet could once again become a trio-as Fergie has allegedly stated that she wants out.

The Black Eyed Peas were once considered a fairly hardcore hip-hop group prior to procuring the bombshell singer. Stacy Ferguson, a member of the defunct girl group Wild Orchid was recruited in 2001 after having worked with them on their third album, Elephunk. Ferguson showcased her vocals on the hit single "Shut Up!" and remained a staple of the group ever since.

The band, which is noted for its avant-garde style of dress and amazingly animated stage shows, has become a worldwide cult favorite-garnering fans from every nook and cranny of the world. Some might say that Fergie's saucy presence in the band has a lot to do with the Black Eyed Peas' international success since the year 2003. But according to RadarOnline.com, Fergie (along with other band members) is having a difficult time with proclaimed "leader" Will.I.Am and is ready to leave the group. Other reasons have been acknowledged for Fergie's impending split: the singer would like to start a family with her husband, actor Josh Duhamel. But apparently, she's simply grown weary of the whole act.

What would the Black Eyed Peas be like without Fergie? Many might speculate a rapid decline in the band's popularity. Without the lone female member's sex appeal to spice up the show, would as many people remain tried-and-true fans? To answer this question, first one might need to consider the kind of fan base the Peas had prior to the singer's addition to the band.

Suffice it to say that the group has enjoyed much more commercial success since Fergie has been a member. The implication that sex sells might seem a little chauvinistic in this instance. After all, Stacy can sing, dance-and has songwriting skills. But is the world as in love with her ability to pen catchy hooks as much as they are her sexy persona? Perhaps. But in 2011, none of that will matter. Rumors are flying that Fergie is dead-set on leaving the group-and will not commit to any further tour dates past the summer of 2010.

What will the Black Eyed Peas be like without Stacy Ferguson? For many, her departure will mark a sad day in musical history. But others may simply recollect the days when the Peas spent more energy perfecting a craft that revolved around their staunch hip-hop roots.

SOURCES:

www.radaronline.com
www.mtv.com
www.rollingstone.com