Nu Shooz

Formed in 1979 by guitarist John Smith, Nu Shooz started as a jazz-funk band with their 1982 debut album, Can't Turn It Off. The group's lineup changed, but Smith and vocalist/percussionist Valerie Day remained the core duo. Their breakout hit "I Can't Wait" was remixed by Dutch DJ Peter Slaghuis, gaining momentum and reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 in June 1986. Their success continued with follow-up single "Point of No Return," propelling their second album, Poolside, to gold-selling status in the U.S. Despite a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist, Nu Shooz's later releases didn't match the success of their early hits.

After a hiatus, Smith and Day regrouped to continue performing as Nu Shooz. They released additional music, including Pandora's Box (2006) and Kung Pao Kitchen (2012). Smith pursued composing for films and ads, while Day ventured into big-band/swing music and teaching. "I Can't Wait" maintained its popularity through covers, samples, and placements in various media, solidifying Nu Shooz's place in '80s pop culture.