Remembering Natina Reed of Blaque Who Died At Age 31 After Being Struck By A Car - Just 2 Days Shy of Her 32nd Birthday

Natina Reed, a founding member of the R&B girl group Blaque, left behind a legacy of talent, promise, and unfulfilled potential when her life was tragically taken at just 31 years old, only two days before her 32nd birthday. Her sudden passing shocked fans, friends, and the music industry, serving as a painful reminder of how quickly life can change.

Born October 26, 1980, in New York City, Natina Reed was drawn to music and performance at an early age. She later moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where her path would change forever. In the late 1990s, she became a member of Blaque alongside Brandi Williams and Shamari Fears. The group was discovered and mentored by Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes of TLC, who saw something special in the trio and played a key role in shaping their sound, image, and career.

Blaque quickly rose to fame with their self-titled debut album Blaque in 1999, which featured the smash hit “808.” The song became a cultural staple, dominating radio and earning platinum status. Their success continued with singles like “Bring It All to Me” and “As If,” establishing Blaque as one of the standout R&B girl groups of the era. Natina, known for her edgy presence and confident delivery, brought balance to the group with her rap verses and bold personality.

Beyond music, Natina Reed also made her mark in film. She appeared in the 2000 cult-classic cheerleading movie Bring It On, playing one of the members of the East Compton Clovers. The role introduced her to a wider audience and hinted at a promising acting career that many believed was just getting started.

Despite her success, Natina’s life was not without challenges. Like many young artists navigating fame at an early age, she faced personal struggles behind the scenes. Still, those close to her often spoke of her resilience, her love for her family, and her dedication to her craft. She was a mother, an artist, and a woman still searching for her next chapter.

Tragically, on October 26, 2012, Natina Reed was struck by a car on a roadway in suburban Atlanta and pronounced dead at the scene. The news sent shockwaves through the entertainment world. The cruel timing—her death occurring just two days before her birthday—made the loss even harder to comprehend.

In the years since her passing, fans continue to celebrate Natina Reed for what she represented: a fearless artist, a trailblazer of late-’90s and early-2000s R&B, and a vital part of Blaque’s sound and identity. Her work still lives on through the music, films, and memories she left behind.

Natina Reed’s story is one of brilliance interrupted, but not erased. Though her life ended far too soon, her impact remains—etched into a generation’s soundtrack and remembered by those who continue to say her name, play her records, and honor her legacy.