Lil Mama, Chilli and T-Boz

Who knew that Lil Mama was such a hot commodity in the music industry? Although she hasn’t scored a hit in years, the 23-year old rapper has stuck a chord with the members of TLC and will temporarily replace fallen member Left Eye on the group’s upcoming greatest hits album, due later this year.

Under the guidance of LA Reid, who first signed TLC to LaFace Records in 1991, the rejuvenated trio will release their compilation on October 15. Lil Mama, who plays Left Eye in the upcoming CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story biopic, will appear on the record and will also perform with the group at Vh1’s Mixtape Festival July 26-27.

“For 10 years we have been mourning the death of our sister Lisa, and although we have discussed the option of bringing in someone to perform with us, it never felt right at the time,” stated Chilli. “Watching Lil Mama on the set of our movie CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story reminded us of Lisa’s spirit, and, for the first time since her passing, we felt everything come together in an organic way.”

“Lil Mama’s authentic style, although very different from Lisa’s, got our creative juices flowing,” T-Boz added. “By bringing her in, we will continue to keep TLC’s music alive for a new generation of fans. We are thrilled to be writing this new chapter in The TLC story.”

Of course, Lil Mama understands the magnitude of this opportunity. “Lisa Lopes was a one-of-kind performer who cannot be replaced. I am grateful to Chilli and T-Boz for the confidence they had in me to portray her in the film and to invite me to perform and record with them and pay tribute to her incredible talent.”

TLC’s greatest hits set will include the new songs “Meant to Be,” which was penned by Ne-Yo, and “Posh Life. The latter tune was was produced and co-written by Dallas Austin with the assistance of Lady Gaga. For a bit of nostalgia, watch TLC’s “No Scrubs” video below:

Info via Rap-Up!

Thoughts?