Rozonda Thomas, who goes by the stage name Chilli, is a talented singer, dancer, and actress. She is known for her work with the group TLC.
Currently, Thomas is in a relationship with Matthew Lawrence. Previously, she was famously linked with Usher. Let's delve deeper into her romantic history.
Currently Dating Matthew Lawrence
Rozonda Thomas and Matthew Lawrence began dating in November 2022. They made their relationship public on Instagram on New Year's Eve of the same year.
Rozonda Thomas and her partner, Matthew Lawrence SOURCE: Instagram @therealchilli
Since then, Chilli has been sharing posts about Matthew on his Instagram account now and then. It's clear that they enjoy each other's company and aren't shy about showing their affection for one another on social media.
How Did The Two Meet?
Chilli and Lawrence first crossed paths at the '90s Con event in 2022. It was just a passing encounter at first, perhaps amid the hustle and bustle of the event. However, that initial meeting sparked something between them.
Rozonda and Matthew's paths almost wouldn't cross if it weren't for a stroke of luck during a big snowstorm. It was this unexpected weather event that brought them together on the same flight.
In the early stages of their relationship, the singer and actor shared a genuine friendship. They spent about five or six months simply talking on the phone, despite the long distance between them.
Managing The Long Distance Relationship
Rozonda and Matthew are navigating the ups and downs of a long-distance relationship. She is based in Atlanta and he is residing in Los Angeles. Despite the physical distance, they've managed to maintain a strong connection.
Rozonda Thomas and Matthew Lawrence at an event SOURCE: Pinterest
Chilli shared with People magazine that they excel at communicating with each other. It has been crucial for their relationship's success. She emphasized that she didn't want a relationship that felt like constant hard work. Remarkably, they've never had a single argument.
Lawrence's Previous Marriage
Before embarking on his relationship with Chilli, Matthew was previously married to Cheryl Burke. Their marriage lasted from May 23, 2019, until September 19, 2022.
Interestingly, news of Rozonda and Matthew's relationship emerged just over three months after he and Burke finalized their divorce.
Famously Dated Usher In The Past
Rozonda Thomas is famously known for her past relationship with Usher. She officially dated the R&B singer from 2001 to 2004. Despite their breakup, they would occasionally reconnect in the years that followed.
Rozonda Thomas and her ex-partner, Usher SOURCE: Pinterest
Eventually, Rozonda decided to cut all contact with the "Yeah!" singer in 2019. It signaled the end of their romantic involvement.
How Did The Two Meet?
Chilli and Usher's connection traces back to their shared involvement with LaFace Records. It was the label to which he was signed. It was within the vibrant music industry atmosphere that their paths first crossed.
Both artists were pursuing their musical careers under the same label. This common professional environment likely facilitated their introduction and provided opportunities for collaboration and interaction.
Working Together
During their relationship, Chilli made cameo appearances in several of Usher's music videos. They featured in the videos of "U Remind Me" and "U Got It Bad."
These collaborations allowed the two to blend their professional lives with their relationship. Her presence in these videos added authenticity and depth, as fans could witness their connection firsthand.
What Ended The Relationship?
Thomas and Usher's relationship came to an end primarily due to differences in values and trust issues that arose between them, as reported in Entertainment Tonight. The "Waterfalls" singer shed light on their past connection in a candid interview with People magazine in 2023.
The TLC member revealed that while they had undeniable chemistry, it didn't necessarily translate into a successful personal relationship. She acknowledged that their dynamic was strong when it came to working together. However, outside of those contexts, they struggled to bridge the gap between their differing personalities.
Did Usher Cheat?
The question of whether Usher cheated during his relationship with Rozonda Thomas has been a topic of speculation and discussion over the years. In 2004, she hinted at infidelity playing a role in their breakup during an interview on The Bert Show.
Usher in a Photoshoot SOURCE: Instagram @usher
Additionally, during an episode of VH1's "Behind the Music," Chilli mentioned hearing rumors of infidelity and confronting the "Love in This Club" singer about them. She claimed that he admitted to it. However, in 2013, she clarified her previous statements, asserting that he never cheated on her.
Dating History
Thomas has had a varied dating history, with relationships spanning over the years. From her time with Nick Cannon in 2016 to her involvement with Brad James in 2015-2016, she's had experiences with different partners.
Wayne Brady and Tyrese Gibson were significant figures in the singer's romantic life from 2013 to 2014 and 2011 to 2012, respectively. Her relationship with Floyd Mayweather Jr. lasted from 2008 to 2010, followed by T.J. Holmes in 2006-2007.
Additionally, Chilli was romantically linked to Marlon Wayans and Dallas Austin from 1990 to 1999. Apart from these relationships, she also had encounters with Larry Johnson from 2008 to 2009 and Hill Harper in 2006. There have been rumors suggesting a connection with L.A. Reid in 1994.
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