Perri Reid (born Perri Arlette McKissack), best known by her former stage name, Pebbles, is an American dance-pop and urban contemporary singer-songwriter.
Pebbles got her start in 1981 as a backing vocalist for the percussionist/band leader Bill Summers and the funk band Con Funk Shun. Reid co-wrote one of Con Funk Shun’s singles, “Body Lovers”.
While working at an Oakland, California real estate office she met contractor George L. Smith. Smith bankrolled Pebbles with $80,000 for a demo tape and video for “Mercedes Boy”. The demo and video led to a contract with MCA. Smith and Pebbles married in 1985 and made their home in San Francisco.
Pebbles recorded several hit singles on her own during the late 1980s and early 1990s (including “Girlfriend” and “Mercedes Boy”). She also sang background vocals on Paula Abdul’s album Forever Your Girl in 1988.
“Mercedes Boy” reached #2 on the Hot 100, behind “The Flame” by Cheap Trick, and also #1 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks chart. It was performed on Soul Train where it was (correctly) predicted to become a top ten hit. “Mercedes Boy” also peaked at number two for two weeks on the dance charts.
The US 12″ singles featured remixes by Louil Silas. Jr with Steve Beltran remixing the Dub Version.
Mercedes Boy (Extended Version) 7:20
Mercedes Boy (Radio Edit) 5:10
Mercedes Boy (Instrumental) 7:20
Mercedes Boy (Dub) 7:29
Mercedes Boy (Bonus Beats) 3:38
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