In a surprising turn for long-time fans, Rhona Bennett has officially announced her exit from the iconic R&B group En Vogue, ending a tenure that spanned more than 20 years. Her announcement comes in the wake of a notable absence—and reportedly strained communication—surrounding the group’s recent Rock & Roll Hall of Fame performance.
Departure Sparked by Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Snub
According to a personal statement shared publicly, Bennett said she learned she was not invited to perform with En Vogue at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame event on November 8—the very night she had been approved to host her own separate engagement. She claims she discovered the performance “at the same time as the public,” leaving her unable to realign her schedule in time.
“It could’ve been nice to attend had I been given the opportunity to adjust my schedule,” she wrote, calling the exclusion a sign of deeper “communication breakdown.”
A New Season: Creativity, Truth & Growth
In her Instagram announcement, Bennett framed her departure as a thoughtful and deliberate choice:
“I’m stepping into a new season of creativity, freedom, and contribution. Growth can sometimes create discomfort … I’m deeply grateful for the years of connection with En Vogue … Thank you, EV.”
She went on to tease her next moves, including a new single titled “It’s Christmas Time (For You and I)”, along with a broader slate of music, coaching, and speaking projects.
Legacy with the Group
Bennett first joined En Vogue in 2003 during a period of lineup changes. Over the years, she contributed to the group’s work on their Electric Café album (2018), toured extensively, and appeared in the Lifetime holiday film An En Vogue Christmas (2014).
Her exit comes on the heels of a major reunion: original member Maxine Jones rejoined En Vogue earlier in 2025, reuniting with Rhona, Terry Ellis, and Cindy Herron for a standout NBA All-Star Game halftime performance. Some believe internal dynamics shifted following Jones’s return.
Reactions & Context
Bennett’s departure has sparked conversation among fans and industry observers, especially given past tensions within the group. Dawn Robinson, an original En Vogue member, has in the past openly criticized Bennett’s role in the group, stating she believed Bennett should “step back” for future reunions.
As news of Bennett’s exit spreads, fans have reacted with a mix of disappointment, support, and curiosity about the next chapter for both her and En Vogue.
What’s Next
For Bennett: She has signaled a pivot toward personal and creative growth, with new music, coaching, and public speaking on the horizon.
For En Vogue: With Bennett stepping away, the group’s future lineup and direction could shift—especially as they continue touring with Jones back in the fold.
Bennett’s exit marks the end of a significant era for En Vogue—and the beginning of a decidedly personal new journey for her. Fans will be watching closely to see where her “next frontier” leads.
