by Alex HendersonAlthough she now records as a solo artist, Los Angeles resident Nichole "Nicci" Gilbert is best known for her years as the lead singer of Brownstone--one of the top urban contemporary female vocal groups of the 90s. Brownstone only provided two albums before breaking up, but while they were together, they were quite popular. Often compared to En Vogue, TLC, SWV and Destiny's Child, Gilbert's Brownstone shouldn't be confused with a 70s group that had the same name. \r \r Gilbert isn't from L.A. originally; the urban contemporary/neo-soul vocalist grew up in Detroit, where her mother was a jazz singer. Gilbert's mom did a lot to encourage her interest in music, and when she was in high school, Gilbert performed Madonna's "Crazy for You" in a talent show. After graduating from high school, Gilbert studied music and drama at Eastern Michigan University. But she ended up dropping out after two years so that she could move...