NOTICE! THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS MAJOR SPOILERS ABOUT SEASON 12 OF THE MASKED SINGER!The masked singer The season 12 contestants, the Buffalos, won the Golden Mask Trophy during the season finale, and were revealed to be the legendary singing group Boyz II Men, whose members consist of Wanyá Morris, Nathan Morris and Shawn Stockman. The masked singer season 12 welcomed host Nick Cannon, along with panelists Robin Thicke, Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg, Ken Jeong, and Rita Ora. During The masked singer season 12 premiere, panelists and fans were delighted to discover that Buffalo was actually a group competitor, with three different singers.
The masked singer Season 12 began with Group A, which included Leaf Sheep (John Elway), Showbird (Yvette Nicole Brown), Woodpecker (Marsai Martin), Ship (Paula Cole), and the Buffalos. The Group B competitors consisted of runners-up Wasp (Mario), Dust Bunny (Andy Richter), Chess Piece (Laverne Cox), Bluebell (Natalie Imbruglia) and Goo (Kobie Turner). Group C included Macaron (Bethany Hamilton), Ice King (Drake Bell), Royal Knight (Jana Kramer), Sherlock Hound (Bronson Arroyo), and Strawberry Shortcake (AJ Michalka). Here are the clues that proved the Buffalos were Boyz II Men.
The Masked Singer Season 12 Buffalo Identity Predictions
All speakers agreed with Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg that the buffaloes were men from Boyz II
The masked singer panelists guessed a variety of singing groups for the Buffalos' identity. Jenny thought they might be B2Kand Rita agreed. However, she then speculated that perhaps they were more experienced artists, such as Earth, Wind and Fire. Robin disagreed with Rita and said that perhaps the Buffalos could be from Jonas Brothers world, or perhaps their Masked Ambassador, Nick Lachey, sent the other three members of 98 degrees.
During Free Night, Ken thought the Buffalos were Bell Biv DeVoewhile Jenny thought they could be 112. She also mentioned Boyz II Menbut Robin didn't think any of the Buffalos sounded like them. Robin mentioned the Jonas Brothers again, but later changed his guess to Peak hours. Nick said he thought he knew who the Buffalos were and that they were all very close.
During the My Life Night soundtrack, Jenny again said that she thought the Buffalos sounded a little like B2K, but she also mentioned Boyz II Men again. Ken disagreed and said they were Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. However, the public booed him. Rita thought they could be the Black Peaswithout Fergie, but Robin disagreed.
During The masked singer quarterfinals of season 12, Robin guessed that the Buffalos could be the Temptations. Ken thought it was a great guess, but then mentioned Tony! Tony! Tone!. Rita then theorized that buffaloes could be Black Street.
During the semifinals, after it was revealed that the Buffalos had a connection to Jenny, she again guessed that they were Boyz II Men because member Wanyá Morris had a secret meeting with her and her future husband Donnie when they started dating. Ken said that 99% of him wanted the Buffalos to be Boyz II Men, but the other 1% would go with Color me badly. Nick said he was wrong. Robin used the Babyface clue from the quarterfinals to guess that the Buffalos were After 7but Jenny pointed out that she had no connection with them. Rita was ill and missed the semi-finals, so she wasn't there to give a tip.
During The masked singer In the Season 12 finale, before the Buffalos were unmasked, the panelists offered their final guesses about their identities. Jenny took the lead because she guessed Boyz II Men from the start and explained some of her clues. The panelists then stood up and guessed Boyz II Men in unison in one of the most emotional moments of the Masked Singer history.
The Buffalos' masked ambassador was Nick Lachey
Nick Revealed His Connection to Buffalo
For the first time, former students of The masked singer are serving as Masked Ambassadors who share a connection with the newest contestants. The masked singer Season 5 winner Nick, who competed as Piglet, was the Buffalos' masked ambassador. He said the Buffalos were truly a national treasure and always the center of attention at Nick's epic Super Bowl parties. After the Buffalos performed, Nick sent in another clue, which was a crown. Boyz II Men toured with Nick, and the crown referred to the fact that they are R&B royalty. Additionally, Shawn was a judge on the reality show The Songthat Nick hosted.
The Buffalos' Masked Singer Season 12 Premiere Night Performance and Cues
Clues about Buffalos' life and career have been revealed
During the Buffaloes Masked Singer season 12 premiere night performance of “(I Just) Died in Your Arms” by Cutting Crewthey were revealed to be a trio. The three men sang together in perfect harmony. They also showcased some dance moves. One of the Buffalos had two playing cards with a three and a king on his cowboy hat.
In the Buffalos' clue package, Nick, who appeared on a slot machine, revealed that buffaloes were raised on the poorest pastures and were said to have faced hardship. He shared that the Masked Singer Season 12 contestants slept in beds full of cockroaches at night and practiced at bus stops during the day.
One of the buffaloes was then shown stepping on cockroaches as if in a dance and then standing next to a sign with a football player kneeling at a bus stop. That Buffalo then shared that thanks to a great opportunity at the cattle call, the game was on. The kneeling football player referenced Boyz II Men's hit song “On Bended Knee,” as well as the fact that they once performed on the Super Bowl Halftime Show.
A slot machine revealed photos of Betty White and Vanna White. This clue referred to the fact that although Wanyá and Nathan have the surname Morris, they are not related, just like Betty White and Vanna White. A Buffalo then held up a film strip and said that from then on he was traveling the world. They were on the Walk of Fame and starred in two of the greatest comedies of all time. A Buffalo said they hit the jackpot and couldn't have done it alone.
These clues referenced Boyz II Men for several reasons. Boyz II Men received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2012. The jackpot referred to your Residence in Las Vegas. Furthermore, they had cameos The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and how I Met Your Motherwhich are two of the greatest comedies of all time.
Buffaloes revealed even more clues about themselves
During The masked singer season 12 Free In the evening, the Buffalos sang a spectacular version of “Waiting for a Girl Like You” by Foreigner of the film. In the tips package, they explained how they related to the rebellious spirit of Free. One of them started by asking: “You know when someone tells you you can't do something, you just want to do more?” That Buffalo then explained this, as did the children in Free who longed to dance, each one is rebellious in their own way, who somehow found each other along the trail. This Latest Clue Proved They Were Not Brothers.
The Buffalos were then shown playing poker with each other, which was another reference to their Las Vegas residency.. One of them said that everyone told them they couldn't just do whatever they wanted, but they didn't listen. Another Buffalo said they got it “I don't care what people think. You think we're tacky? Who cares? We're rich!” THE Masked Singer The season 12 contestants went on to say: “And if you think we take ourselves too seriously? Look at us. We're here dressed like some buffaloes from Wrestlemania about to sing a track from Footloose. We're funny as hell.”
The Buffalo continued, “You too, and don't let anyone tell you who or what to be.” At that moment, the Buffalos were seen in a bar, with a black bottle of poison on the table. Another Buffalo continued, “On that note, here's a love song to show how cheesy and rich we are! Word!” The bottle of poison referred to Bell Biv DeVoe, who had a hit song called “Poison”, because Michael Bivins managed and helped produce Boyz II Men when they started.
After the Buffalos' introduction, another clue about their identities was revealed. One of the Men in Black arrived in a small tractor saying: “MO-TOWN,” in front of him. One of the buffaloes explained, “Well, we're a little tired right now because we've been busy using this tractor to cut…grass all over town.” Boyz II Men's first record deal was with Motown Records, and one of their biggest hits is “Motownphilly”.
The My Life soundtrack, nightly performances and Buffalos clues
The Buffaloes Revealed More About Their Personal Lives
On The masked singer Soundtrack to the 12th season of My Life Night, which was also the Group A final, the Buffalos, Ship and Woodpecker opened the show with a lively version of “High Hopes” by Panic! At the disco. The Buffalos then played The Verve's “Bittersweet Symphony”.
The Buffalos began their tip package by marveling that they had reached the Group A finals and stating that they would be “digging deep” and singing “Bittersweet Symphony”. One Buffalo said he learned that the hardest parts of life are when people are forced to be more harmonious. One of the Buffaloes then rang a bell. The bell represented the Liberty Bell, one of Philadelphia's most important landmarks. Philadelphia is the hometown of Boyz II Men. The bell may also be another reference to the DeVoe Bell Biv.
One buffalo explained that as they grew up, they had a cowboy who helped guide and inspire them more. Another said he was their everything, while another added: “He was also a real MacGuyver, always fixing things.” However, one ofand Buffalos then revealed they suddenly lost him. Another explained that they were heartbroken, wondering: “How could God do this to us?” They didn't feel like they could continue. A sign that said: “WELL DEAD”, was then shown. The cul-de-sac sign referred to Boyz II Men's hit “End of the Road.”
The person Boyz II Men lost was their tour manager, Roderick “Khalil” Roundtree, who was murdered in Chicago in 1992. They dedicated their song “It's So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday” to him.
One buffalo said they sang as they laid him to rest, thinking it would be the last time, but they knew he would want them to keep the herd together. So that's what they did. One Buffalo then opened a camouflage-print umbrella. One of them said that although there was a “MacGuyver-shaped hole in our hearts,“ Everything they do is for him, including that performance, and hopefully he would see them reach the quarterfinals, wherever he was watching that night.
After the presentation, one of the Buffalos revealed that they had been in the industry for a long timeand they gained much and lost much. He said the beautiful thing was that they were there sharing their story that night. Then, another clue was revealed about their identities in the form of a time capsule, which was a worn-out t-shirt that said: “Halftime show.”
Buffalo explained that the Halftime Show t-shirt has aged over time like them, but they can tell everyone that this performance was in front of one of the biggest audiences in the world. Boyz II Men performed at the Super Bowl XXXII Halftime Show in 1998 as part of Motown's 40th anniversary celebration.
After Woodpecker was unmasked and revealed to be singer and actress Marsai Martin, the Buffalos and Ship faced off in the Battle Royale, during which both sang their own versions of Fleetwood Mac's “Go Your Own Way”. The panelists then voted the Buffalos into the quarterfinals, while Ship was unmasked and revealed to be singer Paula Cole because they chose not to use the Ding Dong Keep It On Bell.
The Buffalos' Masked Singer Season 12 Quarterfinals Performance and Clues
Buffaloes shared their trials and tribulations
During The masked singer quarter-finals of season 12, Buffalos sang a spine-tingling version of Shania Twain's “You're Still the One” that once again showcased their mind-blowing harmonies. They began their clue package with one of the Buffaloes stating that they had been on a journey like no other three amigos had ever been on. However, he said that this journey took a new turn when they arrived in The masked singer.
The second Buffalo then stated that when they first put on their Buffalo masks, it didn't hide them, but opened them up to who they truly are. The third Buffalo added, “more than friends, more than brothers, a bond beyond words.” However, the first Buffalo then said that something happened years ago to one of them that “it ruined the delicate blend we created.” He explained that everything they did together was cancelled. They thought it was the end. In 2003, original Boyz II Men member Michael McCary, who was the bassist, left the group due to health problems that were diagnosed as multiple sclerosis..
Another Buffalo said this, “through a miracle and the grace of God”, they overcame and became even stronger. The first Buffalo added that they do everything they do, not for themselves, but for the next generation. Another Buffalo stated that he now knows that without a family “We are nothing.” He said that after all this, these two Buffaloes are still the ones he wants by his side. Buffalo concluded by saying that if they had the opportunity to share a moment in the semi-finals, it would be something they would never forget.
After the Buffalos' introduction, another clue was given about their identity. It was a phone call from a loved one. The call was from the singer Babyface. He said: “So you guys are just killing it. I've never seen you guys look better or more ridiculous [laughs]. So keep it up. Bring home the trophy.” Buffalo explained that they always wanted to work with Babyface and finally got the chance, and it changed their lives. Babyface wrote and produced Boyz II Men's hit “I'll Make Love to You”, and also co-wrote and produced “End of the Road”.
After voting, the The buffaloes passed to The masked singer season 12 semi-finals along with Wasp, while Strawberry Shortcake and Goo wrestled on Smackdown. Goo sang an amazing version of Sam & Dave's “Hold On, I'm Comin'”, and Strawberry Shortcake sang a soulful version of Alessia Cara's “Scars to Your Beautiful”, but only one managed to advance. Strawberry Shortcake reached the semi-finals, while Goo was unmasked and revealed to be NFL player Kobie Turner.
The Buffalos' Masked Singer Season 12 Semifinals Performances and Clues
The Buffalos revealed they are performing for the next generation
The masked singer The season 12 semi-finals kicked off with the final 3 contestants – Buffalos, Wasp and Strawberry Shortcake – singing an electrifying rendition of “Some Nights” for fun. Later, they sang an unbelievable version of Toto's “Africa”which once again highlighted their sensational harmonies.
The Buffalos' clue package started with one of them saying they worked hard to get to the semifinals, but that's not weird. Buffalo explained that, coming in, they had to work harder than anyone else. They were constantly told that they should be something else, something they were not, and that they would never achieve it. Another Buffalo stated that he did not hear, and staying true to themselves was the main reason for their success.
One of the Buffalos went on to say that now they know this was an important example to set for the next generation, especially their children. Another Buffalo added that his kids love to singand they sound better than they do. He said: “We thought, 'What have we done? What miracle have we created?'” One Buffalo said hearing their voices changes every day and gives them a real reason to keep going. Wanyá's four children are part of an R&B boy band called WanMor. He also has two daughters. Shawn has three children while Nathan has one.
Another Buffalo agreed that every decision the Buffalos make together is with them in mind to ensure their children have everything they need in this life. The third Buffalo said they were “I'm going to have so much fun seeing your Pops here doing their thing dressed as three awe-inspiring buffaloes.” He said maybe one day it will be their turn. The Buffalos concluded by saying: “Kids, we love you so much. This is for you. Everything is for you.”
After the Buffalos performed, Nick said they talked about how important their bond is and asked what they wanted to say to each other under the masks. One Buffalo replied that first he would say that never in a million years would he think he would be wearing a Buffalo mask, but he was happy to be doing this with his brothers and the best friends he ever had. Two of the Buffaloes then hugged each other.
Next, another clue was given to the identity of the Buffalos, which was a friendship bracelet given to one of the speakers with whom she shared a bond: Jenny. Jenny's friendship bracelet had beads that spelled “Donnie.” Donnie referred to Jenny's husband, Donnie Wahlberg. A Buffalo explained that they have been with Donnie for a long time and also with Jenny.
During the The masked singer semi-finals and final of the 12th season, Jenny explained that Wanyá was there when she and Donnie started dating, and he even had a secret meeting with them. She also reminded everyone that Boyz II Men, New Kids on the Block and Nick Lachey's group 98 Degrees also toured together on The Package Tour.
Before voting, one final clue was given by all semi-finalists to Nick, which was a friendship bracelet with charms representing the three contestants. He said, “From performing with you to attending your epic parties, the three of us have connections to you, the legendary Nick Cannon.” Boyz II Men and Nick headlined BlogHer15 in 2015.
After voting, Wasp progressed to the final with the closest margin that The masked singer already had: 1%. The Buffalos and Strawberry Shortcake competed in the first Smack Royale, performing the same song in an epic duet. After singing OneRepublic's “Counting Stars”, the Buffalos advanced to the season finale, while Strawberry Shortcake was unmasked and revealed to be singer and actress AJ Michalka..
The Buffalos' Masked Singer Season 12 Finale Performances and Clues
The Buffalos shared what it means to them to be a Masked Singer contestant
During The masked singer At the end of Season 12, the Buffalos proved why they deserved to win the Golden Mask Trophy with two surprising performances. They began with a stunning version of Gotye's “Somebody that I Used to Know,” and concluded their appearance on the show with a performance of Sam Smith's “Too Good at Goodbyes,” which finally showcased their signature a cappella harmonies..
The Buffalos began their clue package with one of them saying they were feeling “kind of emotional” about reaching the end. Another Buffalo agreed, stating that The masked singer it was an opportunity for them to rediscover themselves and their bond “in a really cool way.” The third Buffalo stated that he felt they had to adapt a lot in their careerbut “Adaptability has been the name of the game since the jump.” Boyz II Men had to adapt when Michael left the group.
A Buffalo explained that they had to “fight to get out of the neighborhood.” They also had to overcome the passing of one of the most important people in their lives. They still had to “change our whole sound when we lose a member.” A Buffalo continued saying that The masked singer it's been for their fans, their children, for everyone who stuck by them. These clues referred to his hometown of Philadelphia, the loss of his tour manager, and Michael's departure from the group..
Another Buffalo thanked masked ambassador Nick Lachey, who opened the show with a joyful rendition of Andy Williams' “It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” He thanked Nick for serving them as an ambassador. He said they hoped to follow his “winning steps” on the final night.
Another Buffalo concluded by saying: “We are those people you knew, still know, and always will. Maybe even for the next three decades. And since someone is leaving with that Golden Mask, we hope it's us.” Boyz II Men rocketed to stardom over thirty years ago. Then, in what they called the biggest track of the season, the Buffalos spoke in their real, unadulterated voices, saying: “Come on buffaloes!” with each of them saying one word from the sentence.
After the Buffalos' final performance on “Too Good at Goodbyes”, Nick stated that they were clearly legends in the industry and asked them how freeing it was to be the Buffalos. The Buffalo that was Shawn replied: “You know what? It's so freeing. I'm crying right now.” as he choked. The Buffalos hugged, while Shawn laughed, “And I don't even know why.” He continued, “It made me feel like with these guys… we can do anything.“
After the studio audience and panelists voted, Nick announced that he was “very, very, very close” and the winner of season 12 was the Buffalos, who were revealed to be Boyz II Men. Wasp was runner-up, and revealed to be the singer and actor Mario. The Buffalos made history as the first group to win The masked singer.
After they were unmasked and revealed to be the legendary Boyz II Men, the crowd went wild and screamed their name. Nick then asked what made them say that now was the time for them to enter The masked singer. Nathan replied that they were excited because, “when you've been an artist for about 30 years, people tend to try to put you in a hole about what you can and can't do.“
Nathan went on to explain how the legendary group tricked the speakers into not recognizing their voices.. He said: “So we actually got together like we always do and said, 'Listen, we're going to start these songs and slide it one way and push it that way.' Try songs they've never heard us sing before. Swap parts, make people do things they don't do. And then when the competition got fierce, we just had to tighten the screws.
Boyz II Men then gave credit to Mario for being such a worthy competitor. Mario told them, “I wouldn't be here if it weren't for you.” After Nick asked them for some last words as the winners of The masked singer. Wanya said: “Well, we want to say that we really appreciate each and every one of you for allowing us to show our personalities. We love to have fun and you gave us the opportunity, the platform, to have fun.”
Wanyá then gestured towards Nathan and said: “We are so grateful to see this man smile. He never smiles … So, to everyone here who shouted, 'Buffalo!', to everyone in the world, the whole world watching this, this is the blessing that, folks, God has given us. You. To be who we are. So thank you very much.” Wanyá then called Jenny his “another master's sister.”
Boyz II Men has completed its Masked Singer run around like Buffalos singing a rollicking version of their classic hit “Motownphilly.” Nick, Robin, Jenny, Ken and Rita joined them on stage, singing and dancing, along with Mario. It was so obvious how much they are loved by everyone. The audience was applauding loudly and singing along, and it was the best ending to a Masked Singer season in the show's history.
The revelation that Buffalo was actually a trio was the first big surprise of The masked singer season 12and it was very exciting. However, nothing compares to the exciting revelation that they were actually Boyz II Men. They are phenomenal singers who formed a legendary group. Their harmonies are iconic. Like the Buffalos, Boyz II Men fought their way to the Masked Singer season 12 finale, and they took home the Golden Mask trophy in the most memorable, moving and well-deserved victory in the show's history. Boyz II Men were the best Masked Singer competitors ever.
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