A former telephone operator with MCI, Chi (pronounced SHY) McBride originally planned to pursue a career in music. After studying several instruments and singing with gospel choirs in his native Chicago, the heavyset African-American relocated to Atlanta to work for the long distance company. His first success in show business came with the hit song "He's the Champ" that parodied the marriage of boxer Mike Tyson and actress Robin Givens. Based on the tune's success, McBride was signed by Esquire Records and he joined the rhythm and blues band Covert.Convinced he should try his hand in front of
