Some artists perform songs. THE DIF’RENCE creates experiences!
Hailing from Newport News, Virginia, THE DIF’RENCE—also known as 4 II C—is an exceptional R&B/Soul vocal duo featuring Jerry Hairston and Joe Shivers. Known for breathtaking harmonies, heartfelt songwriting, and an unmistakable old-school sound infused with contemporary soul, the duo continues to captivate audiences with performances that are both timeless and unforgettable.
With more than 40 years of combined professional experience, THE DIF’RENCE has built a reputation as one of the Mid-Atlantic’s premier live vocal acts. Their ability to blend classic soul, smooth R&B, Motown, funk, and pop into a polished, high-energy performance has earned them invitations to some of the region’s most prestigious stages, including the legendary Apollo Theater in New York City, the Virginia Beach Funk Fest, and the Hampton Jazz Festival After Party.
The duo’s latest musical chapter is highlighted by their forthcoming album, Transition, produced by Levi Little, best known as a member of the Grammy Award-winning group Blackstreet. The project showcases THE DIF’RENCE at its creative peak, featuring standout singles including “Must Be Love” and “Givin’ Yourself to Me.” The songs blend rich harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and polished production, reaffirming the duo’s ability to honor the roots of classic R&B while delivering a sound that resonates with today’s audiences.
THE DIF’RENCE’s journey began long before Transition. In 2010, alongside former member Ron “RK” Pierce, the group released its debut album, The Intro, an impressive collection praised for its smooth vocal arrangements and unmistakable homage to the golden era of soul music. With harmonies reminiscent of legendary vocal groups and production that echoed the signature style of Maurice Starr and the early New Edition sound, the album established THE DIF’RENCE as artists committed to preserving authentic R&B craftsmanship.
Beyond recording and touring, THE DIF’RENCE has remained dedicated to serving its community. The duo has donated countless performances in support of nonprofit organizations and national awareness initiatives, believing that music has the power to inspire, heal, and bring people together. Their commitment to community service has become as much a part of their identity as their music.
Whether sharing the stage with nationally recognized recording artists, entertaining audiences alongside renowned comedians, or headlining major festivals, THE DIF’RENCE consistently delivers performances defined by vocal excellence, professionalism, and genuine audience connection. Their chemistry, stage presence, and unmistakable harmonies continue to earn praise from fans and industry professionals alike.
As anticipation builds for the release of Transition, THE DIF’RENCE stands poised to introduce a new generation to the enduring power of real vocals, meaningful songwriting, and classic soul. In an era driven by trends, they remain committed to what has always mattered most—great music, authentic artistry, and unforgettable performances.
Jerry Hairston, Joseph ‘Joe’ Shivers & Ron ‘RK’ Pierce is a group known for their unique vocal style & smooth harmonies. They are backed by the dynamic 4IIC Band (Brett ‘Bam Bam’ Harrell (Bass), Curtis Johnson (Keyboards), Terrail Moody (Drums) & Gordon ‘Guitar’ Banks. As individuals their professional careers span over 25 years in the music industry. They are becoming one of the most sought after male vocal groups along The East Coast. 4IIC has most recently performed at the world famous, legendary, Apollo Theater, and has been one of the highlights of their careers. They have also performed at some of the area’s premier events such as, The Hampton Jazz Festival’s After Party, held at The Hampton Convention Center, Portsmouth’s Umoja Festival, The Virginia Beach Soul Fest and Beach Events Concert Series. They have also contributed their time and talents to Community Non-Profit National Awareness Foundations such as; D.A.R.E., The Kidney Foundation, The Cancer Walk for Life Marathons and The Southeast Community Crime Watch Coalition; sponsored in part by the Newport News Police Department. Their commitment to community service garnered them an invitation to perform at the 2009 Summer Stage “Salute to the Legends” in Harlem, N.Y. The Honorees for this event were Ray, Goodman & Brown, Blue Magic, The Manhattans, Melissa Morgan & Chuck Jackson.
The Artists in attendance were filled with delight as 4IIC performed the legendary ballads “Any Day Now” and “Special Lady.” 4IIC has opened for national recording artists such as, The Manhattans, Keith Sweat and Cherelle. They have also shared the stage with Nationally Recognized Comedians Marc Curry, Coco Brown, Sherri Sinclair and Kool Bubba Ice. In early 2009 they released their first single “Believe in Change” which was written & dedicated to the election of Barrack Obama as the first African -American President of The United States.
Jazz Saxophonist Brian Pinner was honored to have 4IIC perform the title track of his newly released CD “Just Being Me.” 4IIC will be legends in their own time as the road to success seems to be in front of them. The trio has been in the studio and have released “THE INTRO’ which is their first album release, but certainly not their last.
Soul Discovery Show Top Ten out of my Top 50 from 2010 on Solar Radio
1. 4IIC Featuring Brian Pinner “Just being me” (Harmony)
2. Michael Dunston “Turn the lights down low” (Boomtang)
3. XXception to the Rule “Angel in disguise” (Daxwood)
4. Miles Jaye “All to myself” (Black Tree)
5. Queen Emily “No easy way to say goodbye” (Malaco)
6. John Stoddart “Put love, love, love in it” (SD)
7. Floyd Taylor “All Of You, All Of Me” (CDS)
8. Oilwell “You & me” (Moiko)
9.Apostle JL Cash “Thanks for making me wait” (MCG)
10. William Kooly Scott “Twelve O Five” (WS)