“Girl You Know It’s True” is a song by the pop duo Milli Vanilli, released in June 1988 as their debut single. The song is also the title track of their debut album in the United States (All or Nothing outside North America). It became a significant hit and is widely known for its catchy hook and danceable beat, but it also became infamous due to the scandal involving the duo’s use of session singers. The song “Girl You Know It’s True” was originally recorded by a Baltimore-based group called Numarx in 1987.
German producer Frank Farian, who produced Milli Vanilli, decided to cover the song with his new act. Milli Vanilli was composed of Rob Pilatus and Fab Morvan, who were chosen for their marketable looks and dancing abilities rather than their singing talent. Frank Farian used session musicians and vocalists to record the track, with Brad Howell and Charles Shaw providing the lead vocals. Rob and Fab were presented as the frontmen of Milli Vanilli, but they did not sing on any of their records.
Musically, “Girl You Know It’s True” is a dance-pop and hip-hop track characterized by its upbeat tempo, prominent bassline, and infectious hook. The song features a mix of synthesizers, drum machines, and catchy melodies typical of late 1980s pop music. “Girl You Know It’s True” was a commercial success, becoming a major hit in the United States and internationally. It peaked at number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and topped the charts in several countries, including Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The song’s success helped propel Milli Vanilli to stardom and paved the way for subsequent hits.
In 1990, the truth about Milli Vanilli’s lip-syncing scandal was revealed. During a live performance, a playback error caused the backing track to skip, exposing the fact that Rob and Fab were not singing live. Under increasing scrutiny, Frank Farian admitted that the duo had not sung on their records. This revelation led to the duo being stripped of their Grammy Award for Best New Artist, and their credibility was severely damaged.
Despite the scandal, “Girl You Know It’s True” remains a significant track from the late 1980s. The song is often remembered for its catchy sound and the controversy that surrounded Milli Vanilli. In later years, Fab Morvan attempted to rebuild his career as a legitimate singer, while Rob Pilatus struggled with various personal issues and tragically passed away in 1998.