The Cut is a 1998 MTV talent series hosted by TLC member Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes. MTV's The Cut, was a precursor of sorts to American Idol. A handful of would-be pop stars, rappers, and rock bands competed against each other and were judged. The show's final winner, which ended up being a male-female rap duo named Silky, was promised a record deal and MTV's funding to produce a music video, which would enter MTV's heavy rotation.

Anastacia then unknown singer-dancer, came in 2nd place in the competition, but was still signed to a record label in 1998.