COVER STORY
For R&B boy bands, New Edition remains the gold standard, influencing generations of artists and captivating audiences with their infectious energy and timeless music. Emerging from the Orchard Park Projects in Roxbury, Massachusetts, like roses growing through concrete, Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, Bobby Brown, Ralph Tresvant and Ronnie DeVoe embarked on a youthful pursuit of music around 1978—one that would redefine the genre and cement their place in music history. Their songs became the soundtrack to teenagers’ lives, resonating with fans worldwide.
Inspired by the Jackson 5, they honed their vocal harmonies and choreographed dance routines, drawing from the legendary group’s polished performances. Their dedication was evident as they frequently appeared at local talent shows and community centers. They weren’t chasing stardom at the time—they loved to entertain. Willing to perform for free or accept meager earnings, they demonstrated the ambition to propel them to success eventually. Their relentless work ethic caught the attention of Brooke Payne in 1982, who volunteered to manage them.
A turning point in the group’s journey occurred when Maurice Starr saw them at the Strand Theater during another showcase. Though they placed second, Starr recognized something special and quickly began working with them in his Boston studio on their sound and image. The 1980s were a defining era for fashion—Jordache jeans and Members Only jackets for the guys, and neon colors, jelly shoes and mini skirts for the girls. As New Edition’s popularity grew, they became a signature part of that era’s identity, blending seamlessly with the cultural shifts of the time.
In 1983, the group debuted its puppy love anthem, “Candy Girl”. The track quickly ascended the charts, introduced the world to their signature style and solidified their place in the R&B world. Once the song reached number one on the R&B chart, it became a global hit and established New Edition as a dominant force in the music scene. Following their early success, they released a string of hits like “Mr. Telephone Man,” “Is This the End” and “Popcorn Love,” further cementing their status as rising R&B stars.
New Edition’s impact on music is undeniable. They paved the way for boy bands like Boyz II Men, Soul for Real, Dru Hill, Backstreet Boys and NSYNC. Their blend of R&B, pop and hip-hop, coupled with their attention-grabbing stage presence, became a blueprint for future artists. Their wholesome image and boy-next-door charm made them relatable to a broad audience, transcending racial and socioeconomic barriers typically reflected in music charts..
As with many groups, New Edition’s internal dynamics eventually shifted. In 1985, Brown, known for his charisma, exercised his prerogative and decided to go solo. His departure allowed Johnny Gill to join the group in 1987. Gill’s svelte but raw, soulful vocals added a new dimension to New Edition’s brand, allowing the group to evolve. Despite the lineup changes, their artistic growth was apparent with “Can You Stand the Rain,” showcasing their maturation as a group and as individuals.
By the late 1980s and 1990s, New Edition had reached peak success. Their album “Heart Break” (1988), demonstrated their versatility, incorporating new jack swing and hip-hop into their classic R&B sound. They proved capable of adapting to musical trends while maintaining their distinct style. This adaptability was key to their enduring popularity. Still, the members also pursued successful solo and collaborative careers. Brown became a superstar with hits like “Tenderoni” and “Don’t Be Cruel.” Tresvant and Gill also found success as solo artists. Meanwhile, Bell Biv DeVoe dominated the new jack swing movement with tracks like “Poison” and “I Do Need You.”
Despite facing internal and external challenges, New Edition’s resilience shone through. In 1996, the group released “Home Again,” an album that demonstrated their ability to reclaim their place at the top of the charts while staying true to their R&B roots. As Tresvant put it, “We’ve been able to stand the rain, the ins and outs [and] the ups and downs,” reflecting on the group’s ability to endure and remain united in an interview with Vibe Magazine.
The 2017 BET miniseries “The New Edition Story,” brought the group’s journey to a new generation of fans. The series was a commercial success, reigniting interest in their music and introducing it to younger audiences. This renewed recognition bolstered their cultural footprint and staying power.
New Edition has remained committed to their faith and brotherhood throughout their career. Their shared faith has guided them through both the highs and lows. As Bivins said to Vibe Magazine, “We pray together,” which has been the foundation of their 40-year bond.
As they take the stage at this year’s “Jazz in the Gardens”, Ronnie, Bobby, Ricky, Mike, Ralph and Johnny are set to deliver more than just a concert—it’s a celebration of the music that has strengthened their bond with each other and their devoted audience. Every song they perform is a tribute to those who have supported them over the decades, reflecting their past, present and future—a long-lasting legacy that will continue to impress for the next 40 years.
