New Edition: Roxbury's Renaissance

Photo courtesy of musicconnection.com

By Llerraj Esuod

A Gold Standard in R&B Legacy

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, Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, Bobby Brown, Ralph Tresvant, and Ronnie DeVoe embarked on a youthful pursuit of music in the late 1970s—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.

Early Influences and Humble Beginnings

Inspired by the Jackson 5, the five honed their vocal harmonies and choreographed dance routines, drawing from the legendary group’s polished performances. Their dedication was evident as they regularly performed 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 minor earnings, they demonstrated the ambition to propel them to success eventually.

The Breakout Moment

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.

“Candy Girl” and Chart Domination

In 1983, the group debuted its puppy love anthem, “Candy Girl.” The track quickly ascended the charts, introducing the world to their signature style and solidifying their place in the R&B world. Once they 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, including “Mr. Telephone Man,” “Is This the End,” and “Popcorn Love,” further cementing their status as rising R&B stars.

Cultural Impact and Genre Shaping

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 baby-faced door charm made them relatable to a broad audience, transcending racial and socioeconomic barriers typically seen in music charts.

Transitions and Evolution

As with many groups, New Edition’s internal dynamics eventually led to lineup changes. Bobby Brown, ever ambitious, 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.

Peak Success and Solo Careers

By the late 1980s and early 1990s, New Edition had reached its peak of 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 solo success. Meanwhile, Bell Biv DeVoe dominated the new jack swing movement with tracks like “Poison” and “I Do Need You.”

Resilience and Reunion

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 legacy 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.

Legacy Revived for a New Generation

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 growing legacy.

Still Making History

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 of life. As Bivins said to Vibe Magazine, “We pray together,” which has been the foundation of their 40-year legacy.

As they take the stage at this year’s Jazz in the Gardens in Miami, 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.