(This is a series of post where I share the music that I grew up listening to.)
Every generation thinks the music of their youth is better than what’s being played today. In my case, it is actually true. Let me present, New Edition.
New Edition is an R & B group that was formed in Boston in 1978. The group consisted of members Ronnie DeVoe, Ralph Tresvant, Bobby Brown, Michael Bivins, and Ricky Bell. They have been called the originators of the boy band movement that began in the ’80s and ’90s. Their debut album, “Candy Girl” was released in 1983.
I remember hearing and seeing this group for the first time. When “Candy Girl” came on the radio it felt like they were singing to me. My 14-year-old self fell in love. My best friend, Elaine, and I spent hours perfecting dance steps and singing along. We each picked a favorite as our “boyfriend”. I chose Ronnie. Elaine picked Ralph. I saved my lunch money to buy any teen magazine that had them on the cover. I begged for every album until I got a part-time job and could buy them myself.
New Edition and I grew up together. I was there when Bobby left the group in 1985. I hung in there when Johnny Gill joined the guys in 1988. I supported each of the member’s side projects (BBD (Poison), Bobby (Don’t Be Cruel), and Ralph “Mr. Sensitivity”). I could never get that excited about Johnny although “My, My, My” was a jam. I know some people loved him but I never could.
So here is a musical shout out to the boys from Boston. They captured teen hearts everywhere. And my adult self still has a soft spot for their music.
Where it all began – “Candy Girl”
“Mr. Telephone Man”
“Cool It Now”
“Count Me Out”
“If It Isn’t Love”- I can still do the steps to this one!
“Can You Stand the Rain”
“N.E. Heartbreak”
All grown up – “Still in Love”
“Hit Me Off”
BONUS: I’ve seen them in concert three times and would go again! Ronnie, Bobby, Ricky, Mike, Ralph and Johnny too!
Enjoy!