Payne was crucial to the success of New Edition and is often referred to as the seventh member. He has served as New Edition’s manager since the 90s and is the only choreographer the group has ever had. He is also responsible for the group’s name. He is respected throughout the industry for his guidance and innovative creativity which has been instrumental not only in the group’s successes, but the individual projects of Bobby Brown, Johnny Gill, Ralph Tresvant and the trio Bell Biv DeVoe. The group credits Payne with having a vision for the group early on.
The New Edition formula for longevity is simple, according to Johnny Gill.
“We don’t mess with the magic and what works and the fans appreciate that,” he said.
They are among the few groups that have retained the original melodies and choreography from their recordings and videos, making it a truly nostalgic event when they perform. They understand that their fans appreciate being able to attend a performance after all these years and still be able to follow the choreography and sing along because its all almost identical to what they recall from years ago.
With the current state of R&B, leaning more towards a hip-hop type of vibe, New Edition is always a welcomed break from the edgier R&B that’s prevalent today.
“A little edge is good, but sometimes you need that break, you want that feel-good music that takes you back. A lot of R&B acts are straddling the fence between singer and rapper so we help to bring that balance,” said Ronnie DeVoe.
While they are currently touring together, there are a couple of solo projects in the works. Johnny Gill has a new album coming out titled Behind Closed Doors, and as a bonus for fans the album will feature a new New Edition song. Meanwhile, Ronnie DeVoe and his wife, Shamari Fears, a former member of R&B girl group Blaque, are working on a dance music project under the name Digital DeVoe. The members of New Edition are always supportive of each other’s endeavors.
When reflecting on their long and successful career, Ricky Bell stated, “Let me just say that we have the best fans on the planet and that’s another thing that keeps us coming back to the table, coupled with the fact that we love what we do. A lot of people are not able to make a living doing what they love and we’re able to do that because the fans constantly motivate us to get back on that horse and give the people what they want.”
They are looking forward to their July 25 Chene Park concert because they have a deep affinity for the city.
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