New Edition is an iconic American R&B/pop group known for their influential contributions to the music industry, particularly during the 1980s. Originating from the Roxbury neighborhood of Boston, Massachusetts, the group was formed in 1978 as a modern take on the popular boy band concept, inspired by the legendary Jackson 5. The lineup initially included Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, Ronnie DeVoe, Bobby Brown, and Ralph Tresvant, with their debut single "Candy Girl" released in 1983, which became a significant hit and solidified their standing in the music scene.

The group's early years were marked by a series of successful singles that showcased their vocal talent and harmonies, including "Cool It Now" and "Mr. Telephone Man." Ralph Tresvant often took the lead on many songs, contributing to the group's unique sound. However, in late 1985, Bobby Brown departed to pursue a solo career that would eventually lead to substantial success. The group continued as a quartet for a brief period before welcoming Johnny Gill into the fold in 1987, further enhancing their dynamic and musical versatility.

New Edition's trajectory shifted in the early 1990s when both Gill and Tresvant launched solo careers, while Bell, Bivins, and DeVoe formed the trio Bell Biv DeVoe. This transition marked a hiatus for the group, which lasted through the first half of the decade. In 1996, all six members reunited to record "Home Again," their sixth studio album. The accompanying tour faced challenges as both Brown and Bivins exited, leading to the cancellation of subsequent performances.

In the years that followed, New Edition experienced several reunions, primarily featuring the 1987 to 1990 lineup, with occasional appearances by Brown. Their last studio album, "One Love," was released in 2004, but the group's legacy continued to grow. In 2011, they announced a celebration marking the 30th anniversary of "Candy Girl," which reignited their fanbase's enthusiasm. This resurgence culminated in a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame awarded on January 23, 2017, further cementing their status as R&B legends.

The group gained renewed visibility with the release of the three-part docuseries "The New Edition Story" on BET, which premiered on January 24, 2017, chronicling their journey both as a collective and as individual artists. The success of this project led to plans for a new album and another tour involving all six members. Their contributions to the music industry were recognized once again when they were inducted into the Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame on February 17, 2022.

New Edition continues to perform and connect with fans. On December 31, 2022, they participated in "Dick Clark's New Year's Rocking Eve with Ryan Seacrest," showcasing their enduring appeal with performances that included their classic hits as well as solo material. Their influence and legacy were further acknowledged on September 24, 2023, when they were inducted into the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame, celebrating their significant impact on the genre and the music industry as a whole.