Thirty-five years ago, Bell Biv DeVoe stepped out of the shadows of New Edition and into the spotlight with the release of their debut album, Poison. Dropping on March 20, 1990, the album not only marked their first project as a trio but also helped define the New Jack Swing era, blending R&B, hip-hop, and streetwise swagger into a sound that left a lasting impact on music.
The group consisted of Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, and Ronnie DeVoe, and it was formed following the breakup of New Edition in the late 1980s. While other members pursued solo careers, Bell Biv DeVoe took a different approach, fusing hard-hitting beats with smooth vocals and edgy lyrics, an idea encouraged by legendary producers Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis and Louil Silas Jr. They tapped into the emerging New Jack Swing movement, enlisting Dr. Freeze and Hank Shocklee of The Bomb Squad to craft a sound that was both radio-friendly and street-approved.
The album’s title track, “Poison,” became an instant classic, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and dominating clubs and airwaves with its infectious hook and booming production. The track’s warning—“Never trust a big butt and a smile”—became one of the most quoted lyrics of the era.
Other standout singles, including “Do Me!”, “B.B.D. (I Thought It Was Me)?” and “When Will I See You Smile Again?” showcased the group’s versatility, from flirtatious party anthems to heartfelt slow jams. The project was a massive success, going quadruple platinum and solidifying Bell Biv DeVoe’s status as a pioneer of a new R&B sound that bridged the gap between hip-hop and traditional soul music.
Beyond its commercial success, Poison left a cultural imprint that still resonates today. Its fusion of rap and R&B laid the foundation for future artists, influencing everyone from Boyz II Men to TLC. Even decades later, the title track remains a staple at parties and celebrations, proving that the album’s impact has stood the test of time.
As we celebrate 35 years of Poison, it’s clear that Bell Biv DeVoe’s debut wasn’t just a spin-off from New Edition but a groundbreaking project that helped redefine contemporary R&B.